Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Antihemophilic Factor, Human Injection 1 unit (ANTIHEMOPHILIC FACTOR (FACTOR VIII), HUMAN - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Follow package direction for diluting medicine with IV fluids or as instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Some brands of this medicine must be stored in the refrigerator while others may be kept at room temperature. Please speak with your pharmacist about how you should store your medicine.

Do not freeze the medicine.

If the medicine becomes frozen, you will need to throw it away.

Do not store in the bathroom.

Protect medicine from light.

If your medicine is stored in the refrigerator, take it out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Discard any unused, mixed medicine after 3 hours in the refrigerator.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to latex.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Brand Name(s): Hemofil, Koate, Monoclate

Generic Name: Antihemophilic Factor, Human

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • nausea
  • sudden change or loss of vision

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • increased risk of bleeding
  • chest pain
  • coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • fainting
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
  • shortness of breath
  • dark, tarry stool
  • yeast infection of mouth

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.