What is factor XIII?
Factor XIII (thirteen) is a naturally occurring protein within the blood that assists the blood in making clots. The absence of factors that clot can lead to bleeding that is not controlled since the blood does not effectively clot. Factor XIII functions by temporarily raising the levels of these factors in the blood, which aids in the process of clotting. In fact, factor XIII can be used to reduce bleeding episodes in patients suffering from an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a lack or deficiency of factor XIII. Factor XIII cannot treat bleeding that has already started. Factor XIII could be utilized for other purposes not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects of Factor XIII
Contact emergency medical assistance. Get medical attention if you show symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, like hives, trouble breathing, feeling lightheaded or achy, or a swollen mouth, lips, or throat. Factor XIII can cause severe adverse effects. If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right once:
- New or more severe bleeding episodes.
- Unusually bruises.
- Indications of signs of stroke—sudden weakening or numbness (especially in one part of your body) or a sudden, severe headache and slurred speech. issues with balance or vision.
- Indications that a blood clot has formed inside the lung: chest pain, rapid breathing, wheezing and rapid breathing, and coughing up blood.
- Indications that a blood clot has formed within your leg, such as swelling, pain, or warmth in both legs.
Common negative side effects of factor XIII could include:
- Fever, chills, and flu symptoms.
- Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea.
- Headache.
- Joint pain.
- Mild itchy rash and itching.
- Signs of a cold, like nasal stuffiness, sneezing, and a sore throat.
This is not a comprehensive list of all the side effects. Other side effects could be present. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
It is not recommended to use factor XIII if you are allergic to any medication that is made from human plasma.
Before you take this drug
It is not recommended to use this medication if you are sensitive to factor XIII or any other medicine that is created using human plasma. To ensure factor XIII is appropriate for you, inform your physician if you suffer from:
- Liver disease.
It is unclear if factor XIII can affect a baby who is not yet born. Inform your doctor if you are expecting or planning to become pregnant while taking this medication. It isn't known if factor XIII is absorbed into breast milk or whether it can harm nursing babies. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding a child. Factor XIII is derived from consuming the blood plasma of humans (part of the blood) that could contain viruses and other infectious agents. Plasma donated to the clinic is evaluated and treated to lower the possibility of it containing infectious agents; however, there is a slight chance that it can be a carrier of the disease. Discuss with your physician the potential risks and benefits of this drug.
How to take factor XIII?
Factor XIII is delivered into a vein via an IV. It is possible to be taught how to administer an IV at home. Do not inject yourself with factor XIII in case you aren't sure how to administer the injection, and safely dispose of any catheters for IV use and other tools that are used to inject the medication. Factor XIII is generally given every 4 weeks. Follow the instructions of your doctor for dosing with care.
Factor XIII is a powder-based medicine that needs to be mixed with liquid (diluent) before use. If you're taking injectables yourself, make sure that you are aware of how to prepare and maintain the medication. Let the mixture get to room temperature before injecting the medicine. Do not warm the medicine prior to using it. Factor XIII ought to have a clear or slight yellow hue. Don't use the drug if it has changed color or contains particles. To obtain a fresh prescription, contact your doctor. Avoid mixing factor XIII in conjunction with other injectable medicines in this vein. Each bottle of this medication is intended for use once only. Dispose of it after one dose, regardless of whether there's still some remaining medicine in it after injecting the dose. Use a disposable needle only once. Make sure you follow any state or local regulations regarding the disposal of needles and syringes that are no longer in use. Make use of a puncture-proof "sharps" disposal container (ask your pharmacist for one and how to dispose of the container). Keep the container out of the reach of dogs and children. When using factor XIII, you might need to conduct periodic blood testing. Storage of unmixed factor XIII in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in its original container at all times.
The unopened vials of factor XIII can be stored at room temperature for up to six months in a dry environment away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not freeze an unopened vial that's been kept at room temperature. Mixing factor XIII in a diluting agent stored at room temperature, then use it within four hours. Do not freeze or refrigerate. Get rid of any factor that is not used XIII once the deadline for expiration on the label has expired.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Contact your physician for advice in case you missed the dose of factor XIII.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any restrictions on your food, drink, or activity.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications can interfere with factor XIII, such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Be sure to inform your health professionals about the medicines you take now and any medication you stop or start using.
