What is Helixate FS?
Helixate (clotting factor) is a protein that occurs naturally in the blood. The clotting factor VIII is deficient in people with hemophilia. This medicine is recombinant and replaces the clotting factor VIII in the blood.Helixate is given to children and adults with hemophilia A.Children with hemophilia A who do not have joint damage can benefit from recombinant helixate.Von Willebrand's disease is not treated with recombinant helixate.Jivi has been approved only for those over the age of 12.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for recombinant helixate.
Side effects of Helixate FS
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention: hives; itching; rash; numbness; tingling; fever; dizziness; nausea; chest tightness; wheezing; difficulty breathing; pale or cold skin; feeling lightheaded; fainting; swelling on your face, lips, throat, or tongue.
Helixate FS may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Increased bleeding episodes
- Any bleeding that won't stop
- Chest pain;
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
Helixate FS can cause the following side effects:
- Nose bleeds;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- Headache, dizziness;
- Joint or muscle pain
- Rash;
- Flushing (sudden heat, redness, or tingly sensation);
- Fever, chills;
- Cough;
- A weakness
Pain, swelling, itching or redness at the site of injection are possible side effects. There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, speak to your physician. Alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report them.
Similar/related drugs
Tranexamic Acid, Desmopressin, DDAVP, Cyklokapron, Roctavian, and Antihemophilic Factor
Warnings
Follow all instructions carefully regarding how to mix Helixate and store it. Storage instructions may vary between brands of Helixate.Helixate may become less effective if your body develops antibodies. If this medication seems to be less effective at controlling bleeding, call your doctor.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if you've ever experienced a severe reaction to helixate Fs or if your allergies include mouse or hamster protein. If you have an allergy to beef proteins, do not use the Recombinant brand.
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Heart disease
- A latex allergy,
- If you've ever been told you have factor viii inhibitors,
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.
How to take Helixate FS?
A blood test will be performed by your doctor to ensure that recombinant helixate is the best treatment for you if you have a clotting factor deficit.Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label.Your doctor might occasionally adjust your dosage. Check the strength of your medicine on the label.An injection of recombinant helixate is administered into the vein. Your healthcare provider may give you your first dose and teach you how to use the medication properly.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medicine. Before using recombinant helixate, it must be mixed with a liquid. If you are unsure of how to mix or store the medicine, ask your pharmacist or doctor.Wash your hands prior to preparing your injection and administering it.Only prepare an injection when you are prepared to administer it. If the color of your medicine has changed or if it contains particles, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist.
The dose of recombinant helixate is based on your weight. Your dosage needs may change as you gain or lose weight.Medical tests will be required frequently.You may develop antibodies against helixate FS. This will make it less effective. If Helixate FS is less effective at controlling bleeding, call your doctor.Refill your prescription before you run completely out. When traveling, make sure to bring enough medication and injection supplies.Helixate FS recombinant, unmixed, should be stored in its original packaging in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Remove the medicine from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature.It is possible to store unmixed helixate at room temperature. However, you should not put it in the fridge. Certain brands of this medication can only be stored at room temperature for a limited number of months or until expiration (whichever is first).Follow all instructions on how to store the medicine. Storage instructions may vary between brands of Helixate FS recombinant.Store away from bright lights. Use before the expiration dates printed on the label.Use the mixture within 3 hours after mixing the medicine with the diluent. Do not store it in the refrigerator.Each vial is only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside.Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of reach of pets and children.Wear or carry medical identification in case of an emergency to alert others that you suffer from a bleeding disorder or blood clotting disorder.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a regular dosing regimen since recombinant helixate is only used as needed. You may have to take the medication for a few days to stop bleeding. Continue to use the medication as directed, and inform your doctor if bleeding persists.Do not wait to take a missed dose. Never take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect a poisonous situation and need immediate medical advice or seek immediate medical care.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also affect recombinant helixate. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.
