This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Factor VII  was initially approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on March 25, 1999. 

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Factor VII is a blood clotting protein that plays a pivotal role in coagulation. When tissue damage occurs, it interacts with tissue factor (TF) at the injury site, forming the FVIIa-TF complex. This complex acts as an enzyme, triggering a series of reactions that culminate in thrombin formation and the subsequent creation of a blood clot. This mechanism is essential for stopping bleeding after vascular injury.

Uses of undefined

Factor VII is primarily used to treat bleeding disorders. Its key applications include managing bleeding episodes in hemophilia patients with inhibitors, addressing congenital Factor VII deficiency, controlling bleeding during surgery and trauma, managing acquired Factor VII deficiency associated with certain medical conditions, and occasionally, as part of treatment strategies for intracranial hemorrhage.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Factor VII concentrates are typically administered intravenously (IV) to individuals with bleeding disorders. A healthcare provider should determine the specific dosing and administration details based on the patient's condition and needs.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Factor VII is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and arterial thrombosis.  Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to this medication have been reported. When using this for intracranial hemorrhage, there is a concern of exacerbating thrombosis within the brain's blood vessels. 

Precautions

Patients with a history of thromboembolic events, underlying cardiovascular conditions, or other risk factors for clot formation should be carefully assessed before using Factor VII. Patients should be monitored for signs of hypersensitivity during and after administration. Immediate treatment should be available in case of an allergic reaction. Neurological monitoring and consultation with a neurologist or neurosurgeon may be done.

Side Effects

Factor VII can have several potential side effects, ranging from common to serious. Common side effects may include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and injection site reactions. However, more serious side effects can occur, including thromboembolic events (such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism), hypersensitivity reactions (anaphylaxis), arterial thrombosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and bleeding.

Word Of Advice

Watch for allergic reactions and the risk of clotting events after taking Factor VII, and closely monitor the medication's dosage and its effects on blood clotting. Special care is needed when using this medication in patients with liver problems, kidney issues, heart conditions, or a history of blood clots. Extra attention should be given to children and older adults. It's important to use the medication correctly, store it properly, and educate patients on its use. Emergency plans should be in place for unexpected issues. Also, consider factors like the development of antibodies and genetic variations in patients. Each patient is unique, so there should be communication between the healthcare provider and the patient to achieve the best results.

Frequently Asked Question

References

  1. Novo Nordisk A/S, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on 13 Jun 2023] [ Accessed on 2nd September 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7927.pdf
  2. LFB S.A. Puteaux, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Dec 2022] [ Accessed on 2nd September 2023],https://www.fda.gov/media/136610/download
  3. Katherine F Croom, Paul L McCormack; Recombinant factor VIIa (eptacog alfa): a review of its use in congenital hemophilia with inhibitors, acquired hemophilia, and other congenital bleeding disorders; BioDrugs; Published on 2008; Accessed on 02/09/2023; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18345709/

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.