WARNING

Emicizumab-kxwh injection is a medication used to prevent or reduce bleeding episodes in individuals with hemophilia A, a genetic disorder where blood doesn’t clot normally. While generally effective, like any medication, Emicizumab-kxwh injection carries some risks:

• Thrombotic Events: Emicizumab-kxwh can increase the risk of blood clots (thrombotic events) in some individuals, particularly those with a history of blood clotting disorders or cardiovascular issues.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to Emicizumab-kxwh, which can range from mild to severe and may require medical attention.
• Neutralizing Antibodies: There is a risk that the body may produce neutralizing antibodies against Emicizumab-kxwh, which can reduce its effectiveness in preventing bleeding episodes.
• Interference with Clotting Tests: Emicizumab-kxwh can interfere with certain laboratory tests used to measure blood clotting, which may affect the accuracy of these tests.
• Injection Site Reactions: Mild to moderate reactions at the injection site, such as pain, swelling, or redness, may occur.

It’s essential for individuals receiving Emicizumab-kxwh to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider for any signs of adverse reactions or complications. As with any medication, the benefits of treatment should be weighed against the potential risks, and patients should discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Emicizumab-kxwh injection is prescribed for individuals with hemophilia A, a genetic disorder characterized by a deficiency of clotting factor VIII. It is used for both prophylaxis (prevention) and treatment of bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia A, including those with factor VIII inhibitors.

How should this medicine be used?

Emicizumab-kxwh injection is typically used as a prophylactic (preventive) treatment for individuals with hemophilia A. Here’s a general overview of how Emicizumab-kxwh injection is used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Emicizumab-kxwh injection varies depending on factors such as the patient’s weight, age, and severity of hemophilia A. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Frequency: Emicizumab-kxwh injection is usually administered once weekly for the first 4 weeks of treatment (the loading dose period). After the loading dose period, maintenance dosing is typically administered once every 2 weeks or once every 4 weeks, depending on the individual’s treatment plan and response to the medication.
• Administration: Emicizumab-kxwh injection is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It’s essential to rotate injection sites and follow proper injection techniques to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
• Preparation: Before administration, Emicizumab-kxwh injection should be allowed to reach room temperature for about 30 minutes. Do not shake the medication. Inspect the solution for particulate matter or discoloration before administration. If any abnormalities are observed, do not use the medication and consult your healthcare provider.
• Storage: Emicizumab-kxwh injection should be stored in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect the medication from light by keeping it in its original carton.
• Monitoring: Patients receiving Emicizumab-kxwh injection should be closely monitored by their healthcare provider for any signs of adverse reactions, changes in bleeding patterns, or development of neutralizing antibodies.
• Training: Patients or caregivers should receive proper training from healthcare professionals on how to administer Emicizumab-kxwh injections correctly and safely. This includes understanding dosage, injection techniques, and proper storage and disposal procedures.

It’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of Emicizumab-kxwh injection and to contact them with any questions or concerns about its administration.

Other uses for this medicine

Emicizumab-kxwh injection is primarily used for the treatment of hemophilia A, and its use for other medical conditions is limited. It is essential to follow the prescribing healthcare provider’s instructions and use Emicizumab-kxwh only for the purpose it is prescribed for.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Thrombotic Events: Individuals receiving Emicizumab-kxwh should be monitored closely for signs of thrombotic events, such as blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. Those with a history of thrombotic events or at increased risk for thrombosis may require careful assessment before starting treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: Patients should be monitored for allergic reactions or hypersensitivity reactions during and after administration of Emicizumab-kxwh. Signs of allergic reactions may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of these symptoms occur.
• Neutralizing Antibodies: There is a risk of developing neutralizing antibodies against Emicizumab-kxwh, which can reduce its effectiveness in preventing bleeding episodes. Patients should be monitored for the development of neutralizing antibodies, particularly those who have previously received factor VIII inhibitors.
• Interference with Clotting Tests: Emicizumab-kxwh can interfere with laboratory tests used to measure blood clotting, such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT). Healthcare providers should be aware of this potential interference when interpreting clotting test results.
• Injection Site Reactions: Patients may experience injection site reactions, such as pain, swelling, or redness, following administration of Emicizumab-kxwh. These reactions are usually mild to moderate in severity and resolve on their own. Patients should be instructed on proper injection techniques and encouraged to rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
• Pediatric Use: Emicizumab-kxwh can be used in children with hemophilia A, but dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the child’s weight and age. Pediatric patients should be monitored carefully for safety and efficacy.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Emicizumab-kxwh during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the potential risks and benefits of treatment with their healthcare provider.

It’s essential for patients to discuss any concerns or questions about Emicizumab-kxwh and its potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Emicizumab-kxwh injection. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet as recommended by healthcare providers is essential for overall well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Emicizumab-kxwh injection. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet as recommended by healthcare providers is essential for overall well-being.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Emicizumab-kxwh injection, like any medication, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site.
• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Upper respiratory tract infection

Serious side effects of Emicizumab-kxwh are rare but may include:

• Thrombotic events: Blood clots in the veins or arteries, which may lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart attack.
• Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions including rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis.

It’s important to promptly report any side effects to your healthcare provider. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction or a thrombotic event, seek immediate medical attention. Your healthcare provider can help assess the risks and benefits of Emicizumab-kxwh and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Store Emicizumab-kxwh injection in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
• Keep the medication in its original carton to protect it from light.
• Do not use Emicizumab-kxwh injection if it has been frozen or if the expiration date has passed.
• If you need to transport Emicizumab-kxwh injection, it can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for up to 7 days. Avoid exposure to excessive heat or sunlight.
• Dispose of used syringes and needles in a puncture-resistant container as per local regulations. Do not recycle needles or syringes.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of Emicizumab-kxwh injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• There is no specific antidote for Emicizumab-kxwh overdose. Treatment would be supportive and symptomatic.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your condition while on Emicizumab-kxwh treatment.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are receiving Emicizumab-kxwh injection, as it may affect certain laboratory tests.
• Avoid getting Emicizumab-kxwh injection into your eyes. If accidental exposure occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Carry identification (such as a medical alert bracelet or card) indicating that you are receiving Emicizumab-kxwh injection, in case of emergency situations.
• Follow proper injection techniques and rotate injection sites to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
• Keep Emicizumab-kxwh injection out of the reach of children and pets.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Emicizumab-kxwh injection, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information and guidance.