Benefix

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > B



How does it work?

Factor IX is a naturally-occurring protein which is essential for the process of blood clotting. This medicine is extracted from human plasma and purified by monoclonal antibody techniques. When bleeding occurs the body quickly seals the breaks in blood vessels by forming plugs (clots). A series of clotting proteins is involved in this process. Lack of any one of these clotting factors can lead to uncontrolled bleeding or excessive bruising following injury. Factor IX is absent in people with congenital factor IX deficiency (also known as haemophilia B or Christmas disease). Factor IX fraction is given as replacement treatment to prevent bleeding and bruising in these patients.

What is it used for?

- Haemophilia B also known as Christmas disease

Warning!

- Rarely, anaphylaxis may develop. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction of rapid onset, causing the patient to collapse and require emergency treatment.
- There may be an increased risk of developing a blood clot when taking this medicine.
- There is a small risk of the transmission of viruses to patients from medicines prepared from human blood or plasma. Appropriate hepatitis vaccination is recommended for patient who regularly receive such medicines.

Not to be used in

- Allergy to mouse protein
- Known sensitivity or allergy to any ingredient
- Those with tendencies to form dangerous blood clots

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- The safety of this medicine during breastfeeding has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects