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How does it work?

Factor VIIa (activated Factor VII) is a naturally-occurring protein which is essential for the process of blood clotting. 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. Patients with haemophilia lack factors VIII or IX and usually receive one of these as replacement treatment. Certain patients can have inhibitors to coagulation factors VIII or IX, which render them inactive. In these cases factor VIIa will overcome this problem and restore clotting function.

What is it used for?

- Haemophilia A
- 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.

Not to be used in

- Allergy to mouse, hamster or bovine 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

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.