BeneFIX (Nonacog Alfa)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is BeneFIX Used For?
BeneFIX is a medication that helps manage bleeding in patients with haemophilia B, a condition caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor IX.
Primary Uses
BeneFIX is primarily used to control and treat bleeding episodes and to prevent bleeding in individuals with haemophilia B.
How It Works
BeneFIX replaces the missing factor IX in the blood, allowing for proper blood clotting.
Good to know: BeneFIX is not addictive.
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How to Take BeneFIX
BeneFIX is administered through an injection into the veins, typically after being prepared from a powder.
Dosage Instructions
BeneFIX is available in five different dosage strengths, and your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose based on your needs.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your schedule.
Important: Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Headache
- Runny or blocked nose
- Light-headedness
- Fever
- Chills
- Flushing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Feeling tired or drowsy
- Discomfort or swelling at the injection site
- Altered taste
- Coughing
- Burning sensation in the jaw or skull
- Changes in vision
- Tremor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reactions such as skin rash
- Itching
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Dizziness
- Hives
- Faintness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen face
- Blurred vision
Important Warnings
There are important safety considerations to keep in mind while using BeneFIX.
Who Should Not Take BeneFIX
Do not use BeneFIX if you have a known allergy to nonacog alfa, hamster proteins, or any other ingredients in the medication.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have liver disease, are at risk for other clotting disorders, or have had recent surgery.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it is unclear how BeneFIX may affect you or your baby.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with BeneFIX, affecting its effectiveness.
Alcohol & Driving
BeneFIX is not expected to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Alcohol
No specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption while taking BeneFIX are mentioned.
Driving and Operating Machinery
BeneFIX does not affect your ability to drive or use machinery.
Storage
Store BeneFIX in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C. It can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 6 months, but cannot be returned to refrigeration once at room temperature.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of BeneFIX, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
BeneFIX works by replacing the missing factor IX in the blood, allowing for proper blood clotting, but the exact time to see effects can vary.
There are no specific instructions regarding food interactions with BeneFIX.
No, BeneFIX is not considered addictive.
Do not stop using BeneFIX without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to uncontrolled bleeding.
There are no specific warnings against alcohol consumption while using BeneFIX.
There is no information indicating that BeneFIX causes weight gain.
Consult your doctor for advice on the safety of BeneFIX in elderly patients.
If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as you remember, or skip it if it's close to your next scheduled dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.