Hemlibra (Emicizumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Hemlibra Used For?
Hemlibra is a medication that helps prevent bleeding in individuals with haemophilia A, a condition where the blood does not clot properly.
Primary Uses
Hemlibra is primarily used for routine prophylaxis to prevent bleeding episodes in patients with haemophilia A, regardless of the presence of inhibitors.
How It Works
Hemlibra mimics the function of factor VIII by binding to clotting factors, promoting blood clotting even in the presence of inhibitors.
Good to know: Hemlibra is not addictive.
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How to Take Hemlibra
Hemlibra is administered through subcutaneous injections. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how to inject it correctly.
Dosage Instructions
The dosage of Hemlibra is based on your weight. For the first four weeks, the dose is 3 mg per kg of body weight once a week. After that, the frequency may change to once every two weeks or once every four weeks, depending on your doctor's advice.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, inject it as soon as you remember, but do not double the dose if it's close to the next scheduled injection.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed injection.
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:
- Injection site reactions
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash or hives
- Fever
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Angioedema
- Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)
- Blood clots in small blood vessels
- Severe skin tissue damage
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind when using Hemlibra.
Who Should Not Take Hemlibra
Do not use Hemlibra if you have a known allergy to emicizumab or any of its ingredients, including proteins of hamster origin.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any other medical conditions or medications you are taking with your doctor, especially if you have haemophilia A with inhibitors.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding to understand the risks and benefits.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Hemlibra, affecting its efficacy.
- FEIBA-NF (Factor VIII inhibitor bypassing fraction)
- NovoSeven (recombinant coagulation factor VIIa)
- Any form of factor VIII
Alcohol & Driving
Hemlibra is not expected to impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Hemlibra.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious when driving or using machinery until you know how Hemlibra affects you.
Storage
Store Hemlibra in a refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C, protected from light. Do not shake or freeze the vial. If kept at room temperature, it should not exceed 7 days.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hemlibra starts to work by mimicking factor VIII to help with blood clotting, but the exact time may vary by individual.
There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned, but consult your doctor for personalized advice.
No, Hemlibra is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Hemlibra without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to increased bleeding episodes.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Hemlibra.
Weight gain is not listed as a side effect of Hemlibra.
Elderly patients should discuss their health conditions with their doctor before taking Hemlibra.
Inject the missed dose as soon as you remember, but do not double the 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.