A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Hemlibra (emicizumab) is a medication approved for the prevention and reduction of bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia A with factor VIII inhibitors. As a bispecific monoclonal antibody, Hemlibra brings a new approach to treating hemophilia A by mimicking the function of factor VIII, a crucial blood-clotting protein. This innovative treatment is designed for subcutaneous use and has been shown to significantly decrease the frequency of bleeding episodes, thus enhancing the quality of life for those affected by this chronic genetic disorder.
Before you buy Hemlibra, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Hemlibra cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Generic Name | Emicizumab |
Brand Name | Hemlibra |
License | FDA Approved |
Legal Status | Prescription Only |
Bioavailability | Not specified |
Elimination Half-Life | ~28 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 30 mg/mL, 60 mg/0.4 mL, 105 mg/0.7 mL, and 150 mg/mL |
Pregnancy | Not enough data; consult a healthcare provider |
Mechanism of Action | Bispecific antibody bridging activated factor IX and factor X |
ATC Code | B02BX06 |
DrugBank | DB13927 |
KEGG | D10912 |
Routes of Administration | Subcutaneous injection |
Hemlibra 150 mg is administered through subcutaneous injection and is intended for use under the guidance of healthcare professionals. It is crucial to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider, including the recommended dosage and frequency.
The active ingredient in Hemlibra is Emicizumab.
Be aware of signs of serious allergic reactions, including hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Although rare, Hemlibra can increase the risk of blood clots. Report any unusual symptoms such as sudden severe headaches, chest pain, or leg swelling to a healthcare professional immediately.
Regular monitoring of blood clotting function and platelet counts is recommended to detect potential complications early.
Hemlibra may interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of serious side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Specifically, avoid using any other treatments for hemophilia A unless directed by your doctor.
While Hemlibra has been found to be safe and effective for many patients, some may experience side effects. Common side effects include:
What is the drug HEMLIBRA used for?
HEMLIBRA (emicizumab-kxwh) is used for routine prophylaxis to prevent or reduce the frequency of bleeding episodes in adults and children with hemophilia A with or without factor VIII inhibitors.
How does HEMLIBRA work?
HEMLIBRA works by acting as a bridge, bringing factor IXa and factor X together to allow the blood coagulation process to continue without needing to replace factor VIII.
Is HEMLIBRA a factor VIII?
No, HEMLIBRA is not a factor VIII. It is a monoclonal antibody that performs the same function as factor VIII but is different from factor VIII.
What are the disadvantages of HEMLIBRA?
The common side effects of HEMLIBRA include injection site reactions, headache, and joint pain.
How effective is HEMLIBRA?
In clinical studies lasting six months or longer, HEMLIBRA reduced the number of total bleeds by at least 94 percent in people without factor VIII inhibitors and at least 80 percent in people with factor VIII inhibitors.
How long do you take HEMLIBRA?
The duration of HEMLIBRA treatment is decided between you and your doctor. The median time that people took HEMLIBRA in clinical trials was about 120 weeks, or about 2 years and 4 months.
How is HEMLIBRA administered?
HEMLIBRA is administered by subcutaneous injection by a healthcare professional.
Is HEMLIBRA approved by the FDA?
Yes, HEMLIBRA was first approved by the FDA in 2017 for people with hemophilia A with factor VIII inhibitors. In 2018, the FDA expanded its approval to include people with hemophilia A who don’t have factor VIII inhibitors.
Does HEMLIBRA need to be refrigerated?
Yes, HEMLIBRA should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). It should not be frozen or shaken.
What is the active ingredient in HEMLIBRA?
The active ingredient in HEMLIBRA is emicizumab-kxwh.