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Hemophilia is not one disease but rather one of a group of inherited bleeding disorders that cause abnormal or exaggerated bleeding and poor blood clotting. The term is most commonly used to refer to two specific conditions known as hemophilia A and hemophilia B, which will be the main subjects of this article. Hemophilia A and B are distinguished by the specific gene that is mutated (altered to become defective) and codes for a defective clotting factor (protein) in each disease. Rarely, hemophilia C is encountered, but its effect on clotting is far less pronounced than A or B.
Hemophilia A and B are inherited in an X-linked recessive genetic pattern and are therefore much more common in males. This pattern of inheritance means that a given gene on the X chromosome expresses itself only when there is no normal gene present. For example, a boy has only one X chromosome, so a boy with hemophilia has the defective gene on his...
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
DESMOPRESSIN 1.5 MG/ML SPRAY - NASAL
(dess-mow-PRESS-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Stimate
USES: Desmopressin is used in people with certain bleeding problems (hemophilia A, type 1 von Willebrand's disease) to control bleeding caused by surgery, injuries, or heavy menstrual periods. This medication is a man-made form of a certain substance in the body called vasopressin that helps with normal blood clotting.
HOW TO USE: Read the patient instructions that come with this product before you start using desmopressin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Before using, follow the instructions on how to properly prime the bottle. Spray this medication in the nose as directed by your doctor. If the dose is more than 1 spray, spray half the dose in each nostril. For example, if the dose is 2 sprays, give 1 spray in each nostril.
Keep track of the number of sprays used from the container. Discard the container after you have used the number of sprays specified on the package.
If this medication is used by a child, a parent or other responsible adult should supervise and help the child use this medication properly.
Limit drinking of water and other fluids while using this medication, especially in children and older adults. Consult your doctor for details. If you find that you are drinking more fluids than directed, tell your doctor immediately. Your treatment will need to be adjusted. (See also Side Effects and Precautions sections.)
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. You may need to use another dose if your doctor directs you to do so. This medication is not used on a regular schedule. Do not use more desmopressin or use it more often or for longer than prescribed.
If using before surgery, give the dose 2 hours before the procedure as directed.
Tell your doctor if your bleeding is not controlled.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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