Defitelio
Generic name:defibrotide [ de-FYE-broe-tide ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous coagulation modifiers
What is Defitelio?
Defitelio works by increasing the breakdown of clots in the blood.
Defitelio is used to treat severe veno-occlusive disease (VOD) in adults and children who have undergone chemotherapy and a stem-cell transplant. VOD happens when blood vessels in the liver become blocked, which decreases blood flow and can lead to liver damage.
Defitelio may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Defitelio if you are allergic to it, or if:
you have active bleeding;
you also take a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven); or
you use any medication to treat or dissolve blood clots such as streptokinase or urokinase.
To make sure Defitelio is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
a bleeding or blood clotting disorder.
It is not known whether Defitelio will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether defibrotide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How is Defitelio given?
Defitelio is injected into a vein through an IV. This medicine must be given slowly, and the IV infusion can last at least 2 hours.
You may be shown how to use an IV at home. Do not give yourself this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used.
Defitelio is usually given for at least 21 days, to a maximum of 60 days if symptoms have not fully improved.
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Defitelio must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.
Do not mix Defitelio with other medicines in the same IV line. Follow your doctor's instructions about flushing your IV...
