Abstract
Octocog alfa is a glycoprotein which is the biological equivalent of human coagulation factor VIII. It is therefore indicated for the treatment and prophylaxis of bleeding in patients with haemophilia A (congenital factor VIII deficiency).
Octocog alpha belongs to the family of recombinant products (produced by recombinant DNA technology). These represent the currently optimal approach in the treatment of haemophilia and their use eliminates the potential risk of viral or prion infection.
The dose and frequency of administration depend on whether octocog alfa is used to treat or prevent bleeding. One of the unpleasant complications associated with the treatment of haemophilia A is the development of neutralizing antibodies - usually IgG (inhibitors) against factor VIII activity in some patients.
This decreases treatment efficacy and leads to the related loss of control over bleeding.