MONARC-M

Drug Name: MONARC-M

MONARC-M DESCRIPTION:
ANTIHEMOPHILIC FACTOR, HUMAN - INJECTION (AN-tee-he-mow-FILL-ick factor)

COMMON MONARC-M BRAND NAME(S):
Alphanate, Hemofil-M, Koate HP, Nybcen

MONARC-M SIDE EFFECTS:
MONARC-M is generally well tolerated. Mild chills, nausea and irritation at the injection site may occur. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE MONARC-M:
MONARC-M: MONARC-M is given by injection into a vein. The rate of injection depends upon patient response but is generally injected over 5 to 10 minutes. The powder and dissolving fluid should be warmed to room temperature before combining if they were refrigerated. After adding the dissolving fluid, swirl the vial gently to completely dissolve the powder. Do not use the mixed solution if you find any floating particles in it or it discolors. The drug should then be started within 1 to 3 hours depending on the product. It may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. The dose and frequency of use of MONARC-M will be determined by your condition, weight and situation. Follow your doctor's instructions closely and be sure to ask any questions you may have about this therapy.

MONARC-M USES:
Antihemophilic factor is a protein in the blood necessary in forming clots to stop bleeding. MONARC-M is used to temporarily prevent or control bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia A.

MONARC-M PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other illnesses, any allergies (especially to animal proteins). Because MONARC-M is prepared from human blood, there is a risk of contracting a virus from using this. Careful screening of blood donors, special manufacturing methods and FDA-approved tests are all used to reduce this risk. Discuss this with your doctor. You should check your heart rate before and during injection. The dose or rate of infusion may need to be changed if your heart rate is too fast. MONARC-M should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if MONARC-M is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

MONARC-M DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription medications you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

MONARC-M OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusual tiredness; easy bleeding or bruising; or yellowing eyes or skin.

MONARC-M NOTES:
Blood tests will be done frequently to determine dosing and evaluate the effectiveness of MONARC-M.

MISSED MONARC-M DOSE:
It is important that each dose be used as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

MONARC-M STORAGE:
Store the medication according to manufacturer's instructions. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard any unused medication after that time. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.