Susoctocog alfa (NovoSeven® RT) is a recombinant human coagulation factor VIIa (rFVIIa) used in the treatment of bleeding episodes in adults and children with hemophilia A or B with inhibitors, and in adults with acquired hemophilia A. It is the first and only recombinant FVIIa treatment approved for the treatment and control of bleeding episodes in these populations. Susoctocog alfa works by increasing the activity of Factor VII, a naturally occurring protein in the body that helps with blood clotting. It is administered as an intravenous injection.
Susoctocog alfa, sold under the brand name Obizur, is a medication used to treat a specific condition:
- Acquired hemophilia A (AHA): This is a rare bleeding disorder in adults where the body develops antibodies that attack factor VIII, a protein crucial for blood clotting. Susoctocog alfa replaces the missing functional factor VIII, enabling proper blood clotting and controlling bleeding episodes.
Here's a breakdown of how Susoctocog alfa works:
- Mechanism of action: Susoctocog alfa is a recombinant, B-domain deleted, porcine sequence antihemophilic factor VIII. This means it's a lab-made version of factor VIII, slightly altered from the human form (porcine sequence) and missing a specific part (B-domain). This modification makes it less susceptible to being inactivated by the antibodies present in AHA patients.
- Administration: Susoctocog alfa is administered intravenously, meaning it's injected into a vein.
Some additional information to know about Susoctocog alfa:
- Approval: It was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2014 and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in November 2015.
- Efficacy and safety: Studies have shown Susoctocog alfa to be effective and generally well-tolerated for treating bleeding episodes in AHA patients.
- Dosage: The dosage is determined by the doctor based on individual needs and factors like weight and severity of bleeding.
Important to remember:
- Susoctocog alfa is only for adults with AHA and not for other types of hemophilia or bleeding disorders.
- It should be used under the supervision of a doctor experienced in treating hemophilia.
- Like any medication, Susoctocog alfa can have side effects, so it's crucial to discuss these with your doctor before starting treatment.