Corifact

Corifact is a medication used in the treatment of Factor XIII deficiency, a rare genetic disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot. The active ingredient in Corifact is Factor XIII, a protein that is essential for the final stage of the blood clotting process.

Medical Uses

Corifact is primarily indicated for the routine prophylactic treatment of congenital Factor XIII deficiency. This condition can lead to severe bleeding episodes, including intracranial hemorrhage, muscle hematomas, and prolonged bleeding after surgery or trauma. By supplementing the missing or deficient Factor XIII, Corifact helps to stabilize the formation of blood clots and prevent bleeding complications.

Administration

Corifact is administered intravenously. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the patient's weight, the severity of the deficiency, and the clinical response. Regular monitoring of Factor XIII activity levels is recommended to ensure optimal dosing.

Mechanism of Action

Factor XIII is a transglutaminase enzyme that cross-links fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. This cross-linking stabilizes the clot, making it more resistant to fibrinolysis, the process that breaks down clots. By providing exogenous Factor XIII, Corifact enhances the stability and durability of blood clots in patients with Factor XIII deficiency.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Corifact include headache, nausea, and joint pain. Serious side effects, although rare, can include allergic reactions, thromboembolic events, and the development of inhibitors to Factor XIII.

History

Corifact was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 for the treatment of congenital Factor XIII deficiency. It is manufactured by CSL Behring, a global biopharmaceutical company specializing in plasma-derived therapies.

Related Pages

• Factor XIII deficiency
• Blood clotting
• Intravenous therapy
• Thromboembolism
• CSL Behring

External Links

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