Sometimes we or a loved one have to undergo a major treatment like a stem cell transplant due to a serious illness like cancer. Even though such treatments are successful, sometimes they can cause certain complications. Today we are talking about a special drug that is given to treat such a serious, but uncommon complication. That is the vaccine called Defibrotide.
What is Defibrotide and what is it used for?
Simply put, Defibrotide is a special injection. It is used to treat a serious condition that occurs after a stem cell transplant, due to blockage of the very small blood vessels in the liver . Medically, this condition is called Veno-occlusive Disease (VOD) or Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome (SOS).
Imagine that there are tiny blood vessels that flow through our liver. After a major treatment like a stem cell transplant, sometimes these vessels can become blocked. This can have a significant impact on the functioning of the liver. At that time, a drug called Defibrotide helps to reopen these blocked blood vessels and reduce the damage to the liver.
The important thing is, this is not a medicine you can take home. It is given as an infusion in a hospital, under the full supervision of doctors and nurses .
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
Before you or your patient begins treatment with Defibrotide, it is very important to tell your doctor about your complete health history. In particular, you should be aware of the following conditions:
| Situation you need to report | Why is that? |
|---|---|
| If you have a bleeding disorder. | This is especially important if you already have a condition, as defibrotide can increase the risk of bleeding. |
| If you are taking other medications that thin the blood or prevent blood clotting (blood thinners). | The doctor should be aware of this, as using these medications together can cause severe bleeding. |
| If you have an allergic reaction to Defibrotide or any other medicine, food, or dye. | This is essential to prevent allergic reactions. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. | You should discuss with your doctor how this medication will affect the mother and baby. |
Medicines that should not be used with Defibrotide
Caution: When taking Defibrotide, other medications that prevent blood clotting or thin the blood, such as Heparin and Alteplase , can cause severe bleeding . Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements.
Possible side effects
Like any medication, Defibrotide can cause some side effects. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them and notify your medical team immediately if you experience any symptoms.
| Side effect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor or nurse immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Signs of Bleeding | Blood in the stool or black stools, red or dark brown urine, vomiting something that looks like coffee grounds, red spots on the skin, unusual bleeding from the eyes, gums, or nose. |
| Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure | Dizziness, blurred vision, fainting, feeling unusually tired or weak. |
| Signs of Infection | Fever or feeling cold, cough, sore throat. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Vomiting | Vomiting. |
What to do if the dose increases (overdose)?
Since this medicine is given in a hospital, under medical supervision, in the most accurate amount, the chance of an overdose is very low. The medical team is always concerned about it. But if there is any suspicion of such a thing, the doctor or nurse at the hospital will take the necessary steps. Usually, the official place to get advice in our country in case of any poisoning is the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . But in case of something like this happening in a hospital, the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) is activated immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Defibrotide is a special injection given into a vein that treats a serious liver complication that can occur after a stem cell transplant.
- It is essential to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, and any medical conditions you have.
- The main risk during this treatment is bleeding . Therefore, if you notice even the slightest sign of bleeding, inform the medical team immediately.
- This medicine is only given in a hospital and is not a medicine for home use.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication or treatment, please do not hesitate to ask your doctor or nursing staff.
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