Defibrotide is a drug used to treat hepatic veno-occlusive disease, primarily functioning to promote the protection and repair of vascular endothelial cells, and alleviate thrombosis and damage caused by hepatic veno-occlusive disease.
Side Effects of Defibrotide
While defibrotide shows certain efficacy in treating diseases, its use may be accompanied by a series of side effects.
Hypotension
Hypotension is characterized by an abnormally low drop in blood pressure. Defibrotide reduces the burden on the heart by promoting the kidneys to excrete excess salt and water. Excessive use or individual differences in sensitivity may lead to an excessive decrease in blood pressure.
Diarrhea
Defibrotide may cause intestinal dysfunction, resulting in diarrhea. This may be related to the direct stimulation of the intestinal mucosa by the drug or its impact on the balance of intestinal flora.
The adverse reactions of defibrotide involve multiple systems. During use, patients should closely monitor their physical reactions, pay attention to drug interactions, and seek medical attention promptly if discomfort occurs.
How to Take Defibrotide for the Best Effect?
The optimal way to take defibrotide should follow the doctor's detailed guidance and prescription, as the drug's usage and dosage will be adjusted according to the patient's specific situation.
Dosage Determination
The dosage of defibrotide is usually determined based on the patient's weight. The recommended dose is 6.25mg/kg every 6 hours, administered by intravenous infusion over 2 hours.
Treatment Cycle
Treatment with defibrotide should last for at least 21 days. If the signs and symptoms of hepatic VOD (hepatic veno-occlusive disease) have not subsided after 21 days, treatment should continue until VOD resolves, with a maximum duration of 60 days.
Individual differences among patients may affect the dosage of defibrotide. Patients should receive regular evaluations by doctors to monitor treatment effects and possible side effects.
Drug Interactions of Defibrotide
Regarding drug interactions of defibrotide, special attention should be paid to interactions with antithrombotic agents.
Enhancing the Activity of Antithrombotic Drugs
Defibrotide may enhance the activity of antithrombotic drugs by promoting plasmin activity and enhancing the function of tissue plasminogen activators. When using defibrotide, if the patient is receiving other antithrombotic treatments, the patient's bleeding status should be closely monitored.
Increasing the Risk of Bleeding
Defibrotide itself has the effect of promoting fibrinolysis, which can reduce blood viscosity and improve blood circulation. When combined with antithrombotic agents, this effect may further increase the risk of bleeding. Before using defibrotide, a detailed understanding of the patient's medication history, especially the use of antithrombotic drugs, is necessary.
When using the above drugs, special attention should be paid to the patient's medication history and coagulation function, and a personalized treatment plan should be formulated according to the patient's specific situation.
Warm reminder: Patients should strictly follow the doctor's guidance during the use of defibrotide, and not adjust the dosage or change the administration method on their own. If there are any questions or concerns, they should communicate with the doctor in a timely manner.
