Drotrecogin Alfa (droe-tre-KOH-jen AL-fa)

Treats an infection in the blood called sepsis.

Brand Name(s):

Xigris

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• You will receive this medicine while you are in the hospital. The medicine is given slowly over several days, so the needle will remain in place during that entire time.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using abciximab (Reopro®), eptifibatide (Integrilin®), tirofiban (Aggrastat®), a blood thinner (such as warfarin or Coumadin®), aspirin, streptokinase (Streptase®), or other medicine that affects blood platelets (such as dextran, dipyridamole, hydroxychloroquine, ibuprofen, indomethacin, phenylbutazone, Advil®, Aggrenox®, InfeD®, Indocin®, Motrin®, Persantine®, or Plaquenil®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a bleeding disorder, liver disease, or a history of blood clots, stroke, aneurysm, or bleeding in your stomach.
• You may bleed and bruise more easily while you are using this medicine. Be extra careful to avoid injuries until the effects of the medicine have worn off. Stay away from situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers. Avoid picking your nose. If you need to blow your nose, blow it gently.
• Watch for any bleeding from open areas such as around the injection site. Also check for blood in your urine or stool. If you have any bleeding or injuries, tell your doctor right away.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blood in your urine or stools.
• Coughing up blood.
• Pain, itching, burning, or bleeding where the needle is placed.
• Severe headache.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.