Drotrecogin Alfa (Injection)

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

Treats an infection in the blood called sepsis.

Brand Name(s):

Xigris
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to drotrecogin alfa, or if you have recently had a stroke, severe head injury, brain tumor, or any type of bleeding.

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.

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 also using aspirin, abciximab (Reopro®), eptifibatide (Integrilin®), tirofiban (Aggrastat®), or blood thinners (warfarin, Coumadin®).

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.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other 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.

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 face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Blood in your urine or stools
• Coughing up blood
• Severe headaches
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.