Alphanate

Taking factor VIII / VWF complex can raise your risk of getting blood clots. Your risk is higher if you're an older adult or have health conditions such as high blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol. Because of this risk, your provider will check your labs regularly to make sure you don't have too much VWF and factor VIII. Symptoms of a blood clot might be different depending on the location of the clot, but they can include chest pain, difficulty breathing, swelling or warmth in the legs, and weakness of the face, legs, or arms. Call 911 if you have any of the symptoms above.

Factor VIII / VWF complex can damage your red blood cells (RBCs) if you have blood type A, B, or AB, especially if you receive larger or repeated doses of the medication. This is because this medication contains antibodies that can attack the RBCs of people with these blood types, causing your RBCs to fall apart. Your body typically recovers from this side effect once you stop the medication. But if it doesn't, you might need to use a different medication. Let your provider know if you experience symptoms of damaged RBCs including dizziness, weakness, and feeling more tired.

Because factor VIII / VWF complex is made from human blood products, there's a risk that it might contain viruses that can make you sick. But your risk of infection is pretty low because donors of these blood products are screened. Also, there are high manufacturing standards put into place to make sure the viruses are killed or removed. To prevent serious infections in the rare case that your medication is affected, let your provider know right away if you start to feel sick or have symptoms such as feeling confused and anxious, or having trouble maintaining your balance.