Other Treatments

There are other treatment options available.

Desmopressin

Desmopressin is an injectable, non-blood product that may be used to treat small bleeds in people with mild hemophilia A. It helps by copying the role of the natural hormone that releases Factor VIII and Von Willebrand Factor from the cells lining the blood vessels. (Von Willebrand Factor transports Factor VIII in the bloodstream, to help repair a damaged blood vessel). Desmopressin cannot be used to treat any form of hemophilia B or moderate to severe hemophilia A.

There are some minor side effects with demopressin, including facial flushing, headache, nausea, abdominal cramps, tachycardia (rapid beating of the heart). More uncommon is hypertension and hypotension.  For patients with hypertension their doctor will have to monitor their blood pressure and sodium levels when taking desmopressin.

Tranexamic acid

Tranexamic acid is used as an antifibrinolytic agent (helps a clot stay in place once it is formed). People with a history of, or at risk of thrombosis (formation of unwanted clots in the bloodstream) should not take these drugs. Adverse events may include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and allergic dermatitis.

Topical thrombin and fibrin sealant can be used to control bleeding from a small cut in an accessible area like on a leg or arm, or it can be used after a dental procedure.