Treatment of von Willebrand disease (VWD) is based on the type of VWD and the severity of the symptoms.
The goal of therapy is to correct the acquired coagulation problem. This is mainly and usually achieved by raising the levels of VWF (von Willebrand factor) and factor VIII (another protein in the bloodstream).
Most cases of VWD are mild, so you may need treatment only if you have abnormal or planned conditions, such as minor surgical procedures, tooth extractions, or after an accident.
If your condition requires treatment, there are several options and medications available.
DDAVP® {Desmopressin Acetate} Injection
This medication is nothing more than a modified synthetic copy of vasopressin (a naturally occurring hormone), which works by helping the body release stored vWF into the bloodstream along with increasing factor VIII levels.
Side effects may include:
– local injection (site reactions),
-redness of the face,
-headache
-changes in blood pressure.
It is mainly given to patients as an infusion (by injection into a vein), but it can also be given subcutaneously (injected under the skin).
Stimate® (Desmopressin Acetate) Nasal Spray 1.5mg/mL
Stimate® (desmopressin acetate) Nasal Spray 1.5mg/mL is another type of desmopressin, made as a high concentration nasal spray.
Advantage:
– It can be used easily without the need for aids such as injections.
Stimate is recommended for use by people with mild to moderate VWD Type 1.
Common side effects:
-reddening of the face
-headache
Please note that desmopressin nasal spray is manufactured in two forms:
-bass concentrate
-high concentrate
Low concentration nasal spray is used to treat:
– diabetes insipidus
-bedwetting diseases
High concentration nasal spray is intended for the treatment of von Willebrand disease
Factor Replacement Therapies – Factor Concentrates
Factor replacement therapies are drugs given to replace the missing VWF in patients with VWD.
There are two types of replacement therapy:
-factor concentrates containing VWF, (preferred for the treatment of von Willebrand disease because they are treated to eliminate any possible viral infection)
-cryoprecipitate.
Both factor concentrates are derived from fresh plasma and are configured to be administered by infusion.
Humate-P®
Humate-P® Antihemophilic Factor/von Willebrand Factor Complex (Human). It is the only VWF concentrate approved in the United States for the treatment of von Willebrand disease (it is used for all types of von Willebrand disease),
Humate-P is effective for most, if not all, bleeding episodes in all types of von Willebrand disease.
Use:
-Humate-P is taken by injection. (Homemade beer).
Antifibrinolytics (local clotting agents)
Typical local clotting agents, or antifibrinolytics, usually given as an injection or orally (by mouth) (tablet, capsule, mouthwash, or elixir).
Role:
They help protect clots and keep them in place (anti-burst action) thus helping to evacuate the causes of thrombosis, that is, they reduce the chances of brain lesions, heart attacks…
Use:
Antifibrinolytics can be used to stop bleeding in many circumstances and especially those related to digestive system problems, bleeding from the mouth, nose, or gastrointestinal tract.
They are widely used to help control heavy bleeding during the menstrual period.
Oral contraceptive pills (birth control pills)
OCP, birth control pills or oral contraceptives, can increase the levels of VWF, by affecting the glandular system as a whole, at the same time affecting the tone of the white muscles and its powerful role in strengthening the immune system and fighting against hypertension. although they increase the risk of coagulation, and it is not favored in women with hypotension or thrombolytic diseases
Oral contraceptive pills should be used under the supervision of a doctor, especially when taken to treat von Willebrand disease.
Oral contraceptives are very helpful for women with HMB syndrome (heavy menstrual bleeding syndrome).
