Anti-clotting nanobody (von Willebrand factor blocker)

Caplacizumab (كابلاسيزوماب)

Caplacizumab stops platelets from clumping together in small blood vessels. It is used with plasma exchange and immune-suppressing medicines to treat acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare and serious blood condition.

This medicine is used under close medical supervision, usually by a specialist. Never start, stop or change it without your doctor.

What it is used for

  • Treating an episode of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, together with plasma exchange and immune suppression

How it is used

  • The first dose is given into a vein in hospital, then later doses are injected under the skin
  • You may learn to inject yourself under the skin after training; your doctor decides how long to continue based on your tests

Possible side effects

  • Nosebleeds, bleeding gums or bruising
  • Headache, tiredness or fever
  • Injection site reactions
  • Rarely, serious bleeding

Who should not use it

  • Do not use it if you are allergic to this medicine or any ingredient in the product

Before and while using it

  • Get help straight away for heavy or ongoing bleeding, a sudden severe headache or black stools
  • Tell any doctor or dentist that you take it before any procedure, as it may need to be paused
  • Tell your doctor if you have another bleeding disorder or severe liver disease

Medicine interactions

  • Blood thinners and antiplatelet medicines such as aspirin, heparin and warfarin increase the risk of bleeding
  • Avoid anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen unless your doctor advises them
  • Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all your medicines, including herbal products and supplements

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; the specialist decides on treatment after weighing benefits and risks, and it may raise the risk of bleeding at delivery

How to store it

  • Keep it in the fridge in its carton; do not freeze it; keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

Get medical help straight away if

  • Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
  • You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
  • A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Questions about this medicine?

Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.

Source: Standard international medicine references

This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.