Clotting factors
Clotting factors are substances in the blood that help stop bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. People who have clotting disorders, such as hemophilia, have clotting factors that do not function properly.
When the blood doesn't clot normally, even minor injuries can cause serious bleeding. This can lead to blood loss, injury to internal organs, or permanent damage to muscles or joints.
Most people who have clotting disorders can successfully manage their bleeding problems with clotting factor replacement therapy. Clotting factors may be injected on a regular basis to prevent bleeding episodes, or on an as-needed basis to prevent or control a bleeding episode that has occurred or is likely to occur.
Why is a clotting factor replacement for hemophilia done?
Control bleeding. Clotting factors can treat bleeding episodes. They are given as soon as possible after a bleed begins.
Prevent bleeding. Clotting factors can be given just before a procedure or surgery to prevent bleeding. You can also give yourself clotting factors just before you do an activity that might cause a bleed. Some people give themselves clotting factors on a regular schedule, such as 3 times a week, to prevent bleeding. This is called prophylactic therapy.
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