factor XIII at a glance
Medicine class
Human plasma-derived antihaemorrhagic clotting-factor replacement
Licensed use
Congenital factor XIII deficiency in adults and children
Administration
Injection or infusion into a vein after reconstitution
What is factor XIII used for?
The selected product is licensed for adults and children with congenital factor XIII deficiency.
Preventing or treating the resulting bleeding tendency and haemorrhage
Managing impaired wound healing caused by the deficiency
How does factor XIII work?
Factor XIII cross-links fibrin strands at the final stage of clotting. This strengthens the clot, makes it less likely to break down and supports wound healing.
How to take factor XIII
It is reconstituted with the supplied water and given into a vein by a trained professional or a patient or carer trained by the haemophilia centre.
Bring unopened vials to room temperature without direct heat.
Gently swirl; do not shake.
Use only a clear or slightly opalescent solution without particles or discolouration.
Do not dilute or mix with other products; use a separate intravenous line.
Record the product name and batch number each time.
factor XIII side effects
Common or expected effects
- No adverse effects are classified as common; fever has been reported rarely.
Get urgent medical advice
- Allergic or anaphylactic-type reactions, including hives, rash, breathing difficulty, low blood pressure or collapse
- Possible thrombosis, with symptoms such as sudden chest pain, breathlessness, leg pain or swelling, or an unusual severe headache
- Inhibitory antibodies, suspected if expected factor XIII activity is not achieved or breakthrough bleeding occurs
factor XIII in pregnancy
Limited product data have not identified harmful effects, and factor XIII may be used during pregnancy when necessary. Pregnancy should be planned and managed jointly by specialist haematology and obstetric teams because congenital deficiency carries miscarriage and bleeding risks.
factor XIII while breastfeeding
There are no direct data on transfer into human milk. Transfer and absorption by the infant are considered unlikely, and the product information permits use while breastfeeding.
factor XIII interactions
Formal interaction studies have not been performed. Tell the haemophilia team about all medicines being used.
Other injectable medicines, diluents or solvents
Factor XIII must not be mixed with them and should be given through a separate line.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen
These can add to the underlying bleeding risk; check suitable pain relief with the treating team.
Common questions about factor XIII
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is factor XIII replacement made from?
The selected product is purified human coagulation factor XIII derived from donated plasma.
Why does factor XIII help prevent bleeding?
It cross-links fibrin strands so a newly formed clot becomes stronger and less likely to break down.
Can children use factor XIII?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.