Rationale and indications for continuous infusion of antihemophilic factor (factor VIII).

The continuous infusion of drugs and biological compounds, such as factor VIII concentrate, should enhance therapeutic efficacy. Factor VIII can be produced by recombinant DNA technology or derived from plasma. Improvements to the stability of the compound have made continuous infusion feasible. Current and potential applications of continuous infusion of factor VIII product include (1) peri-operative conditions, (2) bleeding that threatens life or limb, (3) primary or secondary Prophylaxis and (4) immune tolerance therapy for factor VIII allo-antibodies. Less use of costly factor VIII and decreased laboratory expenses also contribute to the usefulness of continuous infusion.