Description
Korsuva (difelikefalin) is administered intravenously to treat adults with moderate to severe itching caused by chronic kidney disease and who are receiving hemodialysis (HD).
Fact Table
|
Formula
|
C36H53N7O6
|
License
|
US FDA
|
Bioavailability
|
Not applicable (IV administration)
|
Legal status
|
Prescription only (Rx)
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Chemical Name
|
Difelikefalin
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Elimination half-life
|
23-31 hours
|
Dosage (Strength)
|
0.5 mg/mL in a single-dose vial
|
Pregnancy
|
Consult a doctor
|
Brands
|
Korsuva
|
Protein binding
|
~25%
|
PubChem CID
|
57384877
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MedlinePlus
|
a621046
|
ChEBI
|
CHEBI:171243
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ATC code
|
V03AX04
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DrugBank
|
DB05519
|
KEGG
|
D10973
|
Routes of administration
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Intravenous (IV)
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Directions
Your doctor will determine an appropriate treatment regimen for you. A healthcare provider will administer Korsuva via an intravenous (IV) injection at the end of each HD treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Korsuva is difelikefalin.
Contraindications
Korsuva does not have any contraindications per the most recent Prescribing Information. Ask your doctor whether Korsuva may be an appropriate treatment for you.
Cautions
- Before you begin Korsuva treatment, tell your doctor about:
- All the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use
- Your allergies
- Your current health problems and past medical history
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Korsuva is associated with several warnings and precautions:
- Dizziness, drowsiness, altered mental status, and problems with walking
- Impaired mental or physical abilities to safely drive, operate machinery, or participate in other dangerous activities; therefore, patients should avoid these activities until they know how the medication affects them
- Patients with severe liver problems are not recommended to receive Korsuva therapy.
Side Effects
Dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, problems with walking, falls, high potassium levels in the blood, headache, drowsiness, and altered mental status are common side effects of Korsuva. Immediately notify your doctor if you experience side effects that bother you or won’t go away.
Ask your doctor about Korsuva injection.
Reference
Korsuva. Stamford, CT: Cara Therapeutics, Inc.; 2021.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13783