Difelikefalin is used to treat itching in individuals with long-term kidney disease who undergo dialysis (a procedure that helps individuals with kidney failure to filter toxic substances from the blood).
Difelikefalin injection is to be administered into a vein through a tube that connects you to the dialysis machine.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the severity of your condition.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Difelikefalin.
If you miss an appointment or miss a dialysis session, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or dialysis session should be given as soon as possible.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart failure (weakness and inability of the heart to pump blood)
- multiple sclerosis (scars or lesions in the brain and spinal cord)
- Alzheimer's disease (a progressive disease which destroys memory and other important mental functions)
- severe liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For as long as you are using Difelikefalin, you may need to have regular blood tests (e.g. blood potassium levels) to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
Difelikefalin may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, and numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- ondansetron (medicine for nausea or vomiting)
- alprazolam (medicine for anxiety)
- zolpidem (medicine for sleep disorder)
- trazodone (medicine to treat depression)
- strong painkillers
- certain medicines for cold or allergy
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Difelikefalin.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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