Other Medications
Routine medications
Patients with hemophilia can receive routine medications (e.g. pain medications, antibiotics, etc.) that do not interfere with clotting function. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), ASA and any product with aspirin-related ingredients (e.g. Pepto-Bismol, Excedrin, Percodan).
Medications for fever or pain
Acetaminophen can be given for fever or pain. Narcotics/opioids are often recommended to control the pain experienced by a patient with hemophilia. Avoid giving intramuscular injections of antibiotics, pain medications, or immunizations because of the possibility of causing a muscle bleed.
Routes of administration
Medications which can be given PO, SC, or IV are preferred. Routine immunizations and tetanus toxoid may be given subcutaneously. If the rabies vaccination series is needed, an experienced hematologist (preferably the patient's) should be contacted to arrange factor infusions prior to and after the injections in order to prevent internal bleeding.
For any needle stick, pressure and an ice pack afterward will minimize soft tissue or muscle bleeding.
Cautions
Some patients with hemophilia may have liver disease from hepatitis. Use caution when prescribing drugs that may cause liver toxicity. Other patients may be on other therapies for hemophilia-related complications such as HIV or hepatitis. Be aware of potential serious drug interactions.