vonicog alfa

Vonicog alfa is a purified recombinant human von Willebrand factor (rVWF) produced using recombinant DNA technology in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells without the addition of exogenous human or animal proteins. It is indicated for the treatment and prevention of bleeding episodes and surgical bleeding in adults with von Willebrand disease (VWD), particularly when desmopressin is ineffective or not indicated. Vonicog alfa works by replacing missing or dysfunctional endogenous VWF, a key protein required for normal blood clotting. Mechanistically, it facilitates platelet adhesion to sites of vascular injury and stabilizes circulating coagulation factor VIII, thereby correcting both primary hemostasis and associated FVIII deficiency. The drug allows flexibility as it contains only vWF; additional administration of factor VIII can be given if needed. Developed originally by Shire and now by Takeda following acquisition, it offers an alternative to plasma-derived products for patients with inherited VWD.

Brand names

VonvendiVeyvondi

Other names

recombinant human von Willebrand factorrVWF