About difelikefalin
Kappa opioid receptor agonist
Used for
- Treats moderate-to-severe itching associated with chronic kidney disease in adults receiving hemodialysis.
Usual adult dose
0.5 micrograms/kg intravenously after each hemodialysis session, three times weekly; give into the venous line.
Common side effects
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sleepiness
Important warnings
- May cause sleepiness, dizziness, or mental-status changes.
- Use caution with medicines that cause drowsiness or dizziness.
- Not established for people receiving peritoneal dialysis or not receiving hemodialysis.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are insufficient to determine risks.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether difelikefalin enters human milk; effects on the infant are unknown.
Interactions
- Sedatives, opioids, and other central nervous system depressants may increase sleepiness or dizziness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.