Use of Recombinant Factor VIIa in Obstetrics

Abstract

The objective of this review article was to evaluate the current literature on the increasing off-label use of rFVIIa in the management of critical obstetric hemorrhage. Given the lack of high-level evidence, there is a need to review the clinical indications, observed response and adverse events. This review is designed to aid practitioners in deciding when and how to administer rFVIIa; It may prove reasonable as rescue therapy because current observational evidence suggests that potential benefits of rFVIIa for this indication might outweigh the risks. Rescue therapy is appropriate for bleeding that is massive, potentially life-threatening, and refractory to conventional therapy. Nevertheless, extreme caution is advised when considering the administration of rFVIIa to patients who are at risk for thromboembolic complications.