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The main treatment for hemophilia is “replacement therapy” - giving or replacing the clotting factor that is too low or missing. Concentrates of the clotting factor are infused, or injected directly into the bloodstream. The specific factors used to treat hemophilia are:

• Factor VIII for hemophilia A
• Factor IX for hemophilia B

Replacement therapy can be used for the following:

• To prevent bleeding (prophylactic (PRO-fih-lac-tik) or preventive therapy)
• To stop bleeding when it occurs, on an as-needed basis (demand therapy)

The type of treatment received depends on several things. Here are the treatments usually given for mild, moderate, or severe hemophilia:

• Mild hemophilia - Replacement therapy is usually not needed for mild hemophilia. A medication called desmopressin (DDAVP), however, is sometimes given to raise the body’s levels of factor VIII. Since the effect of desmopressin wears off with chronic use, it is applied prior to dental work, participation in sports and other similar activities, to prevent or reduce bleeding. Desmopressin does not help in hemophilia B.

• Moderate hemophilia - Those that may need treatment only when bleeding occurs need to learn to recognize signs and symptoms of bleeding so that they can get treatment as quickly as possible. They may also have treatment to prevent bleeding that could occur when participating in some activity.

• Severe hemophilia - Long-term or shorter term preventive therapy is needed for those with severe hemophilia to prevent bleeding that could cause permanent damage to joints, muscles, or other parts of the body. Some people with severe hemophilia receive treatment only when bleeding occurs, however.

When bleeding occurs, it is important to get treatment as soon as possible. Delayed treatment can lead to complications. Learn to recognize signs of bleeding, and make sure that it is treated quickly.