Kapruvia

Difelikefalin, the active ingredient in Kapruvia, is a selective kappa‑opioid receptor agonist formulated as an injectable solution for intravenous administration. It is indicated for the relief of chronic kidney disease‑associated pruritus in adult patients specifically receiving hemodialysis.

GNH USA supplies Kapruvia as a licensed, Good Distribution Practice‑compliant product, providing reliable access to hospitals, dialysis centres, transplant units and specialty pharmacies across international markets. The product is manufactured in the European Union and meets the regulatory standards required for clinical use.

Kapruvia (difelikefalin) is used to treat pruritus related to chronic kidney disease, acting on peripheral kappa‑opioid receptors to reduce itch signaling.

Chronic kidney disease‑associated pruritus: Reduces intensity of itch in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Difelikefalin may be associated with several adverse reactions, which are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild to moderate feeling of sickness. - Diarrhea: loose stools. - Hypotension: transient low blood pressure. - Headache: mild to moderate head pain.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Anaphylactic reaction: severe allergic response requiring immediate medical attention. - Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure leading to syncope. - Respiratory depression: reduced breathing effort, rare but serious.

When prescribing Kapruvia, clinicians should consider several safety measures. - Assess renal function: evaluate baseline kidney status before initiation. - Monitor blood pressure: watch for hypotensive episodes during and after infusion. - Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to difelikefalin or formulation components. - Use with caution in patients receiving other opioids or central nervous system depressants. - Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; weigh potential benefits against risks. - Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Kapruvia may interact with other medications; interactions are grouped by clinical significance.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concomitant use with other kappa‑opioid agonists: may increase risk of additive opioid effects. - Co‑administration with potent immunosuppressants: could heighten infection risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Concurrent antihypertensives: may enhance hypotensive effect. - Diuretics: may affect fluid balance and blood pressure. - Drugs that prolong QT interval: consider ECG monitoring.