Kapruvia

Difelikefalin, the active ingredient in Kapruvia, is a kappa opioid receptor agonist presented as an intravenous injection for intravenous use. It is indicated for the relief of itching (pruritus) in patients with chronic kidney disease who are receiving hemodialysis, addressing a common and distressing symptom in this population.

GNH USA supplies Kapruvia as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, providing reliable access to this specialty therapy for qualified healthcare providers.

Kapruvia (difelikefalin) is used to target itch pathways in chronic kidney disease‑related pruritus.

Pruritus associated with chronic kidney disease in patients undergoing hemodialysis: reduces itch intensity and improves quality of life. Hemodialysis‑related pruritus: provides symptomatic relief during treatment sessions.

Kapruvia may cause a range of adverse reactions, which are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea - Diarrhea - Headache - Dizziness

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) - Significant hypotension - Respiratory depression

When prescribing Kapruvia, clinicians should observe several precautionary measures to ensure patient safety.

- Monitor renal function: assess kidney parameters before and during therapy. - Assess for hypersensitivity: discontinue if signs of allergic reaction appear. - Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disease: watch for hypotension. - Avoid use in patients with known kappa opioid receptor hypersensitivity: contraindicated. - Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Kapruvia can interact with other medicines, requiring attention to potential additive or antagonistic effects.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concomitant use with other kappa opioid receptor agonists: may increase opioid‑related effects and risk of respiratory depression. - Co‑administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): may raise difelikefalin plasma levels, increasing adverse event risk.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Use with drugs that cause hypotension (e.g., antihypertensives): monitor blood pressure. - Combination with central nervous system depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines): observe for enhanced sedation. - Interaction with immunosuppressants: watch for altered immune response.