Consensus-based guidelines supported by the literature are presented on the role of prophylactic administration of factor VIII concentrate in children and adults with severe haemophilia A. The timing of initiation of prophylaxis, the choice of prophylactic regimen, monitoring, management of breakthrough bleeding and education of the patient and family are discussed.

British Journal of Haematology, 149, 498–507, doi:10.1111/j.1365-2141.2010.08139.x