This medication is used to treat the symptoms that occur
with certain blood disorders (porphyrias). Hemin is not a cure for
porphyria. This medication may relieve symptoms such as pain, high blood
pressure, rapid heartbeat, or mental changes that may occur during an acute
attack of porphyria.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually
once daily.
The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition,
and response to treatment.
Discoloration of the skin or pain, tenderness, or
swelling along your veins may occur. If any of these effects last or get
worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using hemin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if
you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
This medication is made from human blood. Even though
the blood is carefully tested, and this medication goes through a special
manufacturing process, there is an extremely small chance that you may get
infections from the medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more
information.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug
are:
- barbiturates (such as pentobarbital, phenobarbital)
- "blood thinners" (anticoagulants such as heparin,
warfarin)
- corticosteroids (such as prednisone)
- estrogens
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: signs
of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).
Lab and/or medical tests (such as iron/ferritin levels)
should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and
lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right
away for a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic and will not be stored at home.
