Hemin Injection

What is this medication?

HEMIN (HEE min) prevents attacks of porphyria, a condition that causes the buildup of toxins (porphyrins) in your body. It works by decreasing the amount of toxins in the body. This decreases symptoms such as pain, vomiting, and muscle weakness.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Panhematin

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Blood clotting disorders
• An unusual or allergic reaction to hemin, latex, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is infused into a vein. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 16 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

• Medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

You may need blood work while taking this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Infection—fever, chills, cough, or sore throat
• Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Fever
• Headache
• Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.