About human hemin
Heme replacement agent
Used for
- Treats acute attacks of hepatic porphyria, including acute intermittent porphyria.
- Reduces symptoms by suppressing production of porphyrin precursors.
Usual adult dose
Usually 3 mg/kg by intravenous infusion once daily for four days; maximum 250 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
Not established for routine use in children; specialist assessment is required.
Common side effects
- Infusion-site pain, swelling, or inflammation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Blood clotting or vein complications
Important warnings
- Use under specialist supervision in hospital.
- Repeated treatment may cause iron overload.
- Extravasation can damage surrounding tissue.
- Monitor kidney and liver function, iron levels, and blood clotting with repeated use.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; experience is limited, and severe attacks also carry risks.
Breastfeeding
Unknown whether hemin passes into breast milk; use requires specialist assessment.
Interactions
- Estrogens, barbiturates, and some anticonvulsants may trigger porphyria attacks.
- Anticoagulants may have altered effects; monitor clotting.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.