How should I use hemin?
Before you start treatment with hemin, your doctor may perform tests to make sure you are having an actual porphyria attack.
Hemin is usually given after other medicines to treat porphyria have been given for a certain amount of time.
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Using too much hemin could harm your kidneys.
Hemin is injected into a vein through an IV. You may be shown how to use an IV at home. Do not give yourself this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of needles, IV tubing, and other items used.
For best results, start using hemin at the first sign of a porphyria attack.
You may need to use hemin once or twice per day for up to 2 weeks, depending on how your body responds to the medicine.
Hemin is a powder medicine that must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. If you are using the injections at home, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.
Prepare your dose only when you are ready to give an injection
After mixing the powder with the diluent, shake the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes.
Give the injection right away after mixing. Do not save it for later use. Throw away any unused mixture after one use. The hemin and diluent mixture does not contain a preservative.
While using hemin, you may need frequent blood and urine tests.
Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.