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Hematex
Generic name: iron polysaccharide
Brand names: Ezfe, Ferrex-150, Hematex, NovaFerrum 50, NovaFerrum Pediatric, Nu-Iron 150, Poly Iron, ProFe
What is Hematex?
Hematex is a type of the mineral iron. Iron is essential for many functions in the body, particularly for carrying oxygen in the blood.
Hematex is used to prevent and treat iron deficiencies and iron deficiency anemia.
Hematex is not for use as a general dietary supplement in people who have normal iron levels.
Hematex may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I take Hematex?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Take Hematex on an empty stomach for the best results. If you experience stomach upset, take the medicine with food or after a meal.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
You will need frequent medical tests.
Do not use Hematex to treat iron deficiency anemia without your doctor's advice. Every person with anemia should remain under the care of a doctor.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. An accidental overdose of iron can be fatal to a child.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
You should not take Hematex if you have hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis, or hemolytic anemia.
Keep Hematex away from children. If a child accidentally takes too much iron, it can be deadly.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Hematex if you have:
- hemochromatosis;
- hemosiderosis; or
- hemolytic anemia.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Hematex side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Hematex may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:
- bloody or tarry stools; or
- severe stomach pain or cramps.
Common side effects of Hematex may include:
- constipation, diarrhea;
- nausea, upset stomach;
- black or dark colored stools; or
- temporary staining of the teeth.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Taking too much Hematex can be deadly, especially for a child.
Signs of an overdose may include low energy, fever, vomiting, stomach pain, dark stools, weak pulse, fast heartbeat, or seizures (convulsions).
For at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take Hematex, do not eat or drink:
- milk or other dairy products;
- high-fiber foods (such as whole grains, raw vegetables, or bran);
- coffee, tea;
- cola, chocolate; or
- energy drinks, or other sources of caffeine.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Hematex?
Some medicines can reduce how well Hematex works if you take them at the same time. If you are using any of the following medicines, take your Hematex dose 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking the other medicine:
- an antacid;
- an antibiotic;
- medicine to treat Parkinson's disease; or
- thyroid medication.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Hematex, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.