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Heme iron polypeptide
Generic name: heme iron polypeptide
Brand names: Proferrin Clear, Proferrin-ES
What is heme iron polypeptide?
Heme iron polypeptide is also known as iron and other names.
Heme iron polypeptide is used to treat anemia of chronic disease, iron deficiency anemia, and iron deficiency related to pregnancy.
Heme iron polypeptide has been used in alternative medicine as a possibly effective aid in treating breath-holding attacks, memory and thinking skills, heart failure, and restless legs syndrome.
Heme iron polypeptide has also been used to treat athletic performance, child growth, and premature birth. However, research has shown that heme iron polypeptide may not be effective in treating these conditions.
It is not certain whether heme iron polypeptide is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Heme iron polypeptide should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.
Heme iron polypeptide is often sold as a dietary supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many dietary supplements and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Dietary supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.
Heme iron polypeptide may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.
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How should I take heme iron polypeptide?
When thinking about using dietary supplements, ask your doctor for advice. You might also want to talk to a specialist who knows about dietary supplements.
If you decide to use heme iron polypeptide, follow the instructions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than what is suggested on the label.
Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
If you cannot take heme iron polypeptide on an empty stomach, avoid dairy foods, coffee, tea, and cereals.
Your blood may need to be tested frequently.
Call your doctor if the problem you are treating with heme iron polypeptide does not get better, or if it worsens while you are using this product.
This product can change the results of some medical tests. Inform any doctor who treats you that you are using heme iron polypeptide.
Heme iron polypeptide may be just one part of a complete treatment plan that includes a special diet. Follow the diet plan made for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. Become familiar with the list of foods you should eat to help manage your condition.
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
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Warnings
Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform all your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you take.
Taking too much of this product can be deadly, especially for a young child who may have swallowed it by mistake.
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Before taking this medicine
Before using heme iron polypeptide, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use this product if you have certain medical conditions.
Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have or have ever had:
- hemoglobin disease;
- diabetes;
- stomach ulcer;
- nosebleed;
- if you are a young female participating in physical training; or
- kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis).
Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give any dietary supplement to a child without medical advice.
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Heme iron polypeptide side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Although not all side effects are known, heme iron polypeptide is thought to be likely safe for most people when used as directed.
Common side effects of heme iron polypeptide may include:
- abdominal pain, constipation;
- diarrhea, upset stomach; or
- nausea, vomiting.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Heme iron polypeptide dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Anemia Associated with Chronic Renal Failure:
3 to 4 tablets per day with doses spread throughout the dayDo not administer more than 3 tablets at any one time and separate additional tablets by at least 3 hours.
Usual Adult Dose for Iron Deficiency Anemia:
1 to 2 tablets per day
Usual Adult Dose for Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation:
1 to 2 tablets per day
Usual Adult Dose for Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation during Pregnancy/Lactation:
1 to 2 tablets per day
Usual Geriatric Dose for Anemia Associated with Chronic Renal Failure:
3 to 4 tablets per day with doses spread throughout the dayDo not administer more than 3 tablets at any one time and separate additional tablets by at least 3 hours.
Usual Geriatric Dose for Iron Deficiency Anemia:
1 to 2 tablets per day
Usual Geriatric Dose for Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation:
1 to 2 tablets per day
Usual Geriatric Dose for Vitamin/Mineral Supplementation during Pregnancy/Lactation:
1 to 2 tablets per day
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time.
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What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Taking too much iron can be deadly, especially for a young child who accidentally swallows it.
Signs of an overdose may include diarrhea or vomiting blood.
Do not take any vitamin or mineral supplements that your doctor has not prescribed or recommended.
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What other drugs will affect heme iron polypeptide?
Other drugs may affect heme iron polypeptide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.
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Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.