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Brand Names: Proferrin-ES

Generic Name: heme iron polypeptide (Pronunciation: HEEM I ern POL ee PEP tide)

What is heme iron polypeptide (Proferrin-ES)?

Heme iron polypeptide is a type of iron. You normally get iron from the foods you eat. In your body, iron becomes a part of your hemoglobin (HEEM o glo bin) and myoglobin (MY o glo bin). Hemoglobin carries oxygen through your blood to tissues and organs. Myoglobin helps your muscle cells store oxygen.

Heme iron polypeptide is used to treat an iron deficiency (a lack of iron in the body).

Heme iron polypeptide may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of heme iron polypeptide (Proferrin-ES)?

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.

Call your doctor if you have a serious side effect such as:

bright red blood in your stools; or
pain in your chest or throat when swallowing a heme iron polypeptide tablet.

Less serious side effects may include:

constipation, diarrhea;
nausea, stomach pain, upset stomach; or
black or dark-colored stools or urine.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about heme iron polypeptide (Proferrin-ES)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have iron overload syndrome, hemolytic anemia (a lack of red blood cells), a stomach ulcer, an intestinal disorder (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease), if you receive regular blood transfusions, or if you are allergic to beef, milk, or other dairy products.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of iron can be fatal, especially in a young child.

Overdose symptoms may include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Heme iron polypeptide is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you should eat to make sure you get enough iron from both your diet and your medication.

Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking heme iron polypeptide (Proferrin-ES)?»

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.