Protamine Sulfate, Injection

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: heparin antagonist (antidote)

Generic and brand names: protamine sulfate, injection

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is given by injection (shots) to treat an overdose of heparin (a medicine that reduces the chance of blood clots forming).

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:

• an allergic reaction to any medicine or to fish
• a vasectomy

Also tell your provider if you take insulin or if you have ever been given protamine before.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

How do I use it?

This medicine must be given by a healthcare provider. It is most often given during surgery while you are under close observation.

What should I watch out for?

You will be watched very closely after you receive this medicine. If you have any trouble breathing or unusual bruising or bleeding tell your healthcare provider right away.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away. If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).

Serious (report these to your healthcare provider right away): Lightheadedness; dizziness; flushing or feeling of warmth; fast heartbeat; fainting; nausea; vomiting; unusual tiredness or weakness; unusual bleeding or bruising.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

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This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.

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Published by RelayHealth.
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