protamine

(-mĭn)
n.
Any of a group of simple proteins found in fish sperm that are strongly basic, are soluble in water, are not coagulated by heat, and yield chiefly arginine upon hydrolysis. In purified form, they are used in a long-acting formulation of insulin and to neutralize the anticoagulant effects of heparin.

Any of a group of proteins of relatively low molecular weight found in association with the chromosomal DNA of vertebrate sperm cells. They contain a single polypeptide chain comprising about 67% arginine. Protamines are thought to protect and support the chromosomes.

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Brand names: Hemochron Protamine™

Drug Forms:
• Protamine injection (below)
• Protamine Sulfate Solution for injection

Español:
• Inyección de protamina
• Sulfato de protamina, Solución para inyección

Protamine injection

What is protamine injection?

PROTAMINE treats overdoses of the anticoagulant heparin, by binding with it to form an inactive complex. Protamine is a protein, developed from fish sperm. Generic protamine injections are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• inject insulin containing protamine
• vasectomy
• an unusual or allergic reaction to protamine, fish, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Protamine is for slow infusion into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What other medicine can interact with protamine?

• heparin

Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines; if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol; if you smoke; or if you use illegal drugs. These can affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking protamine?

Your condition will be closely monitored while you receive protamine.

What side effects might I notice from receiving protamine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• chest pain or tightness
• difficulty breathing, wheezing, cough
• dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting spells
• flushing or feeling of warmth
• nausea, vomiting
• rash and itching (hives)
• unusual bleeding

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• gum bleeding or nosebleeds
• unusual tiredness

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

Any of a class of simple proteins, soluble in water, not coagulated by heat, and precipitated from aqueous solution by addition of alcohol, found combined with nucleic acids in the sperm of certain fish, and having the property of neutralizing heparin. Protamine sulfate is used as an antidote to heparin overdosage.

• p. paracoagulation — used to examine a blood sample for fibrin monomers and fibrinogen-split products.
• p. zinc insulin (PZI) — see insulin.

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