Albumin injection

What is this medicine?

ALBUMIN (al BYOO min) is used to treat or prevent shock following serious injury, bleeding, surgery, or burns by increasing the volume of blood plasma. This medicine can also replace low blood protein.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• changes in heartbeat

• fever, chills

• pain, redness or swelling at the injection site

• signs of viral infection including fever, drowsiness, chills, runny nose followed in about 2 weeks by a rash and joint pain

• tightness in the chest

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• increased salivation

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will not be given this medicine to store at home.

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

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• anemia

• heart disease

• kidney disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to albumin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be closely monitored while you receive this medicine.

Some products are derived from human plasma, and there is a small risk that these products may contain certain types of virus or bacteria. All products are processed to kill most viruses and bacteria. If you have questions concerning the risk of infections, discuss them with your doctor or health care professional.