About

Deferasirox is an oral iron chelator designed to remove excess iron from the body. It works by binding to iron with high affinity, forming a stable complex that is then excreted primarily through the feces. This mechanism is crucial for patients suffering from chronic iron overload, a condition often resulting from frequent blood transfusions in diseases like thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, or myelodysplastic syndromes.

Chronic iron overload can lead to significant organ damage, particularly to the heart, liver, and endocrine glands. Deferasirox helps to prevent and mitigate this damage by reducing systemic iron levels. Its convenience as an oral formulation improves patient adherence compared to traditional parenteral chelators. Regular monitoring of iron levels, renal function, and hepatic function is essential during treatment.

Uses

Treatment of chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions.
Management of non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes with iron overload.
Used in adults and pediatric patients (aged 2 years and older).
Prevention of organ damage caused by excessive iron accumulation.

Directions For Use

Take once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, preferably at the same time each day. Disperse the tablet in water or juice and drink immediately.

Benefits

Effectively reduces excess iron in the body.
Helps prevent and reverse organ damage from iron overload.
Oral formulation offers convenience and improved adherence.
Suitable for long-term management of chronic iron overload.
Can improve quality of life for patients requiring frequent transfusions.
Reduces the need for invasive iron chelation therapies.

Side Effects

Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Rash
Increased serum creatinine
Headache
Pyrexia (fever)
Cough
Elevated liver transaminases
Proteinuria
Hearing loss

Safety Measures

Alcohol - Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity, a potential side effect of deferasirox.
Pregnancy - Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Animal studies show reproductive toxicity. Effective contraception is advised for women of childbearing potential.
Breastfeeding - It is unknown if deferasirox is excreted in human milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or the drug, considering the importance of the drug to the mother.
Liver - Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Liver function tests should be monitored regularly, and dose adjustments may be necessary.
Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Renal function should be monitored closely, and dose adjustments or discontinuation may be required if creatinine levels rise significantly.
Lung - Monitor for signs of interstitial lung disease, a rare but serious adverse effect.

Disclaimer

MedEHub is committed to delivering reliable, expert-reviewd information to help consumers make informed health decisions. However, the content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult your doctor for any medical concerns, and discuss your questions about health conditions or medications with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice based on information found on Med E Hub.

Our goal is to complement, not replace, the essential doctor-patient relationship.

Shipping & Location