Deferasirox

Generic Name: deferasirox

Iron Chelator [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Exjade

Deferasirox is an iron chelating agent available as 125 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg tablets for oral suspension.

Overview

Deferasirox is an iron chelating agent available as 125 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg tablets for oral suspension.

Uses

Treatment of chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions in patients ages 2 and older and in non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes in patients 10 and older with specific liver iron concentration and ferritin levels.

Dosage

Initial doses are 20 mg per kg body weight once daily for transfusional overload and 10 mg per kg body weight once daily for NTDT, both in patients with eGFR greater than 60. Tablets must be dispersed in liquid, taken on empty stomach 30+ minutes before food.

Side Effects

Most frequent reactions include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, skin rashes, and increases in serum creatinine. Serious postmarketing events encompass Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatic failure, acute renal failure, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

Interactions

Avoid aluminum-containing antacids, potent UGT inducers, bile acid sequestrants, and theophylline. Requires caution with CYP3A4 and CYP2C8 substrates and busulfan.

Warnings

Three critical warnings address renal failure, hepatic failure, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphasizing monitoring requirements and dose adjustments. Contraindicated in patients with eGFR less than 40, poor performance status, high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes, advanced malignancies, platelet counts less than 50, and known hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy

Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Animal studies showed renal anomalies in male offspring at doses near human recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deferasirox used for?

Treatment of chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions in patients ages 2 and older and in non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes in patients 10 and older with specific liver iron concentration and ferritin levels.

What are the side effects of Deferasirox?

Most frequent reactions include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, skin rashes, and increases in serum creatinine. Serious postmarketing events encompass Stevens-Johnson syndrome, hepatic failure, acute renal failure, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage.

Can I take Deferasirox during pregnancy?

Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. Animal studies showed renal anomalies in male offspring at doses near human recommendations.

What are the important warnings for Deferasirox?

Three critical warnings address renal failure, hepatic failure, and gastrointestinal hemorrhage, emphasizing monitoring requirements and dose adjustments. Contraindicated in patients with eGFR less than 40, poor performance status, high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes, advanced malignancies, platelet counts less than 50, and known hypersensitivity.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.