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Deferasirox

Deferasirox

Where is Deferasirox used?

Deferasirox is used for the treatment of:

  • On-going high levels of iron in the body that is caused by multiple blood transfusions
  • High levels of iron in people with a certain blood disorder. It is for those who do not require blood transfusions called non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT)

Numerous blood transfusions are necessary for certain types of blood diseases like anemia and sickle cell disease. Blood transfusions have very helpful benefits. They can cause the body to hold on to excessive iron. The extra iron can build up in the body and may cause problems such as:

  • Liver disease
  • Heart failure
  • Diabetes

Getting rid of too much iron can lessen the risk of these diseases.

Deferasirox is in the class of drugs known as iron chelator agents. This is an orally active substance that binds selectively to Fe3+. It is a tridentate ligand that needs two molecules of itself to form a firm complex with each iron atom. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription.

How does Deferasirox work?

Deferasirox is highly selective for iron while it does not appear to promote dietary absorption of iron. Although this has a very low affinity for copper and zinc, there is a variable lessen in the serum concentration of these trace metals. It is after the administration of Deferasirox. These transient decreases may be clinically irrelevant. The iron complex of this drug appears to be inert. This is also excreted to a large extent in the feces, rather than being redistributed.

How is Deferasirox taken?

This medicine is to be taken by mouth usually once a day. Each dose is to be taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Avoid taking this with a meal high in calories and fat. It may increase your risk of side effects.

Take the tablets with a full glass of water. If you have trouble swallowing the tablets, you may crush them and mix them with soft foods. Swallow the drug and food mixture right away. Do not prepare in advance. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response.

To get the most benefit from this medication, use it regularly. Do not use this drug more often or increase your dose than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

What are the possible side effects of Deferasirox?

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal or stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Hives or skin rashes
  • Vision problems
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

What are the precautions in taking Deferasirox?

  • Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking melatonin or caffeine supplements.
  • Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. If you get pregnant while having this medication, call your doctor right away.
  • Remember to take each dose at the same time every day.
  • Inform your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction to this drug before.
  • Never share your medicines with others and use this only for the indication prescribed.