Generic
Deferiprone
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Deferiprone is an oral iron chelator used for the treatment of iron overload in patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine therapy is contraindicated or inadequate.
Description
Deferiprone is a chelating agent with an affinity for ferric ion (iron III). Deferiprone binds with ferric ions to form neutral 3:1 (deferiprone:iron) complexes that are stable over a wide range of pH values. Deferiprone has a lower binding affinity for other metals such as copper, aluminum and zinc than for iron.
Indications
- Iron overload in thalassemia major patients when deferoxamine therapy is contraindicated or inadequate
Therapeutic class
Antidote preparations
Pharmacological class
Iron Chelator
Pharmacology
Deferiprone is a chelating agent with an affinity for ferric ion (iron III). Deferiprone binds with ferric ions to form neutral 3:1 (deferiprone:iron) complexes that are stable over a wide range of pH values.
Mechanism of action
Deferiprone binds to excess iron in the body, forming a stable complex that is excreted in urine and stools, reducing the risk of organ damage.
Dosage
Adults and children over 6 years: 25 mg/kg three times daily orally (total daily dose 75-99 mg/kg/day). Doses above 100 mg/kg/day are not recommended. Round dose to nearest 250 mg.
Administration
May be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. Do not chew, crush or break the tablet.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Deferiprone, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: Fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, diarrhea, reddish-brown discoloration of urine.
Serious: Neutropenia, agranulocytosis, increased liver enzymes.
Precautions & warnings
Monitor neutrophil count weekly for neutropenia and agranulocytosis. Seek immediate medical attention if fever, sore throat or flu symptoms occur. Monitor liver and renal function regularly. Avoid use in pregnancy and lactation.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; Pregnancy; Lactation.
Drug interactions
Aluminium-containing antacids: Do not use (may chelate trivalent metal ions).
Vitamin C: Caution with concurrent use (adverse interaction reported with deferoxamine).
Food interactions
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Deferiprone. Please consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Deferiprone is unsafe during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. May be used in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Deferiprone is probably unsafe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into breastmilk and harm the baby.
Pediatric use
Dosage is established for children over 6 years of age. Safety in children under 6 years has not been established.
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients. However, caution should be exercised.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Limited information available. Regular monitoring of kidney function tests is advised. Please consult your doctor.
Hepatic impairment: Limited information available. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is advised. Please consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
No adequate information on overdose is available. Overdose may increase side effects. Seek medical attention.
Storage conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Deferiprone