DEFERASIROX
Background and Date of Approval
Deferasirox is an iron chelator approved for medical use on 2 November 2005.
Uses
Deferasirox Tablet has been developed to remove excess iron from the body. It is indicated to treat chronic iron overload due to blood transfusion and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia.
How is it administered?
Deferasirox is available as tablets in the doses 100mg, 180mg, 250mg, 360mg, 400mg and 500mg. your healthcare provider will prescribe the accurate dose depending on your body weight and medical condition. Swallow Deferasirox Tablet with water or other fluids at the same time each day. Take Deferasirox on an empty stomach or after light meals.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Deferasirox Tablet are diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rashes, and increase in serum creatinine. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you experience allergic reactions or severe skin reactions during this treatment.
Warnings
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience allergies, ulcer, skin reactions or bleeding during this treatment. During the Deferasirox Tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood counts, serum creatinine, and liver parameters to prevent serious complications. Deferasirox is not recommended for patients with poor performance status, myelodysplastic syndrome, advanced cancer and GFR lower than 40ml/min/1.73m2. Seek immediate medical attention from your healthcare provider if you experience vision changes.
Precautions
Deferasirox is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby. Patients should use an effective non-hormonal contraception while on treatment with Deferasirox to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
Word of Advice
Deferasirox may cause hearing and vision problems. Therefore, auditory and eye examinations should be considered before starting treatment and periodically during therapy. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness, fatigue, or tiredness.
References
Michael C. Byrns and Trevor M. Penning, Goodman & Gilmanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Environmental Toxicology: Carcinogens and Heavy Metals, 13th Edition, 2018, 1297-1315. Novartis Pharmaceuticals, US Food & Drug Administration [Revised on Jul 2020] [Accessed on 21st Sep 2022], https://www.novartis.com/us-en/sites/novartis_us/files/jadenu.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not use the Deferasirox Tablet?
Deferasirox is not recommended for patients with poor performance status, myelodysplastic syndrome, advanced cancer and GFR lower than 40ml/min/1.73m2.
What blood tests are required during Deferasirox treatment?
Complete blood count, serum creatinine and liver parameters are the most important blood tests that will be suggested by your doctor during this treatment.
How to store Deferasirox Tablet?
Store Deferasirox Tablet at 20°C - 25°C and protect from moisture.
What are the side effects of taking Deferasirox Tablet?
Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rashes, and increase in serum creatinine are the most common side effects of Deferasirox Tablet.
What should you not take with Deferasirox Tablet?
It is not recommended to take Deferasirox along with NSAIDs (painkillers), osteoporosis medications and antacids. Tell your healthcare provider before starting treatment with Deferasirox if you are taking any prescription medicines, vitamin or herbal supplements.
How long can you stay on treatment with Deferasirox Tablet?
Take Deferasirox Tablet for as long as your doctor prescribes you to take. Since the dosing and administration is based on body weight, tell your doctor if you have recently gained or lost body weight.
How can you tell if Deferasirox treatment is working?
Your healthcare provider will check your blood ferritin and iron levels every month after starting treatment with Deferasirox to check how well you respond to this treatment.