Key facts about Deferiprone
What dosages is Deferiprone available in?
Deferiprone is available in 500 mg and 1000 mg oral tablets.
What is Deferiprone used for?
Deferiprone is iron chelator used in the treatment of transfusional iron overload in adult and pediatric patients 8 years of age and older with thalassemia syndromes, sickle cell disease or other anemias.
How does Deferiprone work?
Deferiprone is a chelating agent. It works by attaching to iron in the body and forming a chemical compound that isn’t harmful to you. Your body then gets rid of this iron compound by passing it through your urine.
How do I take Deferiprone?
The typical starting dose of Deferiprone is 75 mg/kg of body weight by mouth per day, which is split into either 2 or 3 doses throughout the day.
Is it safe for me to take Deferiprone?
Deferiprone is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication in the following:
- Hypersensitivity to Deferiprone or to any of the excipients in the formulations.
Deferiprone Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Deferiprone:
- Fever
- Stomach pain
- Bone pain
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Pain in arms or legs
- Sickle cell crisis
- Back pain
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Joint pain
- Mouth and throat pain
- Cough
- Low white blood cell count
- Nausea
Deferiprone Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Deferiprone. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Low white blood cells: fever, sore throat, mouth sores, flu-like symptoms, chills
- Low zinc levels
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Deferiprone
The following medications may interact with Deferiprone:
- Drugs that may cause neutropenia or agranulocytosis
- UGT1A6 Inhibitors
- Iron, aluminum, or zinc containing products
Who makes Deferiprone?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Deferiprone safe in pregnancy?
Deferiprone may cause harm to your unborn baby if taken while pregnant. Your healthcare provider will need to make sure you’re not pregnant before starting the medication. If you’re a female who can become pregnant, you should use an effective form of birth control during treatment and for 6 months after you stop taking the medication. If you’re a male taking Deferiprone and your partner can become pregnant, use contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after your last dose.
