Deferiprone is indicated for the treatment of iron overload patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine therapy is contraindicated or inadequate. Deferiprone therapy should be initiated and maintained by a physician experienced in the treatment of patients with thalassemia.
Antidote preparations
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.
Adult: 25 mg/kg tid. Doses >100 mg/kg daily are not recommended.Child: >6 yr: 25 mg/kg tid.May be taken with or without food.
The safety of concurrent use of Deferiprone and Vitamin C has not been formally studied. Based on the reported adverse interaction that can occur between deferoxamine and Vitamin C, caution should be used when administering concurrent Deferiprone and Vitamin C. It should not be given with aluminium containing antacids.
It is contraindicated for hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients.
Gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are common during deferiprone treatment and may require temporary reduction in dose. A reddish brown discoloration of the urine is also common. Other adverse effects that have been reported include arthralgia and increased liver enzymes.
Pregnancy Category D. There is positive evidence of human foetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk (e.g., if the drug is needed in a life-threatening situation or for a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).
Deferiprone has been shown to cause neutropenia including agranulocytosis. The patients neutrophil count should be monitored every week. Caution is advised in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Antidote preparations
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.
Deferiprone is not recommended for use in pregnant & lactating women.
