Deferasirox
Generic Details
Generic Name
Deferasirox
Other Names
- Exjade
- Jadenu
Drug Class
- Iron Chelator
Chemical Formula
C21H15N2O4
Molecular Weight
373.36 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Chelation of ferric iron
Indications
- Treatment of chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions in patients aged 2 years and older
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral suspension
Typical Dosage
- 20-40 mg/kg/day
Pediatric Dosage
- The recommended starting dose is 20 mg/kg/day
Geriatric Dosage
- Adjust dosage based on individual patient requirements
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Skin rash
- Headache
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to deferasirox
- Severe renal impairment
- Crushed tablets are not recommended for administration to patients who have difficulty swallowing
Pregnancy Category
- Category D
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, best to avoid or use with caution
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concomitant use with aluminum-containing antacids
- May increase plasma concentrations of simvastatin and atorvastatin
Overdose Symptoms
- Acute renal failure
- Liver failure
- Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Antidote for Overdose
- Deferoxamine
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Mainly bound to plasma proteins
- Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in the feces
Precautions
- Monitor renal function regularly
- Monitor serum ferritin levels
- Regular eye examinations are recommended
Warnings
- Renal failure reported, especially with concomitant use of nephrotoxic drugs
Others
- Take deferasirox on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before food