Defera
Generic: Deferiprone
Daily Dose:
Duration:
Alternatives (1)Cheaper & Alternative Brands
Same generic (Deferiprone), same form (Tablet)
Clinical Prescribing Information
Medical monograph and safety information for healthcare professionals & patients.Indications & Clinical Uses
Defera is indicated for the treatment of iron overload patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine therapy is contraindicated or inadequate. Defera therapy should be initiated and maintained by a physician experienced in the treatment of patients with thalassemia.
Dosage & Administration
In adults and children over 6 years
: this medicine may be given by mouth in doses of 25mg/kg three times daily. Doses above 100mg/kg daily are not recommended. Or, as directed by the registered physician.
Contraindications
It is contraindicated for hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients.
Side Effects & Adverse Reactions
Gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are common during Defera 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.
Warnings & Precautions
Defera 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.
Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action
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.