Uses

Deferiprone is an oral iron chelator indicated for the treatment of transfusional iron overload in adults and pediatric patients aged 8 years and older with thalassemia syndromes, sickle cell disease, or other anemias requiring repeated transfusions.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to deferiprone or any excipients in the formulation. Hypersensitivity reactions including Henoch-Schönlein purpura, urticaria, and periorbital edema have been reported.

Side effects

The most clinically significant adverse effects are agranulocytosis and neutropenia. Other common reactions include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, elevated liver enzymes, arthropathy, and zinc deficiency.

Warnings

Deferiprone carries a boxed warning for agranulocytosis that can lead to life-threatening infections and death. Absolute neutrophil count must be monitored weekly before and throughout therapy. Interrupt therapy immediately if neutropenia develops.

How it works

Deferiprone is a bidentate iron chelator with high affinity for ferric ions (iron III). It forms neutral 3:1 (deferiprone:iron) complexes stable at physiological pH, facilitating urinary excretion of iron and thereby reducing systemic iron accumulation.

Storage

Store tablets at controlled room temperature. Oral solution should be stored as directed on the label; consult product insert for specific temperature requirements.