What it does
Desferasinox is a medication used to treat iron overload in patients with certain conditions.
Commonly used for: iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions, iron overload related to certain blood disorders (e.g., thalassemia, sickle cell disease)
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Source: Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-15 20:43:13 · updated 2026-10-20 04:32:29
About this medicine
Desferasinox is a medication used to treat iron overload in patients with certain conditions.
What it treats
- iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions
- iron overload related to certain blood disorders (e.g., thalassemia, sickle cell disease)
How it works
It helps remove excess iron from the body, which can accumulate due to various medical treatments.
Who it's for
This medication is for individuals who have high levels of iron in their bodies, often due to ongoing medical treatments.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: desferasinox
Desferasirox is an oral iron chelator used primarily in the treatment of chronic iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions in patients with conditions such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease. It helps to reduce iron levels in the body, thereby minimizing the risk of organ damage associated with iron overload.
Indications
- Chronic iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions
- Beta-thalassemia major
- Sickle cell disease
- Other conditions requiring iron chelation therapy
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to the prescribing information or BNF for specific adult dosing guidelines.
Mechanism of action
Desferasirox works by forming a stable complex with ferric ions, leading to the excretion of iron primarily through the feces. This process reduces the excess iron in the body, which can be toxic at high levels.
Pharmacodynamics
Desferasirox has a high affinity for iron and is selective for ferric ions, which contributes to its ability to effectively reduce body iron burden. The drug helps to lower serum ferritin levels and liver iron concentration, thus improving iron-related complications in patients.
Pharmacokinetics
Desferasirox is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 4 hours after administration. It has a bioavailability of approximately 30%, and its pharmacokinetics can be influenced by food. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver and has a half-life of around 8 to 16 hours. It is excreted mainly via the feces, with less than 1% excreted in urine.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Rash
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Renal impairment
Interactions
- May interact with other iron chelators
- Potential interactions with drugs that affect liver function
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests regularly
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Assess the patient's iron overload status prior to initiation
Pregnancy
There is limited data on the use of desferasinox in pregnancy. Caution is advised.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether desferasinox is excreted in human milk. Caution is recommended.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light.
Formulations
- Oral suspension
- Tablets
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.