DEFEROXAMINE

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Desferal
GENERIC NAME(S): DEFEROXAMINE MESYLATE

Description: Deferoxamine is  has a high affinity for ferric iron and forms chelates or stable water-soluble complexes with iron and other trivalent metal ions eg, aluminum. It removes free and bound iron from haemosiderin and ferritin, increasing the excretion of iron in urine and bile.

Alongside other treatments, this his medication is used to treat sudden iron poisoning; and get rid of iron in patients with high iron levels due to many blood transfusions. It works by helping the kidneys and gallbladder get rid of the extra iron.

This medication is not recommended for use in children less than 3 years old (see also Precautions section).

How to use deferoxamine injection
It is injected directly into a muscle, under the skin, or into a vein as directed by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Side effects may range from mild to serious complications.  Consult your doctor immediately when youfeel the following symptoms: Pain and swelling at the injection site or blurred vision may occur, vision loss, loss of color vision, cataracts), eye pain, hearing changes (such as ringing ears, decreased hearing/loss), unexplained diarrhea/abdominal pain/fever, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome- sudden/severe shortness of breath, labored or rapid breathing, severe dizziness

It may cause may cause your urine to turn reddish but this effect is harmless.This medication is recommended to be given intramuscularly or subcutaneosuly because when given intravenously (via vein), flushing, severe itching, severe dizziness, fast heartbeat, and fainting can occur.

Seek emergency medical help if you expereince allergies (rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing) or the symptoms mentioned above while taking this drug.

Inform your doctor of your allergies (food or drugs), medical conditions and  medical history before taking this drug, especially of: kidney problems, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, any fungal infection.  Older adults are more senstivie to the side effects.

If you are using this medication for aluminum poisoning, also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: seizures, decreased calcium levels in the blood, hyperparathyroidism.

Do not perform activities that require alertness such as driving and using machinery because thid drug can make you dizzy.

This drug may have adverse effects on the bone growth of children, especially thos under age 3.

For pregnant and nursing (breastfeeding) women, consult your doctor before using this medication.

Some of the products that may interact with this drug include: prochlorperazine.

Do not use this drug with vitamin C.

Overdose
Get medical emergency help immediately when you experience symptoms of overdose (seizures, bluish skin (cyanosis), sudden vision changes, sudden loss of vision).

Missed Dose
Receive the scheduled dosage for the best treatment outcome.

Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.  Discard properly the unused portion- do not flush in toilet or pour into a drain.  Keep away from children and pets.

Brands
Available Brands
Desferal [ Novartis Healthcare ]

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