Deferasirox is an iron chelator that was approved for its medical use on 2nd November 2005.

Deferasirox Tablet has been developed to remove excess iron from the body. It is indicated to treat chronic iron overload due to blood transfusion and non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia.

Deferasirox is available as tablets in the doses 100mg, 180mg, 250mg, 360mg, 400mg and 500mg. your healthcare provider will prescribe the accurate dose depending on your body weight and medical condition. Swallow Deferasirox Tablet with water or other fluids at the same time each day. Take Deferasirox on an empty stomach or after light meals.

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Deferasirox Tablet are diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rashes, and increase in serum creatinine. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you experience allergic reactions or severe skin reactions during this treatment.

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience allergies, ulcer, skin reactions or bleeding during this treatment. During the Deferasirox Tablet treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your blood counts, serum creatinine, and liver parameters to prevent serious complications. Deferasirox is not recommended for patients with poor performance status, myelodysplastic syndrome, advanced cancer and GFR lower than 40ml/min/1.73m2. Seek immediate medical attention from your healthcare provider if you experience vision changes.

Deferasirox is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby. Patients should use an effective non-hormonal contraception while on treatment with Deferasirox to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Deferasirox is associated with auditory and visual disturbances. Consider auditory and ophthalmic testing before and during treatment with Deferasirox Tablet. Avoid driving and operating machinery if you feel dizzy or tired.

1. Michael C. Byrns and Trevor M. Penning, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Environmental Toxicology: Carcinogens and Heavy Metals, 13th Edition, 2018, 1297-1315.
2. Novartis Pharmaceuticals, US Food & Drug Administration [Revised on Jul 2020] [Accessed on 21st Sep 2022], https://www.novartis.com/us-en/sites/novartis_us/files/jadenu.pdf 

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.