Deferox
Generic Name
Deferasirox
Manufacturer
Apothecary Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| deferox 500 mg tablet | ৳ 120.00 | ৳ 720.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Deferox 500 mg Tablet contains Deferasirox, an iron chelating agent used to treat chronic iron overload caused by frequent blood transfusions (transfusional hemosiderosis) or in patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Transfusional Iron Overload: Initial dose 20 mg/kg/day orally, once daily. Adjust dose in increments of 5 to 10 mg/kg/day based on response, up to a maximum of 40 mg/kg/day. Non-transfusion-dependent Thalassemia Syndromes: Initial dose 10 mg/kg/day orally, once daily. Adjust dose in increments of 5 to 10 mg/kg/day based on response, up to a maximum of 20 mg/kg/day.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required based on age. However, monitor renal and hepatic function closely, and consider starting at the lower end of the dosing range.
Renal_impairment
Avoid in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min). In moderate renal impairment, reduce initial dose and monitor renal function frequently. Discontinue if renal function deteriorates significantly.
How to Take
Take Deferox 500 mg Tablet orally once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, preferably at the same time each day. Tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with a small amount of soft food (e.g., yogurt, applesauce) or orange juice/apple juice and consumed immediately.
Mechanism of Action
Deferasirox is an orally active chelator that is selective for iron (Fe3+). It binds to iron in a 2:1 ratio (two molecules of deferasirox per one atom of iron) to form a stable complex, which is then primarily excreted via the feces. This process helps to reduce the total body iron burden.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical effects of iron reduction are observed over weeks to months, as it gradually reduces the total body iron burden.
Excretion
Mainly excreted via the feces (approximately 84%), with a small amount (approximately 8%) excreted via the kidneys.
Half life
The mean elimination half-life is approximately 8-16 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) reached approximately 1.5 to 4 hours post-dose. Absolute bioavailability is about 70%.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized by glucuronidation, mainly by UGT1A1, and to a lesser extent by CYP450 enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min).
- •Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) with high-risk or advanced stages, as the benefit-risk balance may be unfavorable.
- •Hypersensitivity to deferasirox or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Aluminum-containing antacids
Should not be taken concurrently with deferasirox. Take deferasirox at least 3 hours before an aluminum-containing antacid.
CYP3A4 substrates (e.g., Midazolam)
Deferasirox may decrease systemic exposure to CYP3A4 substrates. Dose adjustment of CYP3A4 substrate may be required.
UGT1A1 substrates (e.g., Repaglinide)
Deferasirox may increase systemic exposure to repaglinide; co-administration should be with caution.
Bile acid sequestrants (e.g., Cholestyramine)
May significantly decrease deferasirox plasma concentrations. Avoid co-administration.
UGT1A1 enzyme inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin)
May decrease deferasirox plasma concentrations, requiring an increase in deferasirox dose.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headache, and in some cases, acute renal or hepatic impairment. Management is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric decontamination if appropriate.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether deferasirox is excreted in human milk; therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 to 3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Generics available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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