Desferal
Generic name:deferoxamine [ de-fer-OX-a-meen ]
Drug classes:Antidotes, Chelating agents
What is Desferal?
Desferal binds to iron and removes it from the bloodstream.
Desferal is used to treat acute (immediate) iron overdose.
Desferal is also used to treat chronic (long-term) iron overload caused by repeated blood transfusions.
Desferal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use Desferal if you have severe kidney disease, or if you are unable to urinate.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Desferal if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
severe kidney disease; or
if you are unable to urinate.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis);
heart disease;
vision or hearing problems;
asthma or other breathing disorder;
low levels of calcium in your blood (hypocalcemia); or
a parathyroid disorder.
If you need to have any type of x-ray or CT scan using a dye that is injected into a vein, you may need to temporarily stop using Desferal. Be sure the doctor knows ahead of time that you are using this medicine.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Desferal is not approved for use by anyone younger than 3 years old.
How should I use Desferal?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Desferal is sometimes injected into a muscle. This medicine may also be given over 8 to 24 hours using an infusion pump attached to a catheter placed under your skin or into a vein. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.
Desferal must be mixed with a liquid (diluent) before using it. When using injections by yourself, be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medicine.
Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. It is best to use Desferal within 3 hours after mixing it. Do not use if the medicine has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Throw away the medicine if it has been longer than 24 hours since it was mixed with the liquid.
Your doctor may tell you to take a
