Deferoxamine

Products

Deferoxamine is commercially available as an injectable (Desferal). It has been approved in many countries since 1963.

Structure and properties

Deferoxamine is present in drugs as deferoxamine mesilate (C₂₆H₅₂N₆O₁₁S, M_r = 657 g/mol), a white powder that is readily soluble in water.

Effects

Deferoxamine (ATC V03AC01) forms complexes with trivalent iron and aluminum and delivers them to excretion primarily through the urine.

Indications

For the treatment of chronic iron overload, acute iron toxicity, and chronic aluminum overload. For diagnosis of iron or aluminum overload.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an infusion. It can be given intramuscularly, intravenously, and subcutaneously.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Drug-drug interactions have been described with prochlorperazine, vitamin C, and gallium-67.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include administration site reactions, muscle and joint pain, headache, fever, hives, and nausea. In children, growth retardation and bone changes may occur at high doses.