defrijet (DEFERASIROX)
What is Defrijet?
Defrijet tablets are used to lower high iron levels in the blood. You take it once a day on an empty stomach. Don't chew the tablet; mix it with water, orange juice, or apple juice instead. The main ingredient is Defrijet. Other ingredients, which don't have a medical effect, include crospovidone (a substance that helps the tablet break down) and sodium starch glycolate (another tablet-helper). Important: Serious allergic reactions can happen during the first month of taking this medicine. See a doctor immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms like rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
What is the usual dose of Defrijet?
Defrijet is a medication used to treat iron overload. For adults, the usual starting dose is 20 mg per kilogram of body weight, per day (mg/kg/day). A kilogram is about 2.2 pounds. Children under 6 years old need a lower dose because their bodies don't process the medicine as well as adults'. They get about half the effect of an adult dose. People with kidney or liver problems may need a lower dose, determined by their doctor based on their individual health and iron levels. It's crucial to use the lowest effective dose to prevent serious side effects. The doctor will carefully monitor the patient.
How do I take Defrijet?
Defrijet can be taken on an empty stomach or with a small meal like a turkey sandwich or an English muffin with jelly and milk. If you miss a dose, take it later that day, at least two hours after a meal and half an hour before your next meal, unless it's almost time for your next dose or you can't take it on an empty stomach. There are no other special diet rules mentioned for taking Defrijet.
For how long do I take Defrijet?
Defrijet is taken long-term until iron levels return to a safe range, as determined by blood tests. The duration depends on the ferritin levels and liver iron concentration (LIC) in the body. In NTDT patients, therapy may be stopped once LIC drops below 3 mg Fe/g dry weight. Regular monitoring is essential to determine when to continue, adjust, or stop treatment
What disease or symptom is Defrijet used for?
Defrijet is used to treat chronic iron overload in patients who require frequent blood transfusions, such as those with thalassemia, sickle cell disease, or myelodysplastic syndromes. It is also prescribed for non–transfusion-dependent thalassemia (NTDT) patients aged 10+ years to reduce iron buildup. Excess iron can cause severe organ damage, especially to the heart, liver, and pancreas. This medication helps prevent these complications
How long does it take for Defrijet to start working?
Defrijet starts removing iron immediately, but visible effects may take weeks to months. Most patients show a decrease in iron levels after 3 to 6 months of treatment. Regular blood tests help track progress and confirm the medication’s effectiveness. Symptoms related to iron overload, such as fatigue and skin discoloration, may improve over time
Is Defrijet effective?
Defrijet starts removing iron immediately, but visible effects may take weeks to months. Most patients show a decrease in iron levels after 3 to 6 months of treatment. Regular blood tests help track progress and confirm the medication’s effectiveness. Symptoms related to iron overload, such as fatigue and skin discoloration, may improve over time
How do I know if Defrijet is working?
Defrijet's effectiveness is tracked by checking blood ferritin levels and how well the patient is doing. The dose is changed based on kidney function (eGFR). eGFR is a measure of how well your kidneys filter blood. If your eGFR is below 40 mL/min/1.73 m² (meaning your kidneys aren't working very well), treatment stops. If it's between 40 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m², the starting dose is halved. If your eGFR drops by more than a third from your starting level, the daily dose is lowered by either 3.5mg/kg or 5mg/kg of your body weight, and your kidney function is checked again within a week. (mg/kg means milligrams per kilogram of body weight).
How does Defrijet work?
Defrijet binds to excess iron in the blood, forming a compound that is excreted in feces. This prevents iron buildup in major organs, particularly the liver, heart, and pancreas, reducing the risk of iron-related complications. By lowering serum ferritin and liver iron concentration, it helps protect the body from long-term damage. Continuous use is necessary to maintain safe iron levels
Who should avoid taking Defrijet?
Patients with severe kidney or liver disease should not take Defrijet, as it may worsen their condition. Those with low platelet counts (<50,000/mm³) or active gastric ulcers or bleeding disorders should use it with caution. Individuals allergic to Defrijet or its components should avoid it. Doctors will evaluate potential risks before prescribing the medication
Can I take Defrijet with other prescription drugs?
Defrijet shouldn't be taken with aluminum-containing antacids (antacids that neutralize stomach acid). It can also weaken the effects of some other medicines. These include drugs broken down by the body's CYP3A4 enzyme (like cyclosporine, simvastatin, and birth control pills), drugs that boost UGT enzymes (which help the body process medications – like rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and ritonavir), and bile acid sequestrants (medicines that bind to bile acids in the gut, like cholestyramine, colesevelam, and colestipol). If you take Defrijet with UGT boosters or bile acid sequestrants, your doctor might need to increase your Defrijet dose. This is because these other drugs can reduce the amount of Defrijet your body absorbs, making it less effective. Your doctor will check your ferritin levels (a blood test measuring iron stores) and how you're responding to treatment to decide on the right dose.
Can Defrijet be taken safely while pregnant?
Defrijet is not recommended during pregnancy, as it may harm the fetus. Animal studies show evidence of birth defects and fetal toxicity, and human data is limited. Women taking this medication should use non-hormonal contraception to prevent pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, the risks should be discussed with a doctor immediately
Can Defrijet be taken safely while breastfeeding?
This medication, Defrijet, might pass into breast milk. We don't know for sure how much or what effects it might have on a baby. Because it could seriously harm a nursing infant, you and your doctor need to decide: continue breastfeeding or take Defrijet. You shouldn't do both. If you choose breastfeeding, you'll stop taking Defrijet. Your doctor can help you make the best decision for you and your baby.
Is Defrijet safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients have a higher risk of kidney and liver complications, so Defrijet should be used cautiously. Frequent monitoring is necessary to detect any signs of organ toxicity or bleeding issues. Dose adjustments may be required based on kidney function and overall health status. Doctors will assess individual risks before prescribing the medication
How should I store Defrijet?
Defrijet tablets should be stored at room temperature (ideally 77°F or 25°C, but acceptable between 59°F/15°C and 86°F/30°C). Keep them in a dry place away from moisture, in the original tightly sealed container. This protects the medication from damage and keeps it safe for use. Children should not have access to the medication. When you have leftover Defrijet, don't flush it down the toilet. Instead, take it to a medicine take-back program for safe disposal. This prevents environmental contamination and ensures proper waste management.
Does Defrijet make people tired or drowsy?
Defrijet can cause fatigue and weakness, which may affect more than 10% of users. If you experience excessive tiredness, consult your doctor for guidance on managing this side effect.
Does Defrijet cause stomach upset?
Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur in over 10% of patients. If you experience persistent stomach upset, inform your healthcare provider for potential adjustments or treatments.
Does Defrijet affect sleep?
Some users report insomnia or changes in sleep patterns, affecting over 10% of patients. If you notice significant sleep disturbances, discuss this with your doctor to explore possible solutions.
Does Defrijet make it hard to think or concentrate?
Defrijet may lead to difficulties with concentration and thinking, reported by more than 10% of users. If you encounter cognitive challenges, consult your healthcare provider for advice on managing these effects.
Does Defrijet affect mood?
Mental health effects such as anxiety or mood swings can occur in over 10% of patients. If you experience mood changes, reach out to your doctor to discuss your symptoms and possible interventions.
Does Defrijet interfere with sexual function?
Some individuals may experience a decrease in libido or difficulties with sexual performance, affecting more than 10% of users. If this occurs, talk to your healthcare provider about potential solutions.
Does Defrijet affect appetite?
Defrijet can lead to alterations in appetite, with more than 10% of users affected. If you notice significant changes in your appetite, consult your doctor for guidance.
Does Defrijet cause weight gain?
Weight gain can occur in over 10% of patients taking Defrijet. If you experience unexpected weight changes, discuss this with your healthcare provider for appropriate management strategies.
Does Defrijet cause headaches?
Headaches may affect more than 10% of users. If you develop frequent headaches while taking Defrijet, inform your doctor for potential treatment options.
Does Defrijet limit driving?
Defrijet can make you dizzy. This means you might feel unsteady or lightheaded. Because of this risk, you shouldn't drive a car or use any machinery (like power tools) until you know how the medication affects you personally. If you feel dizzy after taking Defrijet, definitely avoid driving. Dizziness is a sensation of unsteadiness, often accompanied by a feeling that you might faint. It's important to be cautious and prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If you experience dizziness, contact your doctor.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Defrijet?
Drinking alcohol while taking Defrijet is not recommended as it may increase the risk of liver damage and other side effects. It's best to limit or avoid alcohol and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Defrijet?
Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea do not significantly affect the safety or effectiveness of Defrijet. However, moderation is advised, particularly if caffeine increases anxiety or insomnia.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Defrijet?
Exercising while on Defrijet is generally safe unless you experience severe fatigue or other side effects that limit physical activity. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen while on this medication.
What are Defrijet possible harms and risks?
Defrijet's most common side effects are diarrhea and nausea. More serious, but rarer, side effects can include: * **Serious allergic reactions:** A severe, life-threatening response to the drug, usually appearing within the first month. * **Bone marrow problems:** This can lead to low levels of white blood cells (which fight infection), platelets (which help blood clot), or worsening anemia (low red blood cells). These problems can be fatal. * **Severe skin reactions:** Serious skin problems that can be life-threatening. * **Hearing and vision problems:** This includes cataracts (clouding of the eye lens) and increased pressure inside the eye. If you experience any of these side effects, especially the serious ones, seek immediate medical attention. It's important to talk to your doctor about any concerns regarding Defrijet.
Available in 2 variations
Defrijet 500mg Tablet 10s
Deferasirox (500mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Defrijet 250 Tablet
Defrijet 250 Tablet
Deferasirox (250mg)
strip of 10 tablets
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