desifer (DEFERASIROX)
What is Desifer?
Desifer is a medication used to treat chronic iron overload, which is an excess of iron in the body due to blood transfusions. It belongs to a class of drugs called iron chelators, which work by binding to excess iron and allowing it to be excreted from the body. This helps prevent damage to organs caused by too much iron.
What is the usual dose of Desifer?
The usual starting dose of Desifer for adults is 20 mg/kg once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and blood tests. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg/kg daily. For children, the dose is based on body weight and requires careful monitoring. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
How do I take Desifer?
Take Desifer once daily, preferably on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before eating. It should not be crushed or chewed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once. Avoid taking it with dairy products or antacids containing aluminum or magnesium.
For how long do I take Desifer?
Desifer is usually a long-term medication for managing chronic iron overload. You'll typically take it daily as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response and any side effects you experience. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your treatment.
What disease or symptom is Desifer used for?
Desifer is primarily used to treat chronic iron overload, which occurs due to frequent blood transfusions. It helps remove excess iron from the body, preventing damage to organs. This medication is often used in patients with conditions like thalassemia or sickle cell anemia, where regular transfusions are necessary. It is usually part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
How long does it take for Desifer to start working?
Desifer starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take several weeks to see significant changes in iron levels. The full therapeutic effect can take months, depending on your condition and response to treatment. Regular blood tests help monitor its effectiveness. Always take it as prescribed for the best results.
Is Desifer effective?
Desifer is effective in treating chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions. It works by binding to excess iron, allowing it to be excreted from the body. Clinical studies show it significantly reduces iron levels in patients, improving health outcomes. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
How do I know if Desifer is working?
You'll know Desifer is working when blood tests show reduced iron levels. You might also notice fewer symptoms related to iron overload, like fatigue. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor the medication's effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed.
How does Desifer work?
Desifer works by binding to excess iron in the body, allowing it to be excreted through urine and feces. Think of it like a magnet attracting iron particles, helping to remove them from your body. This process helps prevent damage to organs caused by too much iron, making it effective for treating chronic iron overload.
Who should avoid taking Desifer?
Desifer should not be used in patients with severe kidney or liver problems, as it can worsen these conditions. It is also contraindicated in patients with high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes or advanced malignancies. Always consult your doctor about any health concerns before starting Desifer.
Can I take Desifer with other prescription drugs?
Desifer can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of adverse effects. For example, it can interact with anticoagulants, increasing bleeding risk. It may also interact with other iron chelators, leading to increased side effects. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to prevent interactions.
Can Desifer be taken safely while pregnant?
Desifer is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can Desifer be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Desifer is not recommended while breastfeeding due to limited information on its excretion into breast milk. Potential risks to the infant's developing organs, like kidneys, are a concern. If you're taking Desifer and want to breastfeed, discuss safer medication options with your doctor.
Is Desifer safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may be more vulnerable to the side effects of Desifer, such as kidney and liver problems. Regular monitoring is important to ensure safety. Discuss any concerns with your doctor, who can adjust the treatment plan based on your specific health needs.
How should I store Desifer?
Store Desifer at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Do not store it in humid places like bathrooms. Always keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Check the expiration date regularly and dispose of any unused or expired medication properly.
Does Desifer make people tired or drowsy?
Desifer doesn't typically cause tiredness or drowsiness. Most people take this medication without feeling unusually tired. If you notice you're feeling very sleepy or fatigued, talk with your doctor. Your tiredness might be caused by another medication or health condition.
Does Desifer cause stomach upset?
Desifer can cause stomach upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects are common and usually mild to moderate. Taking the medication on an empty stomach may help reduce these symptoms. If you experience severe or persistent stomach issues, talk with your doctor.
Does Desifer affect sleep?
Desifer doesn't typically cause sleep problems. Most people take this medication without experiencing changes in their sleep patterns. If you notice changes in how well you sleep after starting Desifer, talk with your doctor. Sleep problems might be related to another cause.
Does Desifer make it hard to think or concentrate?
Desifer doesn't typically cause thinking problems or concentration difficulties. Most people take this medication without experiencing changes in mental focus. If you notice problems with thinking after starting Desifer, talk with your doctor. These symptoms might be related to another cause.
Does Desifer affect mood?
Desifer doesn't typically cause mood changes. Most people take this medication without experiencing mental health effects. If you notice changes in your mood after starting Desifer, talk with your doctor. These symptoms might be related to another cause, and your doctor can help determine the best course of action.
Does Desifer interfere with sexual function?
Desifer doesn't typically cause sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction or loss of libido. Most people take this medication without noticing changes in their sexual function. However, if you experience any persistent discomfort or changes in your sexual function while taking Desifer, talk with your doctor. Your doctor can help determine if your symptoms are related to the medication and recommend appropriate treatment to address any issues.
Does Desifer affect appetite?
Desifer doesn't typically affect appetite. Most people taking this medication don't notice changes in how hungry they feel. If you notice unexpected changes in your appetite, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these changes are related to Desifer or another cause.
Does Desifer cause weight gain?
Desifer doesn't typically affect weight. Most people take this medication without noticing changes in their weight. If you experience unexpected weight changes, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these changes are related to Desifer or another cause.
Does Desifer cause headaches?
Headaches can occur with Desifer, but they are not common. If you experience mild headaches, staying hydrated and resting may help. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used after consulting your doctor. If headaches are severe or persistent, talk with your healthcare provider to determine if they are related to Desifer or another cause.
Does Desifer limit driving?
Desifer might cause dizziness or fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive safely. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving until they go away. Pay attention to how your body responds when you first start the medication. Talk with your doctor about any concerns regarding driving.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Desifer?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Desifer. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems, which are a concern with this medication. If you choose to drink, limit your intake and watch for symptoms like nausea or abdominal pain. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while on Desifer.
Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Desifer?
You can drink coffee and tea while taking Desifer. There's no known interaction between caffeine and Desifer. However, both can increase urination, so ensure you stay hydrated. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, these could be signs of dehydration, so talk with your doctor.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Desifer?
You can exercise while taking Desifer, but be mindful of potential side effects like dizziness or fatigue. These might affect your exercise capacity. To exercise safely, stay hydrated and watch for signs of dizziness or unusual fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest.
What are Desifer possible harms and risks?
Desifer'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 Desifer.
Available in 2 variations
Desifer 100mg Tablet 6s
Desifer 100mg Tablet 6s
Deferasirox (100mg)
strip of 6 tablets
Desifer 400 Tablet
Deferasirox (400mg)
strip of 6 tablets
.svg)
