Desirox 250 mg Tablet

Desirox 250 mg Tablet – Product Description

Brand Name: Desirox
Active Ingredient: Deferasirox
Formulation: Tablet
Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd.

Packaging: available 30 tablets.
Description:

Desirox 250 mg Tablet contains Deferasirox, an oral medication used primarily for the treatment of iron overload in individuals with certain conditions, particularly in those who have received regular blood transfusions. This condition is common in disorders like thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and myelodysplastic syndromes, where excessive iron accumulates in the body as a result of frequent blood transfusions.

Deferasirox works as an iron chelator, meaning it binds to excess iron in the body, allowing it to be excreted through urine, thus preventing iron buildup that could damage vital organs such as the liver, heart, and endocrine glands.

Indications:

Desirox 250 mg Tablet is indicated for the treatment of:

• Chronic Iron Overload Due to Blood Transfusions: It is used in patients with conditions such as thalassemia major, sickle cell disease, and other disorders requiring frequent blood transfusions.

• Non-Transfusional Iron Overload: It may also be prescribed for individuals with iron overload due to ineffective erythropoiesis (where the body is unable to properly produce red blood cells), commonly seen in certain types of anemia.

Dosage and Administration:

• Chronic Iron Overload Due to Blood Transfusions:

  • The usual starting dose is 14 mg/kg of body weight per day, taken once daily, but this may be adjusted by the doctor based on your response and laboratory results.

  • Desirox should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, with a glass of water.

• Non-Transfusional Iron Overload:

  • The dose can vary, typically starting around 10 mg/kg per day, and adjusted according to the patient’s serum ferritin levels and overall iron overload.

The exact dosage will depend on the patient’s condition and body weight. Regular monitoring of iron levels and organ function is necessary during treatment to ensure optimal dosing.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.

• Skin rash or itching.

• Elevated liver enzymes: Deferasirox can cause liver damage, so liver function tests are recommended during treatment.

• Fatigue or weakness.

Serious side effects may include:

• Severe liver damage: Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or abdominal swelling.

• Kidney damage: Deferasirox can affect kidney function, leading to symptoms like swelling in the legs or feet, or changes in urination.

• Auditory or vision problems: Rarely, it may cause hearing loss or vision impairment.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any severe reactions.

Precautions:

• Liver or Kidney Disease: Desirox should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is essential during treatment.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Deferasirox is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed. It is unknown if the drug passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding should be avoided during treatment.

• Allergic Reactions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions to deferasirox or any of its components.

Drug Interactions:

Desirox may interact with other medications, such as:

• Cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or other immunosuppressants may interact with deferasirox and affect kidney function.

• Antacids containing aluminum, magnesium, or calcium may reduce the absorption of deferasirox.

• Rifampicin and other liver enzyme inducers may decrease the effectiveness of deferasirox.

Always inform your healthcare provider of all other medications you’re taking.

Storage Instructions:

• Store the tablets at room temperature (15°C to 30°C), away from heat, moisture, and light.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Do not use the medication after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer:

This product description is intended to provide general information. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and to discuss any concerns or potential side effects. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication. If you experience any serious side effects or symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately