desferal FAQ

Deferoxamine should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

While less common, the most serious side effects of deferoxamine are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. Deferoxamine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using deferoxamine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Do not use deferoxamine unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed. Do not share deferoxamine with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them. Keep deferoxamine out of the reach of children. Deferoxamine can cause dizziness. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until you know how deferoxamine affects you. Deferoxamine may be infused under the skin using a portable infusion device. If this is how deferoxamine is prescribed to you, make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly prepare and use your infusion device. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider. You may notice a reddish or brownish discoloration of your urine (pee) while you are using deferoxamine. This is due to iron chelates leaving your body. It is a sign that deferoxamine is working. This is common and not harmful. While you are using deferoxamine, your health care provider may perform certain tests to make sure that deferoxamine is safe for you to use. Keep all appointments, including those for lab work or other tests, while you are using this medicine. People who are 65 or older can be at greater risk of some side effects from deferoxamine. Talk to your health care provider about your risks if you are in this age group. Vitamin C, a vitamin that may be included in multivitamin products or other combination products, is sometimes used with deferoxamine. Higher doses of vitamin C, when used while you are using deferoxamine, can increase your risk of side effects. Talk to your health care provider before taking vitamin C to see if you should take it and if so, what dose of vitamin C you should take.

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Deferoxamine is commonly used to treat the following conditions.

Deferoxamine works by binding to lead in your body, forming compounds called chelates. Your body gets rid of the chelates when you pee. This helps to lower your iron levels.

If you or someone else has used too much deferoxamine, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

If you receive deferoxamine injections at a clinic or hospital, your health care provider will make sure you are receiving deferoxamine as scheduled. If you miss an appointment to get your deferoxamine dose, call to make another appointment as soon as possible. If you receive deferoxamine using a portable infusion pump and the pump device malfunctions, contact your health care provider and follow their instructions for any missed doses.

There are no known interactions between deferoxamine and foods or drinks. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect deferoxamine. The risk of dizziness may increase if you drink alcohol while using deferoxamine.

The most common side effects of deferoxamine are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use deferoxamine.

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if deferoxamine is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Other Medicines and Supplements. Deferoxamine may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using deferoxamine, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details. Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using prochlorperazine (Compro and others), which is a medicine that may be used to treat certain mental health conditions or severe nausea and vomiting, before using deferoxamine. This may not be the only medicine that can interact with deferoxamine. Always check with your health care provider.