Deferasirox-Teva (Deferasirox)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Deferasirox-Teva Used For?
Deferasirox-Teva is a medication that helps remove excess iron from the body, which can accumulate due to repeated blood transfusions or certain blood disorders.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat iron overload resulting from blood transfusions and in patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes.
How It Works
Deferasirox binds to iron molecules in the body, facilitating their removal and preventing damage to vital organs.
Good to know: Deferasirox-Teva is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Deferasirox-Teva
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Deferasirox-Teva to ensure effective treatment.
Dosage Instructions
The dosage is based on body weight. The typical starting dose is 14 mg per kg for patients receiving regular blood transfusions and 7 mg per kg for those not receiving transfusions. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response, with a maximum of 28 mg/kg for transfusion-dependent patients and 14 mg/kg for others.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headaches
- stomach or bowel issues
- rashes
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- changes in vision
- skin reactions
- reduced urine output
- vomiting blood or black stools
- fever
- breathing difficulties
- severe abdominal pain
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before using Deferasirox-Teva.
Who Should Not Take Deferasirox-Teva
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to deferasirox or any of its ingredients, have severe kidney issues, low blood cell counts, or advanced myelodysplastic syndrome or cancer.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have any kidney or liver problems, or if you are taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you become pregnant while taking this medication, inform your doctor immediately, as it may affect your baby. Discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients should be monitored closely, as they may experience more side effects.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Deferasirox-Teva, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit while taking this medication, as it may interact with its effects.
- cyclosporin
- midazolam
- simvastatin
- hormonal contraceptives
- aspirin
- ibuprofen
- oral bisphosphonates
- anticoagulants
- antacids containing aluminum
- repaglinide
- phenytoin
- phenobarbitone
- ritonavir
- rifampicin
- paclitaxel
- cholestyramine
- theophylline
- busulfan
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating vehicles or machinery while on Deferasirox-Teva.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol consumption as it may exacerbate side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Storage
Store Deferasirox-Teva in its original container in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and potential kidney or liver issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deferasirox-Teva helps remove excess iron from the body, but the time it takes to see results can vary by individual.
You can take Deferasirox-Teva either on an empty stomach or with a light meal, but avoid high-fat meals.
No, Deferasirox-Teva is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Deferasirox-Teva suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.
It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Weight gain is not commonly associated with Deferasirox-Teva.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while taking this medication due to a higher risk of side effects.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.