Eferas (Deferasirox)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Eferas Used For?
Eferas is a medication that contains deferasirox, which helps manage iron overload in the body. This condition can arise from repeated blood transfusions or in patients with thalassemia syndrome.
Primary Uses
Eferas is primarily used to treat iron overload that occurs after multiple blood transfusions and in patients with thalassemia syndrome who are not dependent on transfusions.
How It Works
Eferas works by binding to excess iron in the body, allowing it to be excreted and preventing damage to vital organs.
Good to know: Eferas is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Eferas
It is important to take Eferas as prescribed by your doctor for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The typical starting dose is 14 mg per kilogram of body weight each day for patients receiving regular blood transfusions. For those not receiving transfusions, the starting dose is 7 mg per kilogram daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response, with a maximum of 28 mg per kilogram for transfusion-dependent patients and 14 mg for others.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Important: Never double the 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:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- bloating
- constipation
- rash
- headache
- itching
- dizziness
- fatigue
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- severe skin reactions
- substantially reduced urine output
- vomiting blood
- blurred vision
- severe abdominal pain
Impulse Control Issues
There is no specific mention of impulse control issues associated with Eferas.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind while using Eferas.
Who Should Not Take Eferas
Do not use Eferas if you have a known allergy to deferasirox or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver issues, low blood cell counts, or are undergoing treatment for cancer.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Eferas and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Eferas works.
- ciclosporin
- midazolam
- simvastatin
- hormonal contraceptives
- painkillers (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen)
- oral bisphosphonates
- anticoagulants
- antacids containing aluminum
- repaglinide
- medications for epilepsy (e.g., phenytoin)
- ritonavir
- rifampicin
- paclitaxel
- cholestyramine
- theophylline
- busulfan
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised regarding alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while taking Eferas.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol intake as it may exacerbate side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be cautious when driving or using machinery, as Eferas may cause dizziness.
Temperature Regulation
No specific warnings regarding temperature regulation were mentioned.
Storage
Store Eferas tablets in their original packaging in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Eferas, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Eferas to show effects can vary based on individual health conditions and response to treatment.
You can take Eferas on an empty stomach or with a light meal, but avoid high-fat meals as they can interfere with absorption.
No, Eferas is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Eferas without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
It is advisable to limit alcohol intake while on Eferas due to potential side effects.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Eferas.
Elderly patients should use Eferas with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next 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.