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Indications & Uses
Defera is used to treat iron overload in patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine treatment cannot be used or isn't working well enough. Treatment with Defera should be started and supervised by a physician who has experience managing thalassemia patients.
Pharmacology
Deferiprone is a chelating agent that binds preferentially to ferric iron (iron III). Each deferiprone molecule pairs with iron in a 3:1 ratio, forming a neutral complex that remains stable across a wide pH range. Compared with iron, deferiprone binds much more weakly to other metals such as copper, aluminum, and zinc.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
For adults and children over 6 years of age, the usual dose is 25mg per kg of body weight, taken by mouth three times a day. The total daily dose should not exceed 100mg per kg. Always follow the exact dose and schedule recommended by the registered physician.
Side Effects
Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are common during treatment with Defera and may call for a temporary reduction in dose. It is also common for the urine to take on a reddish brown colour. Other reported side effects include joint pain and raised liver enzyme levels.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Defera can cause neutropenia, including agranulocytosis, so the patient's neutrophil count should be checked weekly. It should be used with caution in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.
Contraindications
It is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to deferiprone or to any of the excipients in the formulation.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Deferiprone is not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Storage
Store Deferiprone below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Defera 500 mg
What is Defera 500 mg Tablet?
Defera 500 mg Tablet is a medicine that contains Deferiprone. It is made by Jenphar Bangladesh Ltd. It belongs to the Antidote preparations group of medicines.
What is Defera used for?
Defera is used to treat iron overload in patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine treatment cannot be used or isn't working well enough. Treatment with Defera should be started and supervised by a physician who has experience managing thalassemia patients.
What are the side effects of Defera?
Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are common during treatment with Defera and may call for a temporary reduction in dose. It is also common for the urine to take on a reddish brown colour.
Can I take Defera during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Deferiprone is not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How should I store Defera?
Store Deferiprone below 30°C, and keep it away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I take other medicines with Defera?
Some medicines can interact with Deferiprone, for example: Deferoxamine Mesylate, Vitamin C. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Is there a cheaper medicine with the same ingredient?
Defera is already among the lowest-priced brands of Deferiprone at this strength.
Do I need a prescription for Defera?
Defera is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.