Ferinil (500mg) 50 Coated Tablets

Deferiprone, a medication primarily used to treat iron overload, exerts its effects through a specific mechanism of action. It acts as a chelating agent, forming strong complexes with excess iron ions in the body. This drug selectively binds to ferric iron (Fe3+), facilitating its excretion in urine and feces. Deferiprone's chelation process involves the formation of stable ferric-deferiprone complexes, which are soluble and readily eliminated from the body, thereby reducing the overall iron burden. This mechanism is crucial in managing conditions where excessive iron accumulation occurs, such as in patients with thalassemia major who require regular blood transfusions. By effectively chelating and removing excess iron, deferiprone helps prevent the damaging effects of iron overload on various organs, particularly the heart and liver.

Deferiprone 500mg

Iron chelator

Tablet

The following are the uses of Deferiprone 500mg Tablet:

• Used for treating thalassemia, a blood disorder, by reducing excess iron absorbed by the body.
• Used to manage chronic iron overload in patients receiving regular blood transfusions.
• Used to bind and remove excess iron from the body, preventing organ damage.
• Used as a chelating agent to improve liver function and reduce cardiac issues related to iron overload.
• Used to enhance overall well-being and reduce symptoms like fatigue and abdominal pain.
• Used to lower the risk of complications from iron toxicity in specific patient populations.
• Used as an alternative for patients unable to tolerate other iron chelation therapies.
• Used in combination with other treatments to optimize iron management and patient outcomes.

In the case of an overdose of Deferiprone 500mg Tablets, the severity of symptoms may vary depending on the amount ingested. Common signs of overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe cases can lead to liver damage, low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. It is important to seek medical advice promptly and provide information on the quantity consumed. Treatment for overdose may involve supportive care, monitoring vital signs, and managing symptoms to prevent further complications.

In the case of a missed dose of Deferiprone 500mg Tablet, it is important to take the medicine as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects. If you frequently miss doses, consider setting reminders or asking someone to remind you to take your medication at the correct time to maintain its effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns regarding missed doses.

To take Deferiprone 500mg Tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably during a meal or as directed by your healthcare professional, ensuring you follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by your doctor.

Following are the conditions when Deferiprone 500mg Tablet should not be taken:

• Avoid if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Deferiprone or any of its excipients.
• Do not take this medication if you have a history of neutropenia or low white blood cell count.
• Contraindicated in patients with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia).
• Not recommended for individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function.
• Avoid using this medicine if you have a history of alcohol abuse or alcoholism.
• Should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may cause harm to the fetus or infant.
• Do not administer to children under 6 years of age due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy.
• Deferiprone is not suitable for people with a history of seizures or epilepsy.
• Do not take this medication if you have a history of gastrointestinal disorders or ulcers.
• Contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease or those on dialysis.

The side effects of Deferiprone 500mg Tablet may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Skin rashes or itching
• Joint pain
• Fatigue and weakness
• Fever
• Low white blood cell count (leukopenia)

Following are the precautions and warnings for Deferiprone 500mg Tablet:

• Patients with a known allergy to Deferiprone or any of its ingredients should not take this medication.
• Regular monitoring of blood cell counts and liver function is essential during treatment, and the therapy should be discontinued if abnormal values are detected.
• Deferiprone can cause gastrointestinal disturbances; patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders should be closely monitored.
• This medication may cause zinc deficiency; monitoring and supplementation may be required.
• Deferiprone can lead to neutropenia and agranulocytosis; regular blood tests are necessary, and patients should be advised to report any signs of infection.
• Not recommended for use in children and adolescents below 18 years of age due to limited safety data.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution and consult their doctor, as the drug may cause fetal harm and can be transferred through breast milk.
• Patients should be advised to complete the full course of treatment and not to stop taking the medication without consulting their healthcare provider.

Following are the drug interactions for Deferiprone 500mg Tablet:

• Concomitant use with other iron chelating agents like deferoxamine or deferasirox may lead to reduced efficacy and increased side effects due to overlapping mechanisms of action.
• Deferiprone can decrease the effectiveness of aluminum-containing antacids, leading to reduced absorption of aluminum.
• May reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, potentially decreasing their efficacy.
• Caution is advised when taking with medications that can cause neutropenia or bone marrow suppression, as it may increase the risk of these side effects.
• Deferiprone may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, such as warfarin or aspirin.
• It can also interact with certain medications that are metabolized by the liver, potentially affecting their blood levels.
• Use with caution in patients taking medications that lower blood pressure, as it may have additive effects.

Following are the food interactions for Deferiprone 500mg Tablet:

• Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment, as it may increase the risk of stomach irritation and liver-related side effects.
• Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits should be consumed with caution as they can enhance iron absorption, potentially affecting the medication's effectiveness.
• Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt may interfere with iron absorption; consider separating these from medication intake by a few hours.
• High-fiber foods like whole grains, legumes, and leafy vegetables can slow down the absorption of Deferiprone, potentially reducing its efficacy.
• Vitamin C-rich foods such as bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries may increase iron absorption, so monitor iron levels if consuming these regularly.
• Avoid spicy foods, as they can irritate the stomach and potentially worsen gastrointestinal side effects associated with Deferiprone.
• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water to reduce the risk of constipation, a possible side effect of this medication.
• Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea may increase stomach acid production, potentially affecting the medication's absorption, so consider reducing their intake.

Deferiprone 500mg Tablets should be stored in a secure and dry location, preferably in a medicine cabinet or a designated storage area. Keep the tablets in their original packaging or container, ensuring the lid is tightly sealed to maintain their integrity. It is crucial to protect the medication from exposure to moisture, heat, or direct sunlight, as these factors can degrade the quality of the tablets. Always check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use the medication if it is past its expiry. When disposing of unused or expired tablets, do not throw them in the trash or flush them down the toilet. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste management guidelines for safe disposal practices to minimize environmental impact. Keep the medication out of children's reach to prevent accidental consumption.

Following are the quick tips for Deferiprone 500mg Tablet:

• Store the tablets in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Take the medicine as prescribed, typically three times a day, at regular intervals.
• Avoid taking antacids within 2 hours of taking Deferiprone for better absorption.
• Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and iron levels.
• Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking to prevent interactions.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.