Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate)

 

Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate)

Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate) is a prescription iron-chelating agent used to treat chronic iron overload caused by frequent blood transfusions, such as in thalassemia or sickle cell disease. It works by binding excess iron in the body and helping eliminate it through urine and stool. Desferal is also used in cases of acute iron poisoning when rapid removal of iron is necessary.

Why Choose Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate)?

• Helps prevent organ damage from excess iron accumulation.
• Improves long-term health in patients receiving frequent transfusions.
• Can be administered via injection or infusion for flexibility in treatment.
• Effective in both chronic iron overload and acute iron toxicity.
• Supports a better quality of life by reducing complications of iron buildup.

How to Use Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate)?

• Always use Desferal exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• It is typically given by slow infusion under the skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
• Rotate injection sites to reduce irritation or discomfort.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on infusion time and frequency.
• Regularly monitor ferritin levels and iron status as advised.
• Do not self-administer unless properly trained.

Important Safety Information about Desferal

• Use only under medical supervision; improper use may cause serious side effects.
• Not recommended in patients with known hypersensitivity to deferoxamine.
• Inform your doctor about kidney problems, eye/ear disorders, or infections before use.
• Avoid taking vitamin C in high doses unless directed by your physician.
• Regular eye and hearing checkups are necessary during long-term use.
• Keep out of reach of children, as accidental overdose can be harmful.

Fact Table

 

Facts	Details
Brand Name	Desferal
Generic Name	Deferoxamine Mesylate
Drug Class	Iron-chelating agent
Dosage Forms	Injection (intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous)
Strengths Available	Vials containing 500 mg of deferoxamine mesylate (for reconstitution)
Primary Indications	– Treatment of acute iron intoxication – Chronic iron overload due to frequent blood transfusions (e.g., thalassemia) – Aluminum toxicity in patients with chronic renal failure (adjunct to dialysis)
Mechanism of Action	Binds free iron and aluminum in the bloodstream to form stable complexes (ferrioxamine and aluminoxamine) that are excreted primarily in the urine, reducing toxic accumulation.
Administration Routes	– Intramuscular (IM) – Subcutaneous (SC) via infusion pump (common for chronic use) – Intravenous (IV) infusion (for severe cases)
Typical Adult Dosage	– Acute Iron Poisoning: Initial IV infusion, followed by continuous infusion if needed. – Chronic Iron Overload: 20–60 mg/kg/day subcutaneously via infusion pump over 8–24 hours. – Aluminum Toxicity: 5 mg/kg once weekly, often during dialysis. (Exact dosage varies by patient condition and medical guidance.)
Onset of Action	Rapid binding of circulating iron; clinical improvement typically within hours in acute poisoning.
Contraindications	– Hypersensitivity to deferoxamine – Severe renal disease without dialysis
Warnings & Precautions	– Ocular and auditory disturbances with prolonged use – Growth retardation in children with long-term therapy – Increased risk of infections (e.g., Yersinia, mucormycosis) – Use caution in renal impairment
Common Side Effects	– Local injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness) – Fever, rash, pruritus – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea – Dizziness, headache – Red/orange urine discoloration
Drug Interactions	– Vitamin C: High doses may increase risk of cardiac complications when combined with deferoxamine – Avoid use with other nephrotoxic or ototoxic drugs unless necessary
Storage	Store unreconstituted vials at controlled room temperature (15–30°C). Reconstituted solutions should be used promptly or stored under conditions specified by the manufacturer.

Common Side Effects

Like all medications, Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Fever, headache, or dizziness
• Stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea
• Rash or skin reactions

If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.

How Can You Buy Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate)?

You can order Desferal (Deferoxamine Mesylate) using these methods on our website:

1. Order Online
2. Order by Phone
3. Order by Fax
4. Order your refills

Visit our How to order page.