Deferiprone
Written By Dr. Sakshi Jain
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 28 Mar 2025 | 06:29 AM (UTC)
Deferiprone Uses
Deferiprone is used in the treatment of iron overload and transfusion dependent thalassemia.
How Deferiprone works
Deferiprone traps and removes excess iron which is then excreted mainly in the stools. This reduces the risk of organ damage.
Common side effects of Deferiprone
Fatigue, Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Joint pain, Diarrhea
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Expert advice for Deferiprone
- Seek immediate medical attention if you see symptoms of fever, sore throat, or flu as deferiprone can cause neutropenia (a decrease in white blood cells) or agranulocytosis (abnormal decrease in white blood cell count).
- Take precautions as deferiprone can lower the ability of your body to fight infections. Your blood will need to be tested weekly while you are taking this medication.
- Deferiprone may result in urine that is reddish-brown in color. This side effect is normal and usually not harmful.
- Take medical advice if you also have upper stomach pain, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes).
- Tell your doctor if you suffer from dizziness, palpitations, light-headedness, syncope, or seizures after taking deferiprone.
Frequently asked questions for Deferiprone
Deferiprone is used to reduce iron overload caused due to frequent blood transfusions in patients suffering from thalassemia (inherited autosomal recessive blood disorder) when other drugs like deferoxamine are inadequate or contraindicated
Deferiprone is a chelating agent. It binds to excess iron in body, promoting its removal from the body and preventing iron toxicity.