Desirox 500mg Tab

DESIROX 500MG TABLET

DESIROX 500MG TABLET, manufactured by Cipla Limited, is a medication primarily used to manage chronic iron overload.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: DESIROX 500MG TAB by CIPLA-NURTURE DIV (also simply referred to as Desirox 500 Tablet)
  • Common Name: Deferasirox

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 500 mg of Deferasirox as the active ingredient. Deferasirox is an iron-chelating agent that selectively binds to excess iron (as Fe3+) in the body and facilitates its removal through feces, thereby reducing the risk of organ damage.

• Uses:

  • DESIROX 500MG TABLET is indicated for the treatment of chronic iron overload resulting from repeated blood transfusions (transfusional hemosiderosis) in adult and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older.
  • It is also used for chronic iron overload in patients aged 10 years and older with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • DESIROX 500MG TABLET should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, preferably at the same time each day.
  • The tablets are dispersible and should be stirred in a glass of water, apple juice, or orange juice (100 to 200 mL) until a fine suspension is obtained. The suspension should be swallowed immediately. The tablets must not be chewed or swallowed whole.
  • The initial daily dose may be around 20-40 mg/kg body weight, as recommended by a doctor. Regular monitoring of iron levels and organ function is necessary to adjust the dosage.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, skin rashes, headache, constipation, itching, and increased liver enzymes.
  • Serious Side Effects: Decreased urine output, signs of liver problems (e.g., jaundice), high levels of ammonia, gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, changes in vision (e.g., blurred vision, partial loss of vision) or hearing (e.g., decreased hearing, hearing loss), severe skin reactions (e.g., erythema multiforme), and kidney problems. If any serious side effects occur, immediate medical attention is required.

• Precautions:

  • Do not use if allergic to deferasirox or any other ingredient.
  • Contraindicated in patients with severe kidney problems (creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min), low platelet levels, advanced cancer, or high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
  • Caution is advised in patients with liver problems; liver function should be monitored regularly.
  • Avoid concurrent use with aluminum-containing antacids. Use with caution if taking other medicines that can harm the kidneys (e.g., gentamicin, ciprofloxacin) or increase the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding (e.g., NSAIDs, corticosteroids, oral bisphosphonates, anticoagulants).
  • Consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding; the medicine is generally not recommended in these conditions unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.
  • Alcohol consumption is not advisable during treatment.
  • Patients should be monitored for blood counts, kidney, and liver function. DESIROX 500MG TABLET may cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place below 25°C or 30°C, away from sunlight and moisture.
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about Desirox 500mg Tablets:

What is Desirox 500mg Tablet used for?

Desirox 500mg Tablet, containing deferasirox, is primarily used to treat chronic iron overload. This condition often arises from frequent blood transfusions (known as transfusional hemosiderosis) in patients aged two years and older, including those with thalassemia, sickle cell disease, and myelodysplastic syndrome. It is also indicated for chronic iron overload in patients ten years and older with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes.

How does Desirox 500mg Tablet work?

Desirox 500mg Tablet works as an iron chelator. Its active ingredient, deferasirox, is a trivalent iron-selective chelating agent. It binds to the excess iron (Fe3+) in the body, forming a complex. This complex is then primarily excreted through the faeces, reducing the overall iron levels in the body and mitigating the risk of organ damage caused by excessive iron accumulation.

What is the usual dosage for Desirox 500mg Tablet?

The recommended daily dose of Desirox 500mg Tablet should be taken as directed by your doctor. The dosage can vary depending on individual factors, such as the severity of your condition and how you respond to the medication. It should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before food, preferably at the same time each day. The tablets should be dispersed by stirring in a glass of water, orange juice, or apple juice until a fine suspension is obtained. Do not chew or swallow the tablet whole.

What are the possible side effects of Desirox 500mg Tablet?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and skin rashes. Other reported side effects may include headache, constipation, itching, increased liver enzymes, and abdominal distension. More serious side effects, though less common, can involve kidney or liver problems, gastrointestinal bleeding, or visual/hearing impairment. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, you should consult your doctor.

Is Desirox 500mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, Desirox 500mg Tablet should generally be avoided unless specifically recommended by a doctor after a careful assessment of potential benefits versus risks, as there is limited information on its effect and some animal studies suggest potential harm. For breastfeeding, there is conflicting information; some sources suggest it's not recommended as it may pass into breast milk, while others indicate it may be safe if prescribed, though caution is generally advised. It is crucial to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can Desirox 500mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Caution is advised when taking Desirox 500mg Tablet with certain other medications. It should not be taken with aluminum-containing antacids. Particular care is needed if you are taking drugs that can increase the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, oral bisphosphonates, or blood thinners (anticoagulants like warfarin). Desirox may also interact with medicines metabolized by certain enzymes (like CYP3A4, CYP1A2, UGT inducers such as rifampicin), antidiabetic medications (e.g., repaglinide), and some bronchodilators (e.g., theophylline). Always inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Desirox 500mg Tablet?

Before starting Desirox 500mg Tablet, inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver problems, low platelet levels, an advanced form of cancer, or a high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Regular monitoring of kidney function (eGFR), liver function, and blood counts is essential during treatment. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver-related side effects. The medicine may cause dizziness or blurred vision, so it's advisable to avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.

What happens if a dose of Desirox 500mg Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Desirox 500mg Tablet be stored?

Desirox 500mg Tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The storage temperature should not exceed 30°C. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.