Ferriprox (deferiprone) binds to iron and removes it from the blood stream.
Ferriprox is used to treat iron overload caused by blood transfusions.
Ferriprox may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Do not use Ferriprox if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. You should not use Ferriprox if you are allergic to deferiprone.
Before taking Ferriprox, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder, an electrolyte imbalance, a weak immune system, a history of Long QT syndrome, or if you take a diuretic (water pill).
Ferriprox can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. Your blood will need to be tested weekly while you are taking this medication. Your treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests. Visit your doctor regularly.
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cancer medicine, steroids, and medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection.
Serious and sometimes fatal infections may occur during treatment with Ferriprox. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as: fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, or sores in your mouth and throat.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Ferriprox if you are allergic to deferiprone.
To make sure you can safely take Ferriprox, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
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kidney disease;
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liver disease;
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congestive heart failure;
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a heart rhythm disorder;
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an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood);
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a weak immune system;
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a history of Long QT syndrome; or
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if you take a diuretic (water pill).
FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use Ferriprox if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether deferiprone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are taking Ferriprox. Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How should I take Ferriprox?
Take Ferriprox exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.
Ferriprox is usually taken 3 times per day. Take the first daily dose each morning, the second dose at mid-day, and the third dose in the evening.
Ferriprox may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
Ferriprox may cause your urine to turn a reddish-brown color. This side effect is usually not harmful. Call your doctor if you also have upper stomach pain, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes).
Ferriprox can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. Your blood will need to be tested weekly while you are taking this medication. Your treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests. Visit your doctor regularly.
Tell your doctor if you have any changes in your weight.
Store Ferriprox at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include vision problems, drowsiness, weakness, uncontrolled movement in your hands, or limp feeling.
What should I avoid?
Avoid taking an antacid or mineral supplement within 4 hours before or 4 hours after you take Ferriprox.
Avoid taking an herbal supplement containing milk thistle while you are taking Ferriprox.
Do not use other iron chelating medicines such as deferasirox (Exjade) or deferoxamine (Desferal), unless your doctor has told you to.
Ferriprox side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Ferriprox: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Serious and sometimes fatal infections may occur during treatment with Ferriprox. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as: fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, or sores in your mouth and throat.
Stop using Ferriprox and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
Less serious Ferriprox ide effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Ferriprox?
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cancer medicine, steroids, and medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection.
This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with Ferriprox. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
