Ferriprox (Deferiprone)

Description

Ferriprox is prescribed to treat iron overload from blood transfusions in patients with thalassemia syndromes, sickle cell disease, or other anemias. Ferriprox is approved for use in adult and pediatric patients who are 8 years of age and older.

Ferriprox comes in oral tablets:

• Twice a day: 1000 mg with functional scoring
• Three times a day: 1000 mg with functional scoring
• Three times a day: 500 mg with functional scoring

Directions

Ferriprox should be taken as your doctor has directed. Any questions or concerns may be referred to your doctor or pharmacist.

The tablets are available in three different formulations. Your doctor will instruct you on how much medication you should take.

Ferriprox tablets should be kept between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F) and away from children.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Ferriprox is deferiprone.

Microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide are the inactive ingredients in the 500 mg tablets.

Hypromellose acetate succinate, magnesium oxide, colloidal silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate, triethyl citrate, talc, titanium dioxide, and methacrylic acid and ethyl acrylate copolymer are the inactive ingredients in the 1000 mg tablets (twice a day).

Methylcellulose, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, macrogol, and titanium dioxide are the inactive ingredients in the 1000 mg tablets (three times a day).

Contraindications

Ferriprox should be avoided in patients with an allergy to deferiprone or to any of the medication’s excipients.

Cautions

Ferriprox contains the following FDA Boxed Warning:

• Agranulocytosis can be caused by Ferriprox. This can result in serious infections and death. Neutropenia may occur before agranulocytosis develops.
• The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) should be measured before starting Ferriprox and regular monitoring should be performed during therapy.
• Ferriprox should be discontinued if neutropenia develops.
• Ferriprox should be discontinued if infection develops; the ANC should be monitored more frequently.
• Patients who develop any symptoms of an infection should speak with their doctor immediately.

• Before you begin treatment with Ferriprox, inform your doctor of:

• All the prescription and nonprescription medications you take, including supplements and vitamins
• Your allergies
• Your current health problems
• Your past medical history
• Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status

• Ferriprox may cause elevated liver enzymes. Monthly monitoring should occur.
• Ferriprox may cause a zinc deficiency that may warrant the need for supplements.
• Ferriprox may cause harm to an unborn fetus. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for at least 6 months after taking the last dose.

Side Effects

Ferriprox side effects include but are not limited to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, increased liver enzymes, abnormal white blood cell counts, fever, bone pain, headache, pain in the arms and legs, sickle cell anemia with crisis, back pain, mouth and throat pain, common cold, and cough. Immediately inform your doctor of any bothersome or persistent side effects you experience.

You can buy Ferriprox right here.

Reference

Ferriprox. Cary, NC: Chiesi USA, Inc.; 2021.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....