Feripon 500

Presentation:

• Each tablet contains 500 mg of Deferiprone INN.  

   

Indications:

• Treatment of iron overload in patients with thalassemia major when deferoxamine therapy is contraindicated or inadequate.  
• Feripon therapy should be initiated and maintained by a physician experienced in the treatment of patients with thalassemia.  

Dosage and Administration:

• Adults and children over 6 years: The usual dose is 25 mg/kg body weight orally three times daily.
• Doses above 100 mg/kg daily are not recommended.  
• May be taken with or without food.  
• Or, as directed by a registered physician.

Pharmacology:

• Deferiprone is a chelating agent with a high affinity for ferric ions (iron III).It binds with ferric ions to form stable, neutral 3:1 (deferiprone:iron) complexes over a wide pH range.Deferiprone has a lower binding affinity for other metals such as copper, aluminum, and zinc compared to iron. This complex is then excreted, mainly in the stools.  

Side Effects:

• Common: Gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Reddish-brown discoloration of the urine (chromaturia). Arthralgia (joint pain). Increased liver enzymes.
• Less Common: Fatigue, headache.
• Rare: Neutropenia, including agranulocytosis (monitor neutrophil count weekly and discontinue treatment if it develops).

Precautions:

• Caution is advised in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
• The safety of concurrent use of Feripon and Vitamin C has not been formally studied; caution should be used.
• Should not be given with aluminum-containing antacids.
• May lower the body's ability to fight infections; patients should report any symptoms of fever, sore throat, or flu.  

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to deferiprone or any of the excipients.
• Agranulocytosis.  
• Pregnancy and lactation.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

• Pregnancy Category D: There is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk in certain situations (e.g., life-threatening or serious diseases where safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective).  
• Feripon is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.  

Storage:

• Keep below 30°C, away from light and moisture.  
• Keep out of the reach of children.

Therapeutic Class:

• Antidote preparations.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.