Ferriprox
Generic name:deferiprone [ de-FER-i-prone ]
Drug classes:Antidotes, Chelating agents
What is Ferriprox?
Ferriprox binds to iron and removes it from the bloodstream.
Ferriprox is used to treat iron overload caused by blood transfusions in people with thalassemia syndrome or sickle cell disease, which are hereditary red blood cell disorders.
Ferriprox may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Ferriprox if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Both men and women using this medicine should use effective birth control. Women should keep using birth control for at least 6 months after the last dose. Men should keep using birth control for at least 3 months after the last dose.
Stop using Ferriprox and call your doctor right away if you have signs of infection such as: fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, skin sores, 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 Ferriprox is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
liver disease; or
a weak immune system.
It is not known whether deferiprone will harm an unborn baby. Both men and women using this medicine should use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy.
If you are a woman, you may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 6 months after your last dose.
If you are a man, use effective birth control if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using birth control for at least 3 months after your last dose.
Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs while either the mother or the father is using Ferriprox.
You should not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.
Ferriprox tablets are used in adults and children 8 years of age and older.
Ferriprox Oral Solution is used in adults and children 3 years of age and older.
How should I take Ferriprox?
Take Ferriprox exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
There are two types of Ferriprox tablets that are taken on different schedules, either 2 times a day, or 3 times a day. Be sure you are taking the correct tablet and ask your healthcare provider if unsure.
If you are taking the tablets twice a day, take the first dose in the morning .
