Desferal (Deferoxamine) Patient Information: Missed a Dose and What Should I Avoid at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Desferal

Hemochromatosis (Iron Overload) »

What is hereditary hemochromatosis?

Hereditary hemochromatosis is an inherited (genetic) disorder in which there is excessive accumulation of iron in the body (iron overload). It is a common genetic disorder among Caucasians in the United States, affecting approximately one in 240 to 300 Caucasians. Individuals affected with hereditary hemochromatosis may have no symptoms or signs (and have normal longevity), or they can have severe symptoms and signs of iron overload that include sexual dysfunction, heart failure, joint pains, liver cirrhosis , diabetes mellitus, fatigue, and darkening of skin.

The normal iron content of the body is three to four grams. The total amount of iron in the body is carefully controlled. The body loses one mg of iron daily from sweat and cells that are shed from the skin and the inner lining of the intestines. Women also lose one mg of iron daily on average from. In normal adults the intestines absorb one m...

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Desferal

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Desferal Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose

What happens if I miss a dose (Desferal)?

Since deferoxamine is most often used only when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are using the medication regularly, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose (Desferal)?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a deferoxamine overdose may include slow or fast heart rate, nausea or stomach discomfort, headache, problems with speech or vision, pale skin, feeling drowsy or agitated, urinating less than usual, feeling light-headed, fainting, or coma.

What should I avoid while using deferoxamine (Desferal)?

Deferoxamine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What other drugs will affect deferoxamine (Desferal)?

Before using deferoxamine, tell your doctor if you are also using prochlorperazine (Compazine) or a vitamin C supplement. You may not be able to use deferoxamine, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs that can affect deferoxamine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist has information about deferoxamine written for health professionals that you may read.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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