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Deferasirox ( de-FUR-uh-si-rocks ) (Exjade®, Jadenu®) What is this medication used for?
This medicine works by attaching to iron in the body so that it can be removed by the kidneys. It is used to treat patients who have too much iron in their body from receiving many blood transfusions and is intended for patients age 2 and older. This medication belongs to the class of iron chelators.
What does it look like? • Exjade®: Round dissolvable tablet or liquid suspension • Jadenu®: Tablet or granules (sprinkles that can be added to soft food) How is it given? • Exjade® • Tablet—Dissolves in water, apple juice, or orange juice. The tablet will dissolve in a small amount of liquid. All residue needs to be taken; none should be left on the side of the cup. • Suspension—Shake bottle well and stir liquid prior to drinking; take on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes prior to eating. • Jadenu® • Tablet—Should be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with soft foods. The entire mixture should be taken. • Granules—Can be added to soft food. What are the common side effects? • Nausea
What are the less common side effects? • Hearing loss (e.g., loss of high-frequency tones and decreased hearing ability) • Visual disturbances (e.g., cataracts, increased ocular pressure) • Dizziness • Significant increase in liver and kidney function • Lower blood cell counts • Allergic reactions Special instructions: • Do not take antacids with this medication. • Blood cell counts, ferritin level, and liver and kidney function should be monitored monthly. • The dose may need to be changed if there is a significant increase in liver and kidney function. • Hearing and vision should be tested prior to starting the medication and periodically while taking it. • Birth control pills may not work while taking this medication. Use other forms of contraception. • There is no information about effects when breastfeeding. Discuss this with a healthcare provider. • Do not take other medications, even over the counter meds, without informing healthcare provider. This medication has interactions with many other medications.
• Vomiting • Diarrhea • Mild skin rash • Abnormal liver or kidney function test results • Stomach pain
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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