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Deferoxamine ( dee-fer-OKS-a-meen ) (Desferal®) What is this medication used for? Deferoxamine helps to remove excess iron from the body caused by chronic blood transfusions.
What does it look like? • Liquid solution How is it given?
Special instructions: • Blood or urine will be tested for levels of iron. • Use the medicine within 3 hours of mixing it. • Store the medicine at room temperature and away from direct light. • If this medicine is being injected under the skin or into a muscle, check the sites for signs of an infection, including redness, pain, and drainage. • A hearing test may be performed before this drug is started and while it is being taken. • This medication may interact with vitamin C. Talk to a healthcare provider before using the medication.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device • Under the skin (subcutaneous or subq) • Into the muscle (IM) What are the common side effects? • Blurred vision • Hearing loss or ringing in the ears • Pain at the injection site • Convulsions (seizures) • Difficulty with breathing or fast breathing • Fast heartbeat • Redness or flushing of the skin • Dizzy, drowsy, lightheadedness • Red color of urine (not a problem) What are the less common side effects? • Fever • Low blood pressure • Rash • Diarrhea • Leg cramps • Nausea/vomiting • Stomach or muscle cramps • Difficult urination
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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