deferiprone

Deferiprone is an oral iron chelator used to treat transfusional iron overload in patients with thalassemia syndromes and other anemias when current chelation therapy is inadequate. It works by binding to ferric ions (iron III) in the body, forming a stable complex that is then excreted primarily via urine. Deferiprone has a higher selectivity for iron compared to other metals such as zinc, copper, and aluminum. The drug is available as tablets and oral solution for administration by mouth[1][3][6]. Its primary indication is the reduction of excess iron due to frequent blood transfusions in conditions like thalassemia syndromes and sickle cell disease[1][5]. A notable risk associated with deferiprone use includes agranulocytosis/neutropenia, which can lead to serious infections; therefore, regular monitoring of absolute neutrophil count (ANC) during therapy is required[2][9].

Brand names

FerriproxFerriprox Twice-A-DayFerriprox Three-Times-A-DayDeferiprone Three-Times-A-Day

Other names

3-hydroxy-1,2-dimethylpyridin-4(1H)-one (chemical name)