Indications

• Iron Overload (see Iron Overload, [[Iron Overload]])
  • FDA-approved for this indication since 2005

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Pharmacology

• Iron Chelation

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Administration

• PO: 20-30 mg/kg/day (once daily) dissolved in 8 ounces of water or juice
  • Take on an empty stomach (1 hr before or 2 hrs after meal)
  • Annual Cost (20 mg/kg/day for 60 kg adult): $39,000
  • Annual Cost (30 mg/kg/day for 60 kg adult): $58,500

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Adverse Effects

Gastrointestinal Adverse Effects

• Abdominal Cramps (see Abdominal Pain, [[Abdominal Pain]])
• Diarrhea (see Diarrhea, [[Diarrhea]])
• Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage (see Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage, [[Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage]])
• Nausea (see Nausea and Vomiting, [[Nausea and Vomiting]])

Hematologic Adverse Effects

• Thrombocytopenia (see Thrombocytopenia, [[Thrombocytopenia]])

Renal Adverse Effects

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) (see Acute Kidney Injury, [[Acute Kidney Injury]])

Other Adverse Effects

• Gritty Taste

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References

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