Desferrioxamine
Desferrioxamine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Desferrioxamine is a brand name. Its generic name is Deferoxamine.
Introduction
Desferrioxamine (also known as desferrioxamine or DFOA) is a chelation therapy drug used primarily to treat heavy metal poisoning, specifically iron overload caused by conditions like thalassemia or other hemoglobinopathies. It is also used in some cases of lead poisoning.
Uses
Desferrioxamine is FDA-approved for reducing iron overload due to transfusional hemosiderosis and for the treatment of iron poisoning, including accidental ingestion, overdose, and intentional pediatric poisoning.
Mechanism of Action
Desferrioxamine (Desferrioxamine) works by binding to and sequestering iron in the body, which prevents it from participating in metabolic reactions and producing toxic effects. Desferrioxamine is a chelation drug, meaning it binds to the metals, which are then excreted from the body in the urine.
How Long Does it Take to Work
The effects of Desferrioxamine vary from patient to patient, but typically it takes about 12 to 24 hours for the drug to be fully effective. Depending on the severity of the iron overload, additional treatments may be required.
Absorption
Desferrioxamine is administered by subcutaneous (SQ) or intravenous (IV) infusion, which allows for efficient absorption into the bloodstream.
Route of Elimination
Desferrioxamine is eliminated primarily via urine, and smaller amounts are eliminated via sweat and bile.
Dosage
The dosage of Desferrioxamine depends on the age of the patient, severity of iron overload, and other individual factors. Typically, it is administered at a dosage of 20 to 60 mg/kg/day. If given intravenously, the patient must receive an additional 20-60 mg/kg/day for at least 12 hours.
Administration
Desferrioxamine is administered intravenously or subcutaneously. If given intravenously, the patient must remain still during the infusion. If given subcutaneously, the patient must inject the solution into a large muscle.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Desferrioxamine include nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, leg cramps, tiredness and/or weakness, and skin rash.
Toxicity
Desferrioxamine is generally well-tolerated, but high dosages can be toxic, including liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and renal toxicity.
Precaution
Desferrioxamine should be used with caution in patients with heart failure, hepatic or renal impairment, and allergies to other drugs.
Interaction
Desferrioxamine interacts with some other medications, including anticoagulants, antiarrhythmic agents, diuretics, and immunosuppressives. Consult a healthcare provider before taking Desferrioxamine with any other drugs.
Disease Interactions
Desferrioxamine can interact with certain diseases, including pregnancy, lactation, heart failure, and renal or hepatic impairment. Consult a healthcare provider before taking Desferrioxamine if any of these conditions apply.
Drug Interactions
Desferrioxamine can interact with certain drugs, including anticoagulants, antiarrhythmic agents, diuretics, and immunosuppressives. Consult a healthcare provider before taking Desferrioxamine with any other drugs.
Food Interactions
There are no known food interactions with Desferrioxamine, but patients should avoid alcohol and caffeine when taking this medication.
Pregnancy Use
Desferrioxamine is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. If a pregnant woman is taking Desferrioxamine, she should be monitored closely for any signs of fetal distress.
Lactation Use
Desferrioxamine is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women unless the potential benefit outweighs the risk. If a breastfeeding woman is taking Desferrioxamine, she should be monitored closely for any signs of adverse reactions in her infant.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of Desferrioxamine can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, weakness, and/or difficulty breathing.
Contraindication
Desferrioxamine should not be used in patients who are hypersensitive to the drug or any of its components.
Use Direction
Desferrioxamine should be administered according to the directions given by a healthcare provider. It is typically administered intravenously or subcutaneously.
Storage Condition
Desferrioxamine should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Desferrioxamine is 2.3 to 2.4 liters per kilogram of body weight.
Half Life
The half-life of Desferrioxamine is about 2-5 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of Desferrioxamine is 21-25 mL/min/kg.
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