Deferiprone oral tablets

What is this medicine?

DEFERIPRONE (de FER ip rone) binds to iron in the blood. It helps to prevent and treat too much iron in the blood caused by blood transfusions.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Avoid taking this medicine within 4 hours of foods, mineral supplements, or antacids that contain iron, aluminum, or zinc. Do not take with alcohol. You can take this medicine with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• signs and symptoms of infection like fever or chills; cough; sore throat; pain or trouble passing urine

• signs and symptoms of liver injury like dark yellow or brown urine; general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea; right upper belly pain; unusually weak or tired; yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• headache

• joint pain

• red or dark-brown urine

• stomach pain

• upset stomach

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• antacids

• diclofenac

• iron supplements

• medicines that lower your chance of fighting infection

• milk thistle or silymarin

• probenecid

• zinc supplements

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• infection

• low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts

• an unusual or allergic reaction to deferiprone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check ups. You may need blood work done while taking this medicine.

Your urine might show a red or brown discoloration during treatment. This is a very common sign of the desired effect of this medicine, and it is not harmful.