What does it do?

Deferoxamine is used to treat conditions where there is too much iron or aluminium in the blood.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How is it given?

Deferoxamine is given as an infusion under the skin or into a vein, or an injection into a muscle.

What if you forget a dose?

Keep your appointment for your deferoxamine injection. If you are unable to attend contact the clinic staff as soon as possible.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with deferoxamine including:

• prochlorperazine
• supplements containing aluminium (e.g. Alu-Tab®), iron (e.g. Ferro-Tab®) or vitamin C (e.g. Centrum®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing Fast or irregular heartbeat Reduced number of blood cells that help your blood to clot - symptoms include: easy or unusual bruising or bleeding Changes in vision Hearing loss, ringing in the ears	Tell your doctor immediately
Headache Fever, flushing Joint, muscle or bone aches and pains Irritation or pain at injection site Nausea	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Deferoxamine may turn your pee a red-brown colour – this is harmless.