Why is this medication prescribed?  

Deferasirox is used to remove excess iron that is in the body because of blood transfusions. Deferasirox is in a class of medications called iron chelators. It works by attaching to iron molecules in the body so they can be excreted (removed from the body) in feces.

How should this medicine be used?  

Deferasirox comes as a tablet for suspension (a tablet to dissolve in liquid) to take by mouth. It should be taken on an empty stomach once a day, at least 30 minutes before food. Take deferasirox at around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take deferasirox exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Do not chew or swallow the tablets whole.

To take the tablets for suspension, follow these steps:

• Place the number of tablets your doctor has told you to take in a cup.
• If you are taking less than 1000 mg of deferasirox, fill the cup halfway (about 3.5 oz) with water, apple juice, or orange juice. If you are taking more than 1000 mg of deferasirox, fill the cup (about 7 oz) with water, apple juice, or orange juice. If you are not sure how much deferasirox you are to take, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• Stir the liquid until the tablet(s) is/are totally dissolved.
• Drink the liquid immediately.
• Add a small amount of liquid to the empty cup and stir.
• Drink the rest of the liquid.

Other uses for this medicine     

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to deferasirox. Your doctor may adjust your dose of deferasirox every 3 to 6 months.You will need to have hearing and eye exams before starting deferasirox and once a year while taking this medication.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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