Desferal 500mg Injection
By Desferal
Rx
1 Injection in a Vial

Composition
Deferoxamine(500mg)

Manufacturer - Novartis India Ltd
Sandoz House, Shiv Sagar Estate, Worli Mumbai -400 018, India

Expires on or after
April, 2026
About Desferal 500mg Injection
Desferal 500mg Injection is a medication used to treat chronic iron overload resulting from frequent blood transfusions. The medicine works by removing excess iron from the body, thereby reducing the risk of organ damage. It belongs to a group of medications known as 'chelating agents' and contains Deferoxamine, an iron-binding agent that forms a stable complex with trivalent iron, preventing further chemical reactions and facilitating the elimination of excess iron by the kidneys and gallbladder.
This injection is mainly prescribed for patients aged 2 years and older who suffer from anemia or chronic iron overload due to blood transfusions. It can also be used in conjunction with other medicines to manage acute iron poisoning, particularly in young children. Additionally, Desferal 500mg Injection may benefit individuals with high aluminum levels in dialysis patients or those suffering from aluminum poisoning.
It is crucial to note that Desferal 500mg Injection should only be administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. Common side effects that may arise from the use of this medication include flushing, skin rash, decreased blood pressure, change in urine color, headache, upset stomach, diarrhea, muscle or joint pain, and irritation at the injection site. While most of these side effects tend to resolve on their own over time, it is advisable to inform your doctor if they persist.
To ensure optimal treatment outcomes, it is essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage of Desferal 500mg Injection as directed by your doctor. Abruptly discontinuing the medication can lead to recurring symptoms. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid taking this medication unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. Regular monitoring through blood tests, kidney and liver assessments, eye examinations, and hearing tests may be recommended by your healthcare provider.
It is recommended to abstain from consuming alcohol while using Desferal 500mg Injection, as it could exacerbate drowsiness and dizziness. To mitigate the risk of potential adverse effects, it is essential to communicate openly with your doctor about your health status and any other medications you may be taking.
Benefits
Desferal 500mg Injection offers several benefits for individuals dealing with iron overload. Iron overload occurs when there is an excess of iron in the body, which can lead to serious conditions such as cancer, irregular heartbeat, and liver cirrhosis. By using Desferal 500mg Injection, the excess iron can be safely decreased by removing it from the body through stools. This process helps to reduce the risk of organ damage and prevents further complications associated with iron overload. Deferoxamine, the active ingredient in Desferal 500mg Injection, acts as an iron-chelating agent, meaning it helps to bind and eliminate excess iron from the body. It forms a stable complex that hinders further chemical reactions involving iron and aluminum ions, facilitating their elimination by the kidneys and gallbladder. This mechanism of action not only reduces the iron levels in the body but also reduces the risk of organ damage. Desferal 500mg Injection is particularly beneficial for individuals with high iron levels due to conditions like blood transfusions or acute iron intoxication. It is important to note that Desferal 500mg Injection should only be administered by a healthcare professional and patients should follow their doctor's instructions carefully to maximize the benefits of this medication. By effectively managing iron overload, Desferal 500mg Injection plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health and well-being of individuals at risk of iron-related complications.
How to use the Desferal 500mg Injection
To use Desferal 500mg Injection, you should always have a healthcare professional like a doctor or a nurse administer the injection. It is crucial that you do not try to administer the injection yourself. Instead, rely on a trained professional to give you the injection correctly. By following this important guideline, you can ensure the safe and effective use of Desferal 500mg Injection to treat your condition.
Uses of Desferal 500mg Injection
Desferal 500mg Injection is primarily used for treating conditions related to iron overload. It is particularly beneficial in cases of transfusion-dependent thalassemia, a condition where the body accumulates excess iron due to frequent blood transfusions. In addition, Desferal 500mg Injection is also used for iron intoxication, a potentially serious situation where high levels of iron have been ingested or absorbed by the body. This medication helps to remove the excess iron from the body, thereby reducing the risk of complications associated with iron overload.
What conditions Desferal 500mg Injection treats?
Desferal 500mg Injection is used to treat iron intoxication, which is caused by excessive iron levels in the blood leading to acute toxicity. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Severe cases can result in iron accumulation in organs like the liver or brain, causing fatal damage. Iron poisoning can harm the gastrointestinal system due to the excess iron. Iron is crucial for blood production, but too much can be harmful to the body.
Should you consult a doctor?
You should seek medical help if you experience any persistent side effects while using Desferal 500mg Injection. These side effects include flushing (a warm sensation in the face, ears, neck, and body), rash, decreased blood pressure, and abdominal pain. While most side effects may disappear as your body gets used to the medication, it is essential to consult your doctor if they continue or if you have concerns about them. It is important not to self-administer this injection and to always have it administered by a healthcare professional. If you notice any unusual symptoms or if you feel unwell after receiving the injection, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance and appropriate medical attention. Your doctor will be able to assess your condition and provide necessary guidance to ensure your well-being.
Side effects of Desferal 500mg Injection
When taking Desferal 500mg Injection, some common side effects might occur, but these usually do not need medical attention and will go away as your body gets used to the medication. However, if these side effects persist or if you are concerned about them, it is important to consult your doctor. Some possible side effects include flushing, which is a warm sensation felt in the face, ears, neck, and trunk. Skin rash may also occur. Another side effect could be decreased blood pressure, which may lead to hypotension. You might notice a change in the color of your urine to red, along with experiencing headaches and abdominal pain. Other possible side effects include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle or joint pain, and irritation at the site where the injection was given. If you have any concerns about these side effects, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Safety advice

liver
Limited information is available on the use of Desferal 500mg Injection in patients with liver disease. It is important to consult your doctor before using this medication if you have a liver condition.

kidney
Desferal 500mg Injection should be used carefully in patients with kidney disease. Adjusting the dose may be necessary. Consult your doctor before use. Avoid in those with severe kidney disease.

alcohol
"Consult your doctor when consuming alcohol with Desferal 500mg Injection."

driving
Desferal 500mg Injection may cause side effects like dizziness or vision impairment, affecting your ability to drive. Refrain from driving if you experience these symptoms.

pregnancy
Desferal 500mg Injection may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will consider the benefits and risks before prescribing it. Please consult your doctor before using.

breastfeeding
Desferal 500mg Injection is likely safe while breastfeeding. Minimal data shows no major risks to the baby.
Consumption warning before consuming Desferal 500mg Injection
Before using Desferal 500mg Injection, do not proceed if you are allergic to Deferoxamine or any of its components. Disclose to your doctor if you have severe kidney issues requiring dialysis, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or any fungal infection. Avoid Desferal 500mg Injection if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding without a doctor's approval. In children under 3 and adolescents, growth complications may arise, necessitating frequent growth monitoring while on Desferal 500mg Injection. Routine eye and hearing tests may be recommended due to potential effects on vision and hearing. Seniors aged 65 and above may experience heightened sensitivity to side effects, particularly related to eyesight and hearing. Consult your doctor before taking multivitamins, natural supplements, or diet aids concurrently. If treating high iron levels, your doctor may suggest supplementing with vitamin C after a month to aid in iron elimination. Desferal 500mg Injection should not be combined with vitamin C in cases of heart failure to prevent adverse reactions. Notify your doctor and lab staff about your Desferal 500mg Injection use as it may impact certain lab tests. In the case of aluminum poisoning, inform your doctor about seizures, low calcium levels, or hyperparathyroidism.
Disease interactions
When considering Desferal 500mg Injection, it is crucial to be aware of potential interactions with certain health conditions. This medication should not be administered to individuals with renal dysfunction, auditory dysfunction, hepatic impairment, ocular dysfunction, or respiratory distress syndrome. Patients with these conditions may be at an increased risk of experiencing adverse effects from Desferal 500mg Injection. It is important for healthcare providers to thoroughly evaluate a patient's medical history and current health status before prescribing this medication to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What if you forgot to take Desferal 500mg Injection?
If you forget to take a dose of Desferal 500mg Injection, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, just skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Related lab tests
Related Lab Tests
When taking Desferal 500mg Injection, it is important to monitor certain lab tests to ensure the medication is working effectively and to prevent any potential complications. The following lab tests are commonly used in conjunction with Desferal injections:
1. Iron Serum: This test measures the amount of iron in your blood. It helps to determine if your body has too much or too little iron, which is essential for managing conditions related to iron overload or deficiency.
2. Iron Studies: This set of tests provides more detailed information about your body's iron levels, including serum iron, transferrin saturation, and ferritin levels. Iron studies are important for diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as anemia or hemochromatosis.
3. Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): TIBC measures the ability of a protein in the blood to bind with iron. This test helps to evaluate how much transferrin, a protein that transports iron in the blood, is available to bind with iron. TIBC levels can be helpful in diagnosing various iron-related disorders.
These lab tests are crucial for healthcare providers to assess your iron levels accurately and adjust the treatment plan accordingly when receiving Desferal 500mg Injections. Regular monitoring of these tests can help ensure the medication is effectively managing iron levels in the body and prevent any potential complications.
Additional Information
Habit Forming | No |
Chemical Class | Acetohydroxamic acids derivative |
Therapeutic Class | - |
Action Class | Iron chelating agents |
FAQs
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is to the best of our abilities to ensure it is accurate, reliable, and reviewed by a team of professionals. It should not be used to diagnose, prevent, or cure any health problem. The information presented here is not intended to create a doctor-patient relationship or replace a registered medical practitioner's advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The absence or provision of any information or warning regarding any medicine should not be assumed as an implied or explicit assurance of safety or efficacy. We highly recommend consulting your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on the content encountered on our website. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.
₹167.63
Inclusive of all taxes
Content verified by

Dr. Mansi Chaudhari
MBBS - General Medicine
Last update on 11-Feb-2025