Deferiprone
Deferiprone is an oral iron chelating agent used to treat iron overload in patients with thalassemia and other conditions requiring chronic blood transfusions. It works by binding to excess iron in the body and facilitating its excretion through urine. This medication is typically used when other chelation therapies are not suitable or have been ineffective.
Deferiprone is an oral iron-chelating medication used to remove excess iron from the body in patients with iron overload disorders such as thalassemia.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V03AC02
- RxNorm
- 11645
- Generic
- Deferiprone
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- Ferriprox
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- solution, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Deferiprone is indicated for the treatment of iron overload in patients with thalassemia major and other transfusion-dependent anemias. It is commonly used when deferoxamine is contraindicated, not tolerated, or has been insufficient in managing iron levels.
Deferiprone is a bidentate chelating agent with high affinity for ferric ions (Fe3+). It selectively binds to iron forming stable, neutral 3:1 (deferiprone:iron) complexes that remain soluble at physiological pH, allowing for efficient urinary excretion of the bound iron.
Requires regular monitoring of complete blood counts (risk of agranulocytosis), liver function, and serum ferritin levels. Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity. Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation. May cause gastrointestinal disturbances and joint pain. Drug interactions may occur with other chelating agents or aluminum-containing products.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy