Deferoxamine
Deferoxamine is an iron-chelating agent used to treat acute iron poisoning and chronic iron overload conditions. It works by binding to excess iron in the body, forming a water-soluble compound that can be excreted through the kidneys. This medication is commonly used in patients who require frequent blood transfusions, such as those with thalassemia or sickle cell disease, to prevent organ damage from iron accumulation.
Deferoxamine is an iron-chelating injection medication that removes excess iron from the body in patients with iron overload conditions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- V03AC01
- RxNorm
- 3131
- Generic
- Deferoxamine
- Class
- atc-v03
- Brands
- Desferal
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- 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.
Deferoxamine is used to treat acute iron poisoning (accidental or intentional ingestion) and chronic iron overload from repeated blood transfusions, such as in patients with thalassemia major, sickle cell disease, and other transfusion-dependent anemias. It may also be used in patients with iron accumulation from conditions like hemochromatosis.
Deferoxamine is a siderophore that selectively binds to trivalent iron ions (Fe3+), forming a stable, water-soluble complex called ferrioxamine. This iron-chelator complex is then excreted primarily through the kidneys, effectively reducing total body iron stores and preventing iron-related organ damage.
Deferoxamine is typically administered by subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection. It is not effective when taken orally. Side effects may include injection site reactions, auditory and visual disturbances with long-term use, and rare allergic reactions. Patients require regular monitoring of iron levels, kidney function, and hearing/vision. It should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Unlike newer oral iron chelators, deferoxamine requires frequent injections and longer infusion times, which can impact quality of life for patients requiring chronic therapy.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy