Exjade (Deferasirox) is used to treat high levels of iron in the body caused by multiple blood transfusions in adults and children over the age of 2 years. This medication is also used to treat chronic iron overload caused by a certain blood disorder in adults and children over the age of 10 years old. Exjade belongs to a class of drugs known as iron-chelating agents. It works by binding to iron, allowing the body to pass extra iron out in the stool. Having extra iron in your body can cause problems such as heart failure, liver disease, and diabetes. Getting rid of extra iron can decrease the risk of these diseases.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Exjade dispersible table from Canada and Turkey by Novartis. The generic Deferasirox dispersible tablets come from Canada by a different manufacturer.
Seek emergency medical help if you have any signs of an allergic reaction to Exjade. The common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, skin rash, stomach pain, and vomiting.
The serious side effects may be more in common in older adults. Stop using Exjade and contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects:
• Changes in hearing;
• Liver or kidney problems;
• Low blood cell counts;
• Signs of bleeding in the stomach;
• Vision changes
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please call your doctor if you have any further concerns or questions.
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to Deferasirox, or any other medications prior to taking this drug. Also inform your doctor of your medical history, especially of kidney disease, liver disease, low platelet counts, advanced cancer, and certain bone marrow disorders involving damaged blood forming cells, and anemia. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take including prescription, nonprescription, herbal products, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Deferasirox and other medications. Some products that may interact with this drug include NSAIDs, and blood thinners. This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do any activity that requires you to be alert. Do not use other iron-chelating medications unless advised by your doctor. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant. You should not breast-feed while you are taking Exjade.
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