Deferoxamine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Deferoxamine mesylate for injection, USP, is indicated for the treatment of acute iron intoxication and of chronic iron overload due to transfusion-dependent anemias.
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 72348776…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
Deferoxamine mesylate for injection, USP, is indicated for the treatment of acute iron intoxication and of chronic iron overload due to transfusion-dependent anemias. Acute Iron Intoxication Deferoxamine mesylate is an adjunct to, and not a substitute for, standard measures used in treating acute iron intoxication, which may include the following: induction of emesis with syrup of ipecac; gastric lavage; suction and maintenance of a clear airway; control of shock with intravenous fluids, blood, oxygen, and vasopressors; and correction of acidosis. Chronic Iron Overload Deferoxamine mesylate can promote iron excretion in patients with secondary iron overload from multiple transfusions (as may occur in the treatment of some chronic anemias, including thalassemia). Long-term therapy with deferoxamine mesylate slows accumulation of hepatic iron and retards or eliminates progression of hepatic fibrosis. Iron mobilization with deferoxamine mesylate is relatively poor in patients under the age of 3 years with relatively little iron overload. The drug should ordinarily not be given to such patients unless significant iron mobilization (e.g., 1 mg or more of iron per day) can be demonstrate…
Conditions associated with Deferoxamine in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Deferoxamine used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Deferoxamine?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Deferoxamine require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Deferoxamine.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.