What is deferoxamine mesylate used for?

It is used to treat iron poisoning and to remove extra iron caused by frequent blood transfusions in people with chronic anemia.

Can deferoxamine mesylate cause vision problems?

Yes, long-term use or high doses of deferoxamine mesylate may lead to eye toxicity or vision changes.

Is deferoxamine mesylate safe for children?

It is approved for children 3 years and older, but doctors must monitor their growth closely.

What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to deferoxamine mesylate?

Seek medical help immediately, as the drug can cause severe allergic reactions, especially if given quickly through a vein.

Does deferoxamine mesylate affect my kidneys?

Yes, it can cause kidney failure or other kidney issues, so doctors will monitor your kidney function.

Can I take Vitamin C while on deferoxamine mesylate?

You should be careful because taking Vitamin C with this drug may cause heart dysfunction.

What happens if I overdose on deferoxamine mesylate?

There is no specific antidote, so medical staff will provide supportive care and may use dialysis to remove it.

Can deferoxamine mesylate be used for primary hemochromatosis?

No, it is not indicated for primary hemochromatosis because blood removal is the preferred treatment for that condition.

Deferoxamine | CAS 70-51-9 | UBQYURCVBFRUQT

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Iron chelating agent (antidote for iron poisoning)

Deferoxamine mesylate is an iron-chelating agent used to treat iron poisoning and excess iron buildup caused by frequent blood transfusions in patients with chronic anemia. It works by binding to iron in the body so it can be removed. It is not used to treat primary hemochromatosis, as blood removal (phlebotomy) is preferred for that condition.

How it worksDeferoxamine mesylate acts as a chelating agent, meaning it grabs onto excess iron in the bloodstream and tissues so the body can get rid of it.

Brand names:Deferoxamine mesylate

Used for

Acute iron poisoning (as an extra treatment alongside standard measures)Iron buildup from frequent blood transfusions in people with chronic anemia

Conditions

Iron poisoningChronic anemia with iron overload

Class

Chelating AgentAntidoteIron chelating agent (antidote for iron poisoning)CirculatoryDigestiveGenitourinaryHematologicHepaticMusculoskeletalNervousOcularRespiratory

How to take

FormsInjection

RoutesIntramuscular, Intravenous, Subcutaneous

The dose is based on body weight and the severity of iron overload. For adults, the maximum daily dose is 60 mg/kg/day, and for children, it is 40 mg/kg/day. The minimum dose is 20 mg/kg/day for both adults and children.

The dosage and how it is given must be decided by a healthcare provider based on the specific needs of the patient and the amount of iron in their system.

Key warnings

·Allergic reactions can happen, especially if the drug is given quickly into a vein.
·Long-term use or high doses may damage your hearing or your eyes.
·This drug can cause kidney damage; doctors should monitor your kidney function.
·High doses given through a vein may cause severe breathing problems.
·In children, high doses or low iron levels can cause issues with growth.

Do not use if

·History of allergic reactions to deferoxamine or its ingredients.
·Severe kidney disease or inability to urinate (anuia).

Side effects

Common

Injection site reactions (local or systemic)Allergic reactionsInfections (such as Yersinia or Mucormycosis)Heart-related issuesStomach or digestive problemsChanges in blood countsLiver issuesMuscle or bone issuesUrinary or kidney issuesNervous system changesBreathing problemsEye or vision changesHearing changes

Serious

·Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
·Vision or hearing loss
·Kidney failure or kidney disorders
·Severe breathing problems (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)
·Growth suppression in children
·Heart dysfunction (especially if taken with Vitamin C)
·Loss of consciousness

Seek help if

·Allergic reactions
·Changes in vision or hearing
·Difficulty breathing
·Changes in urination

Interactions

·Taking prochlorperazine with deferoxamine mesylate may cause temporary loss of consciousness.
·Gallium-67 imaging results may be wrong because the drug causes the body to flush it out through urine very quickly. Stop using the drug 48 hours before this type of imaging.

FoodTaking Vitamin C while using this drug may cause heart dysfunction.

Special populations

PregnancyThere is no data on how deferoxamine mesylate affects pregnant women. Animal studies showed risks to the mother and the developing fetus. Pregnant women should be aware of these potential risks.

PediatricIt is safe and effective for children 3 years and older with iron poisoning or iron overload from transfusions. It is not recommended for children under 3 unless a doctor sees significant iron movement in their system. Doctors should monitor a child's height and weight every 3 months.

GeriatricThere isn't enough data on people over 65, but reports suggest older adults might have a higher risk of eye problems (like color blindness) and hearing loss. Doctors usually start with a lower dose for elderly patients.

Talk to your doctor

Monitor

·Kidney function
·Hearing
·Vision
·Weight and height (in children)
·Allergic reactions

Questions to ask

·How will my kidney function be monitored while taking deferoxamine mesylate?
·Should I have regular hearing and vision tests?
·Are there specific vitamins, like Vitamin C, I should avoid?
·How will my child's growth be tracked during treatment?

Pharmacokinetics

ExcretionThe drug and the iron chelate are primarily excreted by the kidney.

Practical

OverdoseThere is no specific antidote for an overdose. If an overdose occurs, stop the medication and provide supportive care to manage symptoms. The drug can be removed through dialysis.

Educational summary derived from FDA labeling, AI-assisted. Not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional. Updated 2026-04-26.