Deferoxamine

Definition

Deferoxamine is a chelating agent used to treat acute iron poisoning and chronic iron overload, particularly in patients receiving repeated blood transfusions. It works by binding to free iron in the bloodstream, forming a complex that can be excreted by the kidneys, thereby reducing iron toxicity and preventing damage to organs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deferoxamine is typically administered intravenously or intramuscularly and is not absorbed well from the gastrointestinal tract, making oral administration ineffective.
2. It is most commonly used in patients with thalassemia and other conditions requiring frequent blood transfusions, which can lead to iron overload.
3. The drug can cause side effects such as hypotension, allergic reactions, and auditory or visual disturbances due to its action on free iron.
4. Monitoring of renal function is essential during treatment since the chelation complex is excreted through the kidneys.
5. Deferoxamine has a specific affinity for ferric ions (Fe³⁺) and has been used experimentally for other conditions like aluminum toxicity.

Review Questions

• How does deferoxamine function as a treatment for iron overload in patients with thalassemia?
  • Deferoxamine functions by binding to excess iron in the bloodstream, forming a stable complex that can be easily excreted by the kidneys. In patients with thalassemia who receive multiple blood transfusions, this excess iron accumulates in various organs, leading to toxicity. By administering deferoxamine, healthcare providers help reduce the body's iron burden and minimize potential damage to vital organs such as the heart and liver.
• Discuss the potential side effects of deferoxamine therapy and how they might impact patient management.
  • Deferoxamine therapy can lead to side effects such as hypotension, allergic reactions, and disturbances in auditory or visual perception. These side effects may necessitate careful monitoring of patients during treatment. If significant side effects occur, clinicians may need to adjust the dosing schedule or consider alternative chelating agents. It’s important for healthcare providers to weigh the benefits of reducing iron overload against the risks of these potential adverse effects.
• Evaluate the role of deferoxamine in managing iron overload compared to other chelating agents available today.
  • Deferoxamine plays a crucial role in managing iron overload, especially in patients with conditions requiring frequent transfusions. However, newer oral chelating agents like deferasirox have emerged, offering more convenient dosing and improved patient adherence. While deferoxamine remains effective for acute cases or when rapid removal of iron is needed, evaluating each patient's specific needs and potential side effects is essential for optimal management. Comparing efficacy, safety profiles, and patient quality of life will guide clinicians in choosing the best chelation therapy.

Related terms

Chelation: A chemical process where a substance forms multiple bonds to a single metal ion, effectively removing it from the body.

Iron Overload: A medical condition resulting from excessive accumulation of iron in the body, often due to repeated blood transfusions or genetic disorders.

Ferritin: A protein that stores iron in the body and releases it in a controlled fashion, playing a key role in iron homeostasis.