Deferasirox: how to take it safely
Exjade, Jadenu
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Removes extra iron from the body in people who have had many blood transfusions.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Exjade: stir the tablet in water or juice, and drink all of it. Do not chew or swallow it whole.
- Jadenu: swallow the tablet whole with water.
- Drink plenty of fluids. You will need regular blood tests.
When to take it
Take it once a day, at the same time.
Take it with
Exjade on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before food. Jadenu with or without a light meal.
What to avoid
- Antacids with aluminium within 2 hours.
- Missing blood tests. It can affect the kidneys and liver.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems.
Possible side effects
Nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, rash, raised kidney tests.
Get help if
Very little urine, yellow skin or eyes, black stools, severe stomach pain, vomiting blood or hearing changes: see a doctor straight away.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.