Deferiprone is the generic name for the anti-chelation drug Ferriprox, according to the Virtual Medical Centre. It is a synthetic compound invented in Essex, England, according to the "Journal of The American Society of Hematology" and is also sometimes also marketed under the name Kelfer. More widely available abroad than in the United States, it is a lower cost alternative to deferoxamine.
Discolored Urine
Deferiprone moves through the body for excretion primarily in the urine, according to the "Journal of The American Society of Hematology". Virtual Medical Centre reports that those taking the drug will see reddish or brown-colored urine, which is considered a harmless side effect.
Nausea
According to the Virtual Medical Centre, nausea and vomiting are one of the most common side effects of taking deferiprone.
Gastrointestinal Distress
There are several types of gastrointestinal discomfort and distress associated with deferiprone use, notes the Virtual Medical Centre. This includes stomach pain, changes in appetite, indigestion and diarrhea.
Joint Pain
According to the Virtual Medical Centre, joint pain is a common side effect of deferiprone. Researchers with the "Journal of The American Society of Hematology" found in a large clinical study of 187 patients that about 13 percent of patients taking deferiprone experienced joint pain, and that large joints are the most likely to be affected by the drug.
Hepatoxicity
Hepatoxicity, a change in the liver enzyme levels, is linked to deferiprone use. According to the "Journal of The American Society of Hematology", while there are no published reports of liver failure by patients taking deferiprone, liver enzyme levels still need to be monitored throughout a course of treatment. The effect is the greatest at three to six months of use but levels off after one year, Researchers noted that in users of up to four years, levels were stable.
Agranulocytosis
Agranulocytosis is the most serious side effect of deferiprone use. Virtual Medical Centre notes that this severe reduction of white blood cell levels can lead to serious infection or death if left untreated. Researchers noted that agranulocytosis can recur, so if this side effect appears once, deferiprone should not be used again.
Zinc Deficiency
Zinc deficiency is considered to be one of the less common side effects of deferiprone use, according to the Virtual Medical Centre. The "Journal of The American Society of Hematology" notes that this is more common in patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes than other patients.
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