Deferoxamine (DB00746): A Comprehensive Pharmacological and Clinical Monograph

1.0 Executive Summary & Introduction

1.1 Overview

Deferoxamine, also known by its chemical name desferrioxamine and the brand name Desferal, is a hexadentate chelating agent with a long and established history in clinical medicine.[1] It is classified as a small molecule drug with the DrugBank identification number DB00746 and CAS Number 70-51-9.[2] The primary therapeutic application of Deferoxamine is the management of metal toxicity, specifically as a first-line parenteral antidote for acute iron intoxication and as a cornerstone therapy for chronic iron overload resulting from conditions that necessitate frequent blood transfusions, such as thalassemia and sickle cell disease.[1] Furthermore, it is employed in an off-label capacity for the treatment of aluminum toxicity, particularly in patients with renal failure undergoing dialysis.[1] The molecule itself is a natural siderophore, a high-affinity iron-chelating compound, isolated from the actinomycete

Streptomyces pilosus.[2] This biological origin is fundamental to its potent and specific therapeutic action.

1.2 Historical and Clinical Context