MedPath
FDA Approval

Deferasirox

January 17, 2024

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Deferasirox(180 mg in 1 1)

Products (3)

Deferasirox

0591-4735

ANDA214180

ANDA (C73584)

ORAL

January 17, 2024

LACTOSE MONOHYDRATEInactive
Code: EWQ57Q8I5XClass: IACT
POLOXAMER 188Inactive
Code: LQA7B6G8JGClass: IACT
Code: V8G4MOF2V9Class: ACTIBQuantity: 180 mg in 1 1
MAGNESIUM STEARATEInactive
Code: 70097M6I30Class: IACT
POVIDONE K30Inactive
Code: U725QWY32XClass: IACT
SILICON DIOXIDEInactive
Code: ETJ7Z6XBU4Class: IACT
MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE 101Inactive
Code: 7T9FYH5QMKClass: IACT
CROSPOVIDONEInactive
Code: 2S7830E561Class: IACT

Deferasirox

0591-4730

ANDA214180

ANDA (C73584)

ORAL

January 17, 2024

Code: V8G4MOF2V9Class: ACTIBQuantity: 90 mg in 1 1
SILICON DIOXIDEInactive
Code: ETJ7Z6XBU4Class: IACT
LACTOSE MONOHYDRATEInactive
Code: EWQ57Q8I5XClass: IACT
MAGNESIUM STEARATEInactive
Code: 70097M6I30Class: IACT
POLOXAMER 188Inactive
Code: LQA7B6G8JGClass: IACT
MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE 101Inactive
Code: 7T9FYH5QMKClass: IACT
CROSPOVIDONEInactive
Code: 2S7830E561Class: IACT
POVIDONE K30Inactive
Code: U725QWY32XClass: IACT

Deferasirox

0591-4740

ANDA214180

ANDA (C73584)

ORAL

January 17, 2024

Code: V8G4MOF2V9Class: ACTIBQuantity: 360 mg in 1 1
MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE 101Inactive
Code: 7T9FYH5QMKClass: IACT
MAGNESIUM STEARATEInactive
Code: 70097M6I30Class: IACT
SILICON DIOXIDEInactive
Code: ETJ7Z6XBU4Class: IACT
POLOXAMER 188Inactive
Code: LQA7B6G8JGClass: IACT
CROSPOVIDONEInactive
Code: 2S7830E561Class: IACT
LACTOSE MONOHYDRATEInactive
Code: EWQ57Q8I5XClass: IACT
POVIDONE K30Inactive
Code: U725QWY32XClass: IACT

Drug Labeling Information

BOXED WARNING SECTION

WARNING: RENAL FAILURE, HEPATIC FAILURE, and GASTROINTESTINAL HEMORRHAGE


CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

Deferasirox was evaluated in healthy subjects. There are no clinical data in patients with deferasirox. Deferasirox oral granules contain the same active ingredient as deferasirox tablets for oral suspension. The following information is based on clinical trials conducted with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension.

Transfusional Iron Overload

The primary efficacy study, Study 1 (NCT00061750), was a multicenter, open- label, randomized, active-comparator control study to compare deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and deferoxamine in patients with beta-thalassemia and transfusional hemosiderosis. Patients greater than or equal to 2 years of age were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either oral deferasirox tablets for oral suspension at starting doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, or 30 mg per kg once daily or subcutaneous deferoxamine at starting doses of 20 mg to 60 mg per kg for at least 5 days per week based on LIC at baseline (2 to 3, greater than 3 to 7, greater than 7 to 14, and greater than 14 mg Fe/g dry weight). Patients randomized to deferoxamine who had LIC values less than 7 mg Fe/g dry weight were permitted to continue on their prior deferoxamine dose, even though the dose may have been higher than specified in the protocol.

Patients were to have a liver biopsy at baseline and end of study (after 12 months) for LIC. The primary efficacy endpoint was defined as a reduction in LIC of greater than or equal to 3 mg Fe/g dry weight for baseline values greater than or equal to 10 mg Fe/g dry weight, reduction of baseline values between 7 and less than 10 to less than 7 mg Fe/g dry weight, or maintenance or reduction for baseline values less than 7 mg Fe/g dry weight.

A total of 586 patients were randomized and treated, 296 with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and 290 with deferoxamine. The mean age was 17.1 years (range, 2 to 53 years); 52% were females and 88% were Caucasian. The primary efficacy population consisted of 553 patients (deferasirox tablets for oral suspension n = 276; deferoxamine n = 277) who had LIC evaluated at baseline and 12 months or discontinued due to an adverse reaction. The percentage of patients achieving the primary endpoint was 52.9% for deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and 66.4% for deferoxamine. The relative efficacy of deferasirox to deferoxamine cannot be determined from this study.

In patients who had an LIC at baseline and at end of study, the mean change in LIC was -2.4 mg Fe/g dry weight in patients treated with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and -2.9 mg Fe/g dry weight in patients treated with deferoxamine.

Reduction of LIC and serum ferritin was observed with deferasirox tablet for oral suspension doses of 20 to 30 mg per kg per day. Deferasirox tablets for oral suspension doses below 20 mg per kg per day failed to provide consistent lowering of LIC and serum ferritin levels (Figure 1). Therefore, a starting dose of 20 mg per kg per day is recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].

Figure 1. Changes in Liver Iron Concentration and Serum Ferritin Following Deferasirox Tablets for Oral Suspension (5 to 30 mg per kg per day) in Study 1

1

Study 2 (NCT00061763) was an open-label, noncomparative trial of efficacy and safety of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension given for 1 year to patients with chronic anemias and transfusional hemosiderosis. Similar to Study 1, patients received 5, 10, 20, or 30 mg per kg per day of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension based on baseline LIC.

A total of 184 patients were treated in this study: 85 patients with beta- thalassemia and 99 patients with other congenital or acquired anemias (myelodysplastic syndromes, n = 47; Diamond-Blackfan syndrome, n = 30; other, n = 22). Nineteen percent (19%) of patients were less than 16 years of age and 16% were greater than or equal to 65 years of age. There was a reduction in the absolute LIC from baseline to end of study (-4.2 mg Fe/g dry weight).

Study 3 (NCT00067080) was a multicenter, open-label, randomized trial of the safety and efficacy of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension relative to deferoxamine given for 1 year in patients with sickle cell disease and transfusional hemosiderosis. Patients were randomized to deferasirox tablets for oral suspension at doses of 5, 10, 20, or 30 mg per kg per day or subcutaneous deferoxamine at doses of 20 to 60 mg per kg per day for 5 days per week according to baseline LIC.

A total of 195 patients were treated in this study: 132 with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension and 63 with deferoxamine. Forty-four percent (44%) of patients were less than 16 years of age and 91% were black. At end of study, the mean change in LIC (as measured by magnetic susceptometry by a superconducting quantum interference device) in the per protocol-1 (PP-1) population, which consisted of patients who had at least 1 post- baseline LIC assessment, was -1.3 mg Fe/g dry weight for patients receiving deferasirox tablets for oral suspension (n = 113) and -0.7 mg Fe/g dry weight for patients receiving deferoxamine (n = 54).

One-hundred five (105) patients with thalassemia major and cardiac iron overload were enrolled in a study assessing the change in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2* value (measured in milliseconds, [ms]) before and after treatment with deferasirox. Cardiac T2* values at baseline ranged from 5 to less than 20 ms. The geometric mean of cardiac T2* in the 68 patients who completed 3 years of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension therapy increased from 11.98 ms at baseline to 17.12 ms at 3 years. Cardiac T2* values improved in patients with severe cardiac iron overload (less than 10 ms) and in those with mild to moderate cardiac iron overload (greater than or equal to 10 to less than 20 ms). The clinical significance of these observations is unknown.

Six hundred twenty-seven (627) patients with MDS were enrolled across 5 uncontrolled trials. Two hundred thirty-nine of the 627 patients were enrolled in trials that limited enrollment to patients with IPSS Low or Intermediate 1 risk MDS, and the remaining 388 patients were enrolled in trials that did not specify MDS risk stratification but required a life expectancy of greater than 1 year. Planned duration of treatment in these trials ranged from 1 year (365 patients) to 5 years (47 patients). These trials evaluated the effects of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension therapy on parameters of iron overload, including LIC (125 patients) and serum ferritin (627 patients). The percent of patients completing planned duration of treatment was 51% in the largest 1-year study, 52% in the 3-year study and 22% in the 5-year study. The major causes for treatment discontinuation were withdrawal of consent, adverse reaction, and death. Over 1 year of follow-up across these pooled studies, mean change in serum ferritin was -332.8 (± 2615.59) mcg/L (n = 593) and mean change in LIC was -5.9 (± 8.32) mg Fe/g dw (n = 68). Results of these pooled studies in 627 patients with MDS suggest a progressive decrease in serum ferritin and LIC beyond 1 year in those patients who are able to continue deferasirox tablets for oral suspension.

Study 4 (TELESTO; NCT 00940602) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled trial performed in 225 patients with MDS (Low/Int-1 risk) and transfusional iron overload of which 149 were treated with deferasirox and 76 received placebo. The observed hazard ratio of 0.64 (95% CI: 0.42, 0.96) suggests a positive impact of deferasirox on event-free survival (EFS, a composite endpoint defined as death, worsening cardiac function, hospitalization for congestive heart failure, liver function impairment, liver cirrhosis, or progression to acute myeloid leukemia; whichever occurred first).

Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia

Study 5 (NCT00873041) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of treatment with deferasirox tablets for oral suspension for patients 10 years of age or older with NTDT syndromes and iron overload. Eligible patients had an LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw measured by R2 MRI and a serum ferritin exceeding 300 mcg/L at screening (2 consecutive values at least 14 days apart from each other). A total of 166 patients were randomized, 55 to the deferasirox tablets for oral suspension 5 mg/kg/day dose group, 55 to the deferasirox tablets for oral suspension 10 mg/kg/day dose group, and 56 to placebo (28 to each matching placebo group). Doses could be increased after 6 months if the LIC exceeded 7 mg Fe/g dw and the LIC reduction from baseline was less than 15%. The patients enrolled included 89 males and 77 females. The underlying disease was beta-thalassemia intermedia in 95 (57%) patients, HbE beta-thalassemia in 49 (30%) patients, and alpha-thalassemia in 22 (13%) patients. There were 17 pediatric patients in the study. Caucasians comprised 57% of the study population and Asians comprised 42%. The median baseline LIC (range) for all patients was 12.1 (2.6 to 49.1) mg Fe/g dw. Follow-up was for 1 year. The primary efficacy endpoint of change in LIC from baseline to Week 52 was statistically significant in favor of both deferasirox dose groups compared with placebo (p less than or equal to 0.001) (Table 5). Furthermore, a statistically significant dose effect of deferasirox was observed in favor of the 10 mg/kg/day dose group (10 versus 5 mg/kg/day, p = 0.009). In a descriptive analysis, the target LIC (less than 5 mg Fe/g dw) was reached by 15 (27%) of 55 patients in the 10 mg/kg/day arm, 8 (15%) of 55 patients in the 5 mg/kg/day arm and 2 (4%) of 56 patients in the combined placebo groups.

Study 6 (NCT00873041) was an open-label trial of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension for the treatment of patients previously enrolled on Study 5, including cross-over to active treatment for those previously treated with placebo. The starting dose of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension in Study 6 was assigned based on the patient’s LIC at completion of Study 5, being 20 mg/kg/day for an LIC exceeding 15 mg Fe/g dw, 10 mg/kg/day for LIC 3 to 15 mg Fe/g dw, and observation if the LIC was less than 3 mg Fe/g dw. Patients could continue on 5 mg/kg/day if they had previously exhibited at least a 30% reduction in LIC. Doses could be increased to a maximum of 20 mg/kg/day after 6 months if the LIC was more than 7 mg Fe/g dw and the LIC reduction from baseline was less than 15%. The primary efficacy endpoint in Study 6 was the proportion of patients achieving an LIC less than 5 mg Fe/g dw. A total of 133 patients were enrolled. Twenty patients began Study 6 with an LIC less than 5 mg Fe/g dw. Of the 113 patients with a baseline LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw in Study 6, the target LIC (less than 5 mg Fe/g dw) was reached by 39 patients (35%). The responders included 4 (10%) of 39 patients treated at 20 mg/kg/day for a baseline LIC exceeding 15 mg Fe/g dw, and 31 (51%) of 61 patients treated at 10 mg/kg/day for a baseline LIC between 5 and 15 mg Fe/g dw. The absolute change in LIC at Week 52 by starting dose is shown in Table 5 below.

Study 7 (NCT01709838) was an open-label, single-arm, multi-center, 5-year study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension in iron overloaded patients with NTDT of 10 years of age or older. All patients started treatment on 10 mg/kg/day deferasirox tablets for oral suspension for four weeks. At Week 4, dose escalation was based on baseline LIC. At Week 24 and every 6 months thereafter, further dose adjustments were made according to the LIC at that visit. Treatment was interrupted when LIC < 3 mg Fe/g dw or serum ferritin < 300 ng/mL and was re-started at 10 mg/kg/day when LIC ≥ 5 mg Fe/g dw and serum ferritin ≥ 300 ng/mL. Throughout the study, the maximum dose of deferasirox tablets for oral suspension given was 30 mg/kg/day.

A total of 134 patients were enrolled in the study. Eligible patients were required to have an LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw measured by R2 MRI and a serum ferritin at least of 300 ng/mL at screening. The mean absolute change of LIC from Baseline to Week 52 was -6.7 mg Fe/g dw. The reduction in LIC was sustained until Week 260 (5 years) with the mean absolute change in LIC from Baseline to Week 260 of -10.6 mg Fe/g dw. In the subset of patients with Baseline LIC > 15 mg Fe/g dw (49 patients), 51.0% achieved a first LIC < 5 mg Fe/g dw (95% CI: 37.5, 64.4) with a median time of 28.6 months. In the subset of patients with target LIC of < 3 mg Fe/g dw (61 patients), 39.3% developed first LIC ≥ 5 mg Fe/g dw in the follow-up period, with a median time of 13.9 months.

Table 5. Absolute Change in LIC at Week 52 in Patients with NTDT

Deferasirox Tablets for Oral Suspension Starting Dose****a

Placebo

5 mg/kg/day

10 mg/kg/day

20 mg/kg/day

Study 5****b

Number of Patients

n = 54

n = 51

n = 54

Mean LIC at Baseline (mg Fe/g dw)

16.1

13.4

14.4

Mean Change (mg Fe/g dw)

+0.4

-2.0

-3.8

(95% Confidence Interval)

(-0.6, +1.3)

(-2.9, -1.0)

(-4.8, -2.9)

Study 6

Number of Patients

n = 8

n = 77

n = 43

Mean LIC at Baseline (mg Fe/g dw)

5.6

8.8

23.5

Mean Change (mg Fe/g dw)

-1.5

-2.8

-9.1

(95% Confidence Interval)

(-3.7, +0.7)

(-3.4, -2.2)

(-11.0, -7.3)

Study 7

Number of Patients

-

-

n = 127

-

Mean LIC at Baseline (mg Fe/g dw)

-

-

15.1

-

Mean Change (mg Fe/g dw)

-

-

-6.7

-

(95% Confidence Interval)

-

-

(-7.9, -5.5)

-

Abbreviation: LIC, liver iron concentration; NTDT, non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia.

aRandomized dose in Study 5 or assigned starting dose in Study 6 and Study 7.

bLeast square mean change for Study 5.


OVERDOSAGE SECTION

10 OVERDOSAGE

Cases of overdose (2 to 3 times the prescribed dose for several weeks) have been reported. In one case, this resulted in hepatitis which resolved without long-term consequences after a dose interruption. In one pediatric case, a dose of 2 to 3 times the prescribed dose for 6 days resulted in acute renal failure requiring hemofiltration and acute liver injury/failure, which were reversible with intensive care support. Single doses of deferasirox up to 80 mg per kg per day with the tablet for oral suspension formulation in iron- overloaded beta-thalassemic patients have been tolerated with nausea and diarrhea noted. In healthy subjects, single doses of up to 40 mg per kg per day with the tablet for oral suspension formulation were tolerated.

Early signs of acute overdose are digestive effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Hepatic and renal disorders have been reported, including cases of liver enzyme and creatinine increased with recovery after treatment discontinuation. An erroneously administered single dose of 90 mg/kg led to Fanconi syndrome which resolved after treatment.

There is no specific antidote for deferasirox. In case of overdose, it may be treated with induction of vomiting or gastric lavage, and by symptomatic treatment.


INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

Dosing Instructions

Advise patients to take deferasirox oral granules by sprinkling the full dose on soft food (e.g., yogurt or applesauce) immediately prior to use and administered orally. Advise patients to take deferasirox oral granules once a day, preferably at the same time each day. Deferasirox oral granules may be taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal (contains less than 7% fat content and approximately 250 calories). Examples of light meals include 1 whole wheat English muffin, 1 packet jelly (0.5 ounces), and skim milk (8 fluid ounces) or a turkey sandwich (2 oz. turkey on whole wheat bread w/ lettuce, tomato, and 1 packet mustard).

Blood Testing

Advise patients that blood tests will be performed frequently to check for damage to kidneys, liver, or blood cells [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5)].

Acute Kidney Injury, Including Acute Renal Failure

Caution patients about the potential for kidney toxicity when taking deferasirox oral granules. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of kidney injury. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any of these symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Hepatic Toxicity and Failure

Caution patients about the potential for hepatic toxicity when taking deferasirox oral granules. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of hepatic toxicity. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any of these symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

GI Ulceration and Hemorrhage

Caution patients about the potential for the development of GI ulcers or bleeding when taking deferasirox oral granules in combination with drugs that have ulcerogenic or hemorrhagic potential, such as NSAIDs, corticosteroids, oral bisphosphonates, or anticoagulants. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of GI ulcers or bleeding. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider for symptoms of heartburn but to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of GI hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Allergic Reactions

Serious allergic reactions (which include swelling of the throat) have been reported in patients taking deferasirox oral granules, usually within the first month of treatment. If reactions are severe, advise patients to stop taking deferasirox oral granules immediately and seek immediate medical attention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Severe Skin Reactions

Severe skin reactions have been reported in patients taking deferasirox oral granules. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of severe skin reactions. If reactions are severe, advise patients to stop taking deferasirox oral granules immediately and seek immediate medical attention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

Skin Rash

Skin rashes may occur during deferasirox treatment. If the skin rash is severe, advise patients to stop taking deferasirox oral granules and seek medical attention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Pediatric Patients with Acute Illness

Instruct pediatric patients and their caregivers to contact their healthcare provider during episodes of acute illness, especially if the patient has not been drinking fluids or the patient has volume depletion due to fever, vomiting, or diarrhea [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Auditory and Ocular Testing

Because auditory and ocular disturbances have been reported with deferasirox, conduct auditory testing and ophthalmic testing before starting deferasirox treatment and thereafter at regular intervals. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they develop visual or auditory changes during treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

Drug Interactions

Caution patients not to take aluminum containing antacids and deferasirox oral granules simultaneously [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Caution patients about potential loss of effectiveness of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., cyclosporine, simvastatin, hormonal contraceptive agents) when deferasirox is administered with these drugs [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].

Caution patients about potential loss of effectiveness of deferasirox oral granules when administered with drugs that are potent UGT inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ritonavir). Based on serum ferritin levels and clinical response, consider increases in the dose of deferasirox oral granules when concomitantly used with potent UGT inducers [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Caution patients about potential loss of effectiveness of deferasirox oral granules when administered with drugs that are bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol). Based on serum ferritin levels and clinical response, consider increases in the dose of deferasirox oral granules when concomitantly used with bile acid sequestrants [see Drug Interactions (7.6)].

Caution patients with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels more frequently when repaglinide is used concomitantly with deferasirox [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].

Handling Instructions

Advise patients to store deferasirox oral granules in a dry, room-temperature environment [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].

Driving and Using Machines

Caution patients experiencing dizziness to avoid driving or operating machinery [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Manufactured In Canada By:
Teva Canada Limited
****Toronto, Canada M1B 2K9

Manufactured For:
Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.
****Parsippany, NJ 07054

Rev. B 1/2024

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION

MEDICATION GUIDE

Deferasirox (dee fer′ a sir ox) Oral Granules

What is the most important information I should know about deferasirox oral granules?

Deferasirox oral granules can cause serious side effects, including:

Kidney problems: Deferasirox oral granules can cause sudden (acute) kidney problems, including kidney failure that may require treatment with dialysis, and may cause death. Deaths have happened mostly in people who also have other health problems and had a blood disorder that was in an advanced stage. Adults and children who already have kidney problems and are taking certain medicines with deferasirox oral granules may also have an increased risk of sudden kidney problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.

Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your or your child’s kidney function before and during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.Call your healthcare provider right away if:

***your child becomes sick with fever, vomiting, or diarrhea and cannot drink fluids normally during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.**Your child may be dehydrated. Your healthcare provider may need to temporarily stop treatment with deferasirox oral granules and treat your child for dehydration to help prevent kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may monitor your child’s kidney function more closely. *you notice that you or your child are passing less urine than usual during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.

Liver problems.Deferasirox oral granules can cause liver problems, including liver failure that can sometimes cause death. Liver problems with deferasirox oral granules may be more common in people who are over 55 years of age but can also happen in children. Liver failure has happened more often in people with cirrhosis of the liver and failure of other organs. Liver failure has also happened along with kidney problems in certain children who become dehydrated. See “Kidney problems” above.

Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your liver function before you start and regularly during treatment with deferasirox oral granules**. Call your healthcare provider right away,**if you develop any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • drowsiness
  • upper right stomach-area (abdomen) pain
  • yellowing or increased yellowing of your skin or eyes
  • dark urine

**Bleeding, ulcers, and tears of the stomach or intestine.**Severe stomach and intestine bleeding (hemorrhage) that have caused death have happened in some people treated with deferasirox oral granules, especially in elderly people who have advanced blood cancers or low platelet counts. Some people have also had ulcers of the stomach or intestine, sometimes with tears (perforation) that have caused death. In some people who have taken deferasirox oral granules, including children and adolescents, irritation of the upper gastrointestinal tract, ulcers, and bleeding have happened, but did not cause death.

Your risk of severe bleeding (hemorrhage) may be increased if you take deferasirox oral granules along with other medicines that can cause ulcers or bleeding, such as:

  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • corticosteroids
  • certain osteoporosis medicines called oral bisphosphonates
  • blood thinner medicines

Before you start taking deferasirox oral granules, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking one of these medicines. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure. If you develop an ulcer of the stomach or intestine, or severe bleeding, your healthcare provider may stop deferasirox oral granules.

Elderly people may be at a higher risk of developing serious side effects and death due to serious side effects with deferasirox oral granules. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor you more closely during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.

  • Tell your healthcare provider if you get heartburn during treatment with deferasirox oral granules. *Get emergency medical help right away if you vomit blood or pass black or bloody stools, or if you have severe stomach-area (abdomen) pain during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.

See “What are the possible side effects of deferasirox oral granules?” for more information about side effects.

What are deferasirox oral granules?

Deferasirox oral granules are a prescription medicine used to treat:

  • people 2 years of age and older who have an increased amount of iron in their blood for a long period of time (chronic), caused by repeated blood transfusions
  • certain people 10 years of age or older with thalassemia who have an increased amount of iron in their blood but who are not receiving regular blood transfusions

It is not known if deferasirox oral granules are safe and effective when used with other medicines to treat an increased amount of iron in the blood.

It is not known if deferasirox oral granules are safe and effective for treating children under 2 years of age who have an increased amount of iron in their blood for a long period of time (chronic) caused by repeated blood transfusions.

It is not known if deferasirox oral granules are safe and effective for treating children under 10 years of age with thalassemia who have an increased amount of iron in their blood, but who are not receiving regular blood transfusions.

Do not take deferasirox oral granules if you:

  • have certain kidney problems
  • have high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
  • have advanced cancer
  • have a low platelet count
  • are allergic to deferasirox or any of the ingredients in deferasirox oral granules. See the end of this medication guide for a list of the ingredients in deferasirox oral granules.

Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you have any of the medical conditions listed above.

Before taking deferasirox oral granules tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have kidney problems
  • have liver problems
  • have advanced cancer.See “Do not take deferasirox oral granules if you:”
  • have a blood disorder that may increase your risk for bleeding
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if deferasirox oral granules can harm your unborn baby. Hormonal forms of birth control may not be as effective if used during treatment with deferasirox oral granules. You could become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider about other birth control options that you can use during this time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if deferasirox passes into your breast milk and can harm your baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take deferasirox oral granules or breastfeed. You should not do both.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take,including prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines may affect how deferasirox oral granules work, and deferasirox oral granules may affect how other medicines work. Also, your risk of sudden kidney problems or severe bleeding may be increased if you take deferasirox oral granules with certain medicines. See “What is the most important information I should know about deferasirox oral granules?”

  • Avoid taking the following medicines during treatment with deferasirox oral granules:
    • antacid products (medicines used to treat heartburn) that contain aluminum
    • theophylline
    • certain medicines to lower your cholesterol, called bile acid sequestrants.

Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you take one of these medicines. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider or pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

How should I take deferasirox oral granules?

  • Take deferasirox oral granules exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. *Do notchange your dose of deferasirox oral granules or stop taking unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
  • Deferasirox comes as oral granules.
    • You may take deferasirox oral granules on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Examples of a light meal include:
      • 1 whole wheat English muffin, 1 packet of jelly (0.5 ounce), and skim milk (8 fluid ounces), or
      • A turkey sandwich (2 ounces of turkey on whole wheat bread with lettuce, tomato, and 1 packet of mustard)

Taking deferasirox oral granules:

  • Sprinkle the prescribed dose of granules onto soft food such as yogurt or applesauce right before taking your dose.

  • Take the sprinkles and soft food by mouth.

  • Do not take deferasirox oral granules with aluminum-containing antacid products. See “Before taking deferasirox oral granules”.

  • Tell your healthcare provider if you or your child gain or lose any weight. Your or your child’s dose of deferasirox oral granules may need to be adjusted.

  • If you take the diabetes medicine repaglinide during treatment with deferasirox oral granules you may need to test your blood sugar (glucose) levels more often. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about how often to test your blood sugar during this time.

  • Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests before, and during treatment to check how you respond to deferasirox oral granules, and to monitor you for side effects. Your healthcare provider may change your dose, or temporarily or permanently stop deferasirox oral granules if you have certain side effects.

  • In people who have thalassemia, your healthcare provider will check the amount of iron in your liver before and during treatment with deferasirox oral granules.

  • If you or your child take too much deferasirox oral granules, call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Symptoms that can happen if you take too much deferasirox oral granules include: stomach-area (abdominal) pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

What should I avoid while taking deferasirox oral granules?

  • Deferasirox oral granules may cause dizziness**.**Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how deferasirox oral granules affect you. Do not drive or operate machinery if deferasirox oral granules make you dizzy.

What are the possible side effects of deferasirox oral granules?

Deferasirox oral granules can cause serious side effects, including:

*See "What is the most important information I should know about deferasirox oral granules?" ***Effects on your bone marrow.**Deferasirox oral granules can affect your bone marrow and cause you to have low white blood cell count which can be serious, decreased platelets, or worsening of your anemia, and may lead to death. Your risk for effects on your bone marrow may be increased if you already have other blood disorders. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts for these problems. ***Serious allergic reactions.**Deferasirox oral granules may cause serious allergic reactions, which usually start within the first month of treatment.Get medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including:

  • difficulty in breathing or swallowing
  • chest pain
  • rapid heartbeat
  • feeling faint
  • swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • severe itching of the skin with a red rash or raised bumps
  • hives

***Skin rash and severe skin reactions.**Skin rashes are common with deferasirox oral granules. If you get a more severe rash, your healthcare provider may temporarily stop deferasirox oral granules.
Severe skin reactions can also happen with deferasirox oral granules and can be life-threatening or lead to death. Get medical help right away if you develop any one or more of the following signs and symptoms of a severe skin reaction, including:

  • rash or red skin
  • blisters on your lips, or around your mouth or eyes
  • mouth sores
  • skin peeling
  • high fever or flu-like symptoms
  • enlarged lymph nodes

***Hearing and vision problems.**Deferasirox oral granules can cause decreased hearing and changes in your vision including cataracts, increased pressure in your eye, and problems with your retinas. Your healthcare provider should do hearing and vision tests before you start and then regularly during treatment. Your healthcare provider may decrease your dose or stop deferasirox oral granules if you develop hearing or vision problems.

The most common side effects in anyone who takes deferasirox oral granules include: diarrhea and nausea.

Other common side effects in people with too much iron in their blood due to repeated blood transfusions include: vomiting, stomach-area (abdomen) pain, and an abnormal kidney function blood test.

These are not all the possible side effects of deferasirox oral granules. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store deferasirox oral granules?

  • Store deferasirox oral granules at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

Keep deferasirox oral granules and all medicines out of the reach of children.

General information about the safe and effective use of deferasirox oral granules

Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use deferasirox oral granules for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give it to other people, even if they have the same symptoms you have. It may harm them. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information about deferasirox oral granules.

What are the ingredients in deferasirox oral granules?

**Active ingredient:**deferasirox

**Inactive ingredients:**colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, poloxamer (188), and povidone (K30).

Manufactured In Canada By:**Teva Canada Limited,**Toronto, Canada M1B 2K9

Manufactured For:**Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.,**Parsippany, NJ 07054

For more information contact Teva at 1-888-838-2872.

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Rev. B 1/2024


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