Sequential Deferoxamine - Deferasirox in Treatment of Major Thalassemia with Iron Overload

Abstract Background Iron overload is a major problem in patients with major thalassemia. An effective and safe iron chelator protocol with high compliance rate plays an important role in treatment of these patients. This study was done to assess the efficacy and safety of the sequential deferoxamine and deferasirox protocol in major thalassemia patients in Khuzestan province, Iran. Material and Method Sixty two patients were studied aged between 2 to 30 years old. A regimen consisted of 4 days deferasirox followed by 3 days deferoxamine. The duration of trial was 6 months. The efficacy was determined by comparison of ferritin level before and after treatment. Results Serum ferritin changed from 3590 ng/ml to 2563 ng /ml, which decreased significantly. During study 21% of patients experienced at least one side effect. Conclusion This is a new regimen with high efficacy, low toxicity and acceptable compliance.