Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Deferiprone (DFP)

Deferiprone is an iron chelator that binds and removes excess iron from the body, reducing iron-induced tissue damage.

Deferiprone is an iron chelator that binds and removes excess iron from the body, reducing iron-induced tissue damage. Used for Iron overload in patients with thalassemia major, Iron overload in other chronic transfusion-dependent anemias.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Deferiprone is a bidentate chelating agent that forms stable complexes with ferric iron (Fe³⁺), facilitating its urinary excretion. By reducing labile iron pools and preventing iron-catalyzed free radical formation, it mitigates oxidative damage to organs such as the heart and liver in patients with chronic iron overload.

Approved indications

• Iron overload in patients with thalassemia major
• Iron overload in other chronic transfusion-dependent anemias

Common side effects

• Agranulocytosis
• Neutropenia
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, abdominal pain)
• Arthralgia
• Elevated liver enzymes

Key clinical trials

• Conservative Iron Chelation as a Disease-modifying Strategy in Parkinson's Disease (PHASE2)
• Conservative Iron Chelation as a Disease-modifying Strategy in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (PHASE2, PHASE3)
• Study of Parkinson's Early Stage With Deferiprone (PHASE2)
• Efficacy/Safety Study of Deferiprone Compared to Deferasirox in Paediatric Patients (PHASE3)
• Long-term Deferiprone Treatment in Patients With Pantothenate Kinase-Associated Neurodegeneration (PHASE3)
• Efficacy and Safety Study of Deferiprone in Patients With Pantothenate Kinase-associated Neurodegeneration (PKAN) (PHASE3)
• Pharmacokinetic Study of Deferiprone in Paediatric Patients (PHASE2)
• Evaluation of the Safety, Efficacy, and Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous Deferiprone in HIV-Positive Subjects (PHASE1)

Primary sources

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