Drug Interaction Report

Talk to your doctor before using deferasirox together with sodium salicylate. Combining these medications may increase your risk of developing gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding. If you use sodium salicylate frequently or regularly (for example, to treat arthritis or chronic pain), you may also have an increased risk of kidney problems during treatment with deferasirox. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop severe abdominal pain, bloating, sudden dizziness or lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting (especially with blood), loss of appetite, and/or black, tarry stools. You should also seek medical attention if you experience signs and symptoms that may suggest kidney damage such as increased or decreased urination, sudden weight gain or weight loss, fluid retention, swelling, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and irregular heart rhythm. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids if you develop diarrhea or vomiting during treatment with these medications, as dehydration can also affect the kidney. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

You may experience reduced absorption of deferasirox in the presence of food. Take deferasirox on an empty stomach 30 minutes before eating preferably at the same time everyday unless otherwise directed by your doctor. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. The tablets should not be chewed or swallowed whole. The tablets should first be completely dispersed in water, orange juice, or apple juice, and the resulting suspension drunk immediately. After swallowing the suspension any residue should be resuspended in a small volume of the liquid and swallowed.