Drug Interaction Report

Deferasirox may increase the blood levels of PACLitaxel. This can increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, hair loss, muscle pain or weakness, nerve damage, and impaired bone marrow function resulting in low numbers of different types of blood cells. You may also be more likely to develop anemia, bleeding problems, or infections due to low blood cell counts. Contact your doctor if you experience paleness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, pain or burning during urination, vision problems, and/or numbness, burning or tingling in your hands and feet. You may need a dose adjustment and/or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. 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.

Grapefruits and grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels and effects of PACLitaxel. This can increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, hair loss, muscle pain or weakness, nerve damage, and impaired bone marrow function resulting in low numbers of different types of blood cells. You may also be more likely to develop anemia, bleeding problems, or infections due to low blood cell counts. Contact your doctor if you experience paleness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, unusual bruising or bleeding, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, pain or burning during urination, vision problems, and/or numbness, burning or tingling in your hands and feet. You may need a dose adjustment and/or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. 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.