Kelfer 500 Capsule (Deferiprone 500 mg): Comprehensive Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers (possible agranulocytosis)
- Unusual bruising or bleeding (possible thrombocytopenia)
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (possible liver toxicity)
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Signs of allergic reaction: rash, swelling, difficulty breathing
- Palpitations or fainting (possible heart rhythm changes)
- Decreased urine output (possible kidney issues)
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is kelfer 500 capsule used for?
This medicine is an oral iron chelator used to treat iron overload in patients with thalassemia major who receive frequent blood transfusions. It binds excess iron and helps remove it through urine. Regular blood monitoring is essential due to the risk of low white blood cell counts.
- Generic Name: Deferiprone (500mg)
- Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 kelfer 500 capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा डेफेरिप्रोन नामक सक्रिय तत्व युक्त एक ओरल आयरन चेलेटर है, जिसका उपयोग थैलेसीमिया मेजर जैसे रक्त विकारों में लोहे की अधिकता को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। जिन रोगियों को बार-बार रक्त चढ़ाना पड़ता है, उनमें लोहा जमा हो जाता है, जिससे हृदय, यकृत और अन्य अंगों को नुकसान हो सकता है। यह दवा उस अतिरिक्त लोहे को बांधकर पेशाब के माध्यम से शरीर से बाहर निकालने में मदद करती है। यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर के पर्चे पर ही मिलती है और इसका उपयोग रक्त विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में ही किया जाना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट दर्द, दस्त और जोड़ों में दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एग्रानुलोसाइटोसिस (श्वेत रक्त कोशिकाओं में भारी कमी) और न्यूट्रोपेनिया हो सकते हैं, जिससे गंभीर संक्रमण का खतरा बढ़ जाता है। यकृत एंजाइमों में वृद्धि, प्लेटलेट्स में कमी और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रियाएं भी हो सकती हैं। यदि आपको बुखार, गले में खराश या मुंह में छाले हों, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग केवल योग्य रक्त रोग विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में ही करें। उपचार शुरू करने से पहले और उसके दौरान नियमित रूप से रक्त की जांच करानी चाहिए, खासकर श्वेत रक्त कोशिकाओं की निगरानी के लिए। यदि आपको बुखार, गले में खराश या संक्रमण के कोई भी लक्षण दिखें, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे यकृत को नुकसान हो सकता है। गर्भवती महिलाओं को यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। इस दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और गर्मी से दूर रखें।
💊 kelfer 500 capsule Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Transfusion-dependent thalassemia major","description":"Used to remove excess iron from the body in patients who receive regular blood transfusions and have iron overload.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Iron overload in other rare anemias","description":"May be used in patients with other congenital or acquired anemias requiring chronic transfusions, when other chelators are not suitable.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Neurodegenerative diseases with iron accumulation","description":"Investigated for conditions like Friedreich's ataxia and Parkinson's disease, but not standard therapy.","evidence":"Investigational"}]
Primary treatment for: Transfusion-dependent thalassemia major with iron overload
Also treats: Other transfusion-dependent anemias, Iron overload due to other causes
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Deferiprone (500mg) |
| Brand Name | kelfer 500 capsule |
| Manufacturer | Cipla Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | BLOOD RELATED |
| Action Class | Iron chelating agents |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by binding to free iron in the blood and tissues. Deferiprone is a bidentate chelator that forms a neutral complex with iron in a 3:1 ratio. This complex is then excreted primarily in the urine, helping to reduce iron overload and prevent iron-induced organ damage.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take kelfer 500 capsule
Strength: 500 mg immediate-release capsule
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 75 to 99 mg/kg per day, divided into three doses. The dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the patient's weight, iron burden, and response to therapy. Regular monitoring of blood counts and iron levels is essential. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Dose should be individualized by a clinician based on renal and hepatic function and overall health status. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor renal function closely. Consult a clinician for specific dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, dose adjustment may be necessary. Monitor liver function closely. Consult a clinician for specific dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is 99 mg/kg per day, but must be individualized by a clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of kelfer 500 capsule
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Deferoxamine | Major | |
| Vitamin C (high dose) | Major | |
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Antacids (Al/Mg) | Moderate | |
| Rifampin | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| NSAIDs | Moderate | |
| Corticosteroids | Moderate | |
| Zinc supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other iron chelators (e.g., deferoxamine, deferasirox)
- Vitamin C (high doses)
- Myelosuppressive drugs (e.g., chemotherapy, methotrexate)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
- UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["History of agranulocytosis or severe neutropenia","Active infections","Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant","Breastfeeding","Hypersensitivity to deferiprone or any component of the formulation","Severe liver impairment","Severe kidney impairment"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Agranulocytosis and neutropenia: Serious blood disorders can occur. Regular blood count monitoring is mandatory.","Infections: Patients should report any signs of infection immediately.","Liver toxicity: Monitor liver enzymes regularly.","Zinc deficiency: May occur; monitor and supplement if needed.","Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Use effective contraception.","Driving and operating machinery: May cause dizziness; avoid if affected.","Alcohol: Avoid due to increased liver toxicity risk.","Vitamin C: Avoid high doses.","Other chelators: Do not use concurrently without specialist advice."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether deferiprone is excreted in human breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, and worsening of side effects. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Hemodialysis may be considered but is not well established.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be used under the supervision of a qualified hematologist. A complete blood count must be checked before starting and then regularly, often weekly, to monitor for neutropenia or agranulocytosis. If you develop a fever, sore throat, or any sign of infection, contact your doctor immediately. Do not stop or change the dose without medical advice. Avoid alcohol as it may increase liver toxicity. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, especially those that can affect blood counts or liver. Use effective contraception if you are of childbearing age, as this medicine may harm an unborn baby. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as dizziness, falls, and infections. Dose should be individualized based on renal and hepatic function. Regular monitoring is essential.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is contraindicated during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 6 months after stopping. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may affect blood counts and increase infection risk. Your doctor may recommend temporary discontinuation or dose adjustment before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may increase the risk of bleeding or infection. Your dentist may recommend precautions such as antibiotic prophylaxis or blood tests before procedures.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Moderate exercise is encouraged, but avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy or fatigued. If you have heart complications, consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue in some patients. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most patients can continue their daily activities with proper monitoring.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can lead to a rapid increase in iron levels and organ damage. Your doctor will decide when to stop based on your iron levels and overall condition.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can effectively reduce iron overload and prevent organ damage. However, it requires regular monitoring for blood counts, liver function, and iron levels. Some patients may develop zinc deficiency or joint pain over time. Adherence to monitoring and follow-up is essential for safe long-term therapy.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Parenteral iron chelator, given by subcutaneous infusion.
Evidence: Well-establishedOral iron chelator taken once daily.
Evidence: Well-establishedRemoval of blood to reduce iron, used in non-transfusion-dependent iron overload.
Evidence: Well-established for certain conditions💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Patients on this medicine may have weakened immune systems due to low white blood cell counts. Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, but avoid live vaccines if immunocompromised. Consult your doctor before any vaccination.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for controlled medicines before travel.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within hours to bind iron, but it may take several weeks to months to see a significant reduction in iron levels. Regular monitoring is needed.
A: Yes, taking it with food can help reduce nausea and stomach upset.
A: Serious side effects include agranulocytosis, neutropenia, liver toxicity, and allergic reactions. Report any signs of infection or unusual symptoms immediately.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be taken without regular blood tests.
Fact: Regular blood tests are mandatory because this medicine can cause serious drops in white blood cells. - Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: This medicine may harm the unborn baby and is contraindicated during pregnancy. - Myth: You can stop this medicine once you feel better.
Fact: This medicine is a long-term treatment for iron overload. Stopping without medical advice can lead to iron buildup and organ damage.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Deferiprone
Brand Alternatives
- Kelfer 500