Deferoxamine
**Deferoxamine** (also known as desferrioxamine) is a heavy metal chelating agent primarily used as an antidote for **iron toxicity**. It binds to free iron in the bloodstream, forming a water-soluble complex that can be safely excreted by the kidneys. > **Warning:** Rapid intravenous administration can cause severe hypotension and anaphylactic reactions. **Clinical Pearl:** The chelated iron complex (ferrioxamine) is excreted in the urine, which may turn a characteristic reddish-orange color (often described as "vin rosé" urine).
Mechanism: Deferoxamine **chelates iron** by binding to free iron (Fe3+) in the blood and tissues, forming a stable, water-soluble complex called ferrioxamine. Free Iron + Deferoxamine → **Ferrioxamine complex** → Excreted in the urine.
Dosing by species
- Iron toxicity · 40 mg/kg i.m. q4-8h or 15 mg/kg/h slow i.v. infusion · IM/IV · q4-8h (IM) or continuous (IV) · Until iron levels normalize · Slow IV infusion is preferred to avoid hypotension.
- Iron toxicity · 40 mg/kg i.m. q4-8h or 15 mg/kg/h slow i.v. infusion · IM/IV · q4-8h (IM) or continuous (IV) · Until iron levels normalize · Slow IV infusion is preferred to avoid hypotension.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Routes of administration
Contraindications
- Severe renal disease
Adverse effects
- Pain at IM injection site
- Anaphylactic reactions (especially with rapid IV)
- Hypotension (if administered rapidly IV)
Monitoring
- Serum iron levels
- Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC)
- Blood pressure (especially during IV infusion)
- Renal function (BUN, Creatinine)
- Urine color
Overdose
Overdosage or rapid IV administration can lead to acute **hypotension**, tachycardia, and shock. Treatment is supportive, including IV fluids and slowing/stopping the infusion.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.