Deferasirox is marketed in dispersible tablet and film-coated tablet (FCT) formulations in different markets. The formulations have different bioavailability, dosing equivalence and administration instructions. Here is the practical difference.
1. Dispersible Tablet #
- Default formulation in most export markets, including DEFRATAJ
- Dispersed in water / orange juice / apple juice (100-200 mL)
- Administered at least 30 minutes before food
- Absolute bioavailability ~70% on empty stomach
- Dosing typically 20-40 mg/kg/day in transfusional overload
2. Film-Coated Tablet (FCT) #
- Launched by innovator (in certain markets)
- Swallowed whole with water; can be taken with a light meal
- Higher bioavailability than dispersible tablet - dose equivalence ~70% of dispersible dose for same exposure
- Alternative formulations improve patient preference in some surveys
3. Dose Conversion #
When converting a patient from dispersible to FCT, the prescribing information typically recommends using ~70% of the previous dispersible dose to achieve similar exposure. Always refer to the locally approved product information.
4. Why Choose Dispersible? #
- Wider global availability
- Established in pediatric use (dispersion in liquid)
- Generally lower cost - better for tender and public-sector programmes
- Well-characterised BE and clinical experience
5. Why Choose FCT? #
- Preferred by some adult patients who find dispersion inconvenient
- Less food-timing variability (though still best at consistent times)
- Available in some markets only
6. DEFRATAJ Positioning #
DEFRATAJ is supplied as the dispersible tablet in five strengths (100/125/250/400/500 mg) - aligned to the widely-used reference formulation and supporting pediatric dosing. See product information and Bioavailability.