Deferoxamine (DFO), an iron-chelating agent, may reduce iron overload in patients for whom phlebotomy is contraindicated or not well tolerated. Examples include patients with sickle cell disease or thalassemia, whose phlebotomies would exacerbate anemia. DFO is seldom used to treat HH due to the low cost and efficacy of phlebotomy therapy, but it may be used for HH patients who can't tolerate frequent phlebotomies. DFO is typically administered by intravenous or subcutaneous infusion.
Patients with HH may be counseled to avoid alcohol use to minimize the potential for liver damage. Except for iron supplements, dietary restrictions on iron ingestion are rarely advised.
