Exjade: improved bioavailability for new presentation

Exjade (deferasirox) is now available as a film-coated tablet, a strength-adjusted formulation of deferasirox with higher bioavailability than Exjade dispersible tablets.

As a result of its improved bioavailability the dose for the film-coated tablet is 30% lower than that of the dispersible tablet. Accordingly, the film-coated tablet is available in lower strengths than the dispersible tablet (90mg, 180mg and 360mg versus 125mg, 250mg and 500mg, respectively).

As a risk mitigation measure to avoid medication errors, and in agreement with the European Medicines Agency, Novartis plans to discontinue Exjade dispersible tablets in the UK at the end of June 2017.