Novartis announced this week that the US Food and Drug Administration has approved Jadenu™ (deferasirox) tablets.  Jadenu is a new oral tablet for the treatment of chronic iron overload. Chronic iron overload can occur due to blood transfusions in patients 2 years of age and older, and chronic iron overload in non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia syndromes in patients 10 years of age and older.  Many patients with myelodysplastic syndromes, sickle cell disease or thalassemia need repeated blood transfusions and consequently, long-term daily chelation therapy.  

What is chronic iron overload?  It is a life-threatening cumulative toxicity that results from blood transfusions required to treat sickle cell disease, myelodysplastic syndromes, thalassemia and other conditions.  If chronic iron overload is left untreated, it can cause liver and heart damage.

Avella has been selected by Novartis Pharmaceuticals to dispense Jadenu™ (deferasirox) tablets to simplify treatment administration for patients with chronic iron overload.

• Jadenu (deferasirox), a new formulation of Exjade (deferasirox), is the only once-daily oral film-coated tablet for iron chelation
• Jadenu, taken with or without food, simplifies daily treatment administration for patients with chronic iron overload
• Chronic iron overload is a serious condition that can affect people with sickle cell disease, thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndromes

Learn more about the oncology-focused resources we offer, as well as download our oncology referral form.  You can also click here for full prescribing information from Novartis.

How will Avella work with your oncology patients?  Once we receive the prescription, we will:

• Verify patient benefits and coordinate prior authorizations, when applicable
• If the patient has a high co-pay, our Financial Assistance Specialists will work with the patient and your office to apply the patient to any applicable co-pay assistance programs
• You will receive a confirmation regarding the status of each patient in 24-48 hours

Your dedicated Avella team will handle the rest.

• We will contact the patient to arrange delivery to their home at no additional fee
• Our clinical pharmacists are available 24/7 for patient support

This new drug is immediately available and prescribers can refer patients now.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your account manager, or our national distribution center at (877) 546-5779.