Which is a common treatment option for iron overload in beta thalassemia?

The common treatment option for iron overload in beta thalassemia is deferoxamine. This medication is a chelating agent that binds to excess iron in the body, facilitating its excretion, primarily through the urine. Individuals with beta thalassemia often require frequent blood transfusions to manage anemia, which can lead to iron accumulation due to the increased load of iron from the transfused red blood cells.

Deferoxamine effectively reduces the risk of complications associated with iron overload, such as liver damage, heart disease, and diabetes. It is essential for managing the long-term consequences of iron accumulation in patients with chronic conditions like beta thalassemia.

Other treatment options—such as folic acid supplements—can be beneficial in managing the anemia associated with thalassemia but do not directly address iron overload. An iron-rich diet would exacerbate the problem of iron overload, while vitamin C can enhance iron absorption and is not advisable in patients with iron overload. Therefore, deferoxamine is recognized as the primary treatment for addressing iron overload in this condition.