Emerging Understanding of the Advantage of Small Molecules such as Hydroxypyridinones in the Treatment of Iron Overload

Deferiprone, a hydroxypyridin-4-one, is effective at facilitating iron removal from iron overloaded patients, when administered orally. Some problems associated with deferiprone are discussed. Hydroxypyridinone analogues with improved distribution, metabolism and affinity for iron are described. In particular the “high pFe3+”hydroxypyridin-4-ones possess considerable clinical potential.