Beyond Simple Grinding: Methylammonium Chloride Promotes Sustainable, Cylinder‐Free Mechanochemical Synthesis of Deferiprone

Basoccu, Francesco;Piermarini, Sara;Angelini, Tommaso;Mari, Massimiliano;Mariani, Edoardo;Falchi, Alessandro;Porcheddu, Andrea

2025-01-01

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Abstract

Thalassemias are a group of inherited hemoglobinopathies that disrupt normal hemoglobin synthesis. Managing these conditions often involves regular blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy to mitigate iron overload. Among the available chelators, deferoxamine, deferasirox, and deferiprone, the latter stands out notably for its use when other drugs are ineffective or intolerable for patients. Although the synthesis of deferiprone is well-documented, traditional methods typically involve lengthy reaction times and environmentally harmful conditions. This study investigates mechanochemistry as a more sustainable, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative. Deferiprone is successfully synthesized and the production process is optimized by employing solid-state techniques, thereby reducing reaction time, energy consumption, and environmental impact. These findings pave the way for cleaner and more sustainable manufacturing pathways for this critical agent in thalassemia management.