What is Deflazacort used for. How does Deflazacort work. What are the common side effects of Deflazacort. Is Deflazacort a steroid. How does Deflazacort compare to Prednisone. What precautions should be taken when using Deflazacort.

Understanding Deflazacort: A Comprehensive Overview

Deflazacort is a powerful corticosteroid medication used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. This synthetic glucocorticoid has gained significant attention in the medical community due to its effectiveness and potentially fewer side effects compared to other steroids. Let’s delve into the key aspects of this medication to gain a thorough understanding of its uses, mechanisms, and important considerations.

The Therapeutic Applications of Deflazacort

Deflazacort is prescribed for a wide range of medical conditions, primarily those involving inflammation or autoimmune responses. Some of the common uses include:

• Inflammatory conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• Allergic reactions
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Asthma
• Skin disorders
• Certain types of cancer

The versatility of Deflazacort makes it a valuable tool in managing complex health issues that require immunosuppression or anti-inflammatory effects.

How Deflazacort Works in the Body

Deflazacort’s mechanism of action is multifaceted, targeting various physiological processes to achieve its therapeutic effects. The medication works by:

1. Increasing glucocorticoid levels in the body
2. Suppressing the production of inflammatory substances
3. Modulating immune system responses
4. Inhibiting auto-immune reactions

By influencing these pathways, Deflazacort effectively reduces inflammation and suppresses overactive immune responses, which are crucial in managing many chronic conditions.

The Immunosuppressive Effects of Deflazacort

One of the primary functions of Deflazacort is its ability to suppress the immune system. This property is particularly beneficial in scenarios such as organ transplants or autoimmune diseases where the body’s immune response needs to be controlled. How does Deflazacort achieve this immunosuppression. It interferes with the production and action of immune cells and inflammatory mediators, effectively dampening the body’s immune response.

Common Side Effects and Precautions

While Deflazacort is an effective medication, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Mood changes and irritability
• Cushingoid syndrome
• Changes in fat distribution (central obesity)
• Skin changes (e.g., stretch marks, excessive hair growth)
• Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., abdominal pain, constipation)
• Increased urination (polyuria)
• Nosebleeds and skin redness

It’s crucial to note that these side effects can vary in severity and occurrence among individuals. Patients should be monitored closely, especially when starting treatment or adjusting dosages.

Precautions and Considerations

When using Deflazacort, certain precautions should be taken to ensure safe and effective treatment:

1. Always take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider
2. Do not abruptly stop taking Deflazacort without medical supervision
3. Inform your doctor of any signs of infection, as Deflazacort can suppress immune function
4. Be aware of potential interactions with other medications
5. Carry a steroid treatment card to inform healthcare professionals of your medication

Deflazacort vs. Prednisone: A Comparative Analysis

Deflazacort is often compared to Prednisone, another commonly prescribed corticosteroid. While both medications share similar therapeutic effects, there are some notable differences:

• Deflazacort may have a more favorable side effect profile in some patients
• Some studies suggest Deflazacort may have less impact on bone density compared to Prednisone
• The potency and dosing equivalence between the two medications differ

Is Deflazacort always better than Prednisone. The answer isn’t straightforward. The choice between these medications depends on individual patient factors, the specific condition being treated, and the judgment of the healthcare provider.

Dosage and Administration of Deflazacort

The appropriate dosage of Deflazacort can vary significantly based on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health status. Generally, the medication is taken orally with food to minimize stomach upset. Some key points regarding dosage include:

• Initial dosages are often higher and then tapered down to a maintenance dose
• The medication is typically taken once daily in the morning
• Long-term use should be closely monitored by a healthcare provider
• Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and should be avoided

Pediatric Use of Deflazacort

Deflazacort has shown promise in pediatric populations, particularly in the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. How is the dosing adjusted for children. Pediatric dosing is typically based on body weight and the specific condition being treated. Close monitoring is essential to balance efficacy with potential growth impacts.

Long-term Effects and Monitoring

Long-term use of Deflazacort, like other corticosteroids, requires careful monitoring due to potential systemic effects. Some areas of concern include:

1. Bone density changes and increased risk of osteoporosis
2. Adrenal suppression
3. Growth retardation in children
4. Metabolic changes, including glucose intolerance
5. Increased susceptibility to infections

Regular check-ups, bone density scans, and blood tests may be necessary for patients on long-term Deflazacort therapy. How often should these assessments be done. The frequency of monitoring depends on the individual patient’s risk factors and the duration of treatment, but generally, at least annual evaluations are recommended.

Deflazacort in Special Populations

The use of Deflazacort requires special consideration in certain patient groups:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Deflazacort should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Can Deflazacort be used while breastfeeding. While small amounts of the drug may pass into breast milk, the effects on nursing infants are not well-studied. Decisions regarding use during lactation should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Deflazacort and may require closer monitoring for side effects. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual response and tolerability.

Patients with Liver or Kidney Impairment

Patients with compromised liver or kidney function may metabolize and excrete Deflazacort differently. How does this affect dosing? Dosage adjustments and more frequent monitoring may be required in these populations to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Deflazacort can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
• Certain antifungal medications
• Anticonvulsants
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Live vaccines

What are the absolute contraindications for Deflazacort? The medication should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or other corticosteroids, systemic fungal infections, or in those receiving live virus vaccines.

Patient Education and Support

Proper patient education is crucial for the safe and effective use of Deflazacort. Healthcare providers should discuss:

1. The importance of not stopping the medication abruptly
2. Potential side effects and when to seek medical attention
3. The need for regular follow-ups and monitoring
4. Lifestyle modifications that may be necessary while on the medication
5. The importance of carrying a steroid card or medical alert identification

How can patients best manage their Deflazacort treatment? Encourage open communication with healthcare providers, adherence to prescribed regimens, and prompt reporting of any concerning symptoms or side effects.

Future Directions and Research

As medical science advances, ongoing research continues to explore the potential applications and refinements of Deflazacort therapy. Some areas of current interest include:

• Optimizing dosing strategies to minimize side effects
• Investigating new therapeutic applications in rare diseases
• Developing novel drug delivery systems for improved efficacy
• Conducting long-term safety studies in various patient populations

What potential breakthroughs might we see in Deflazacort research? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, ongoing studies may lead to more targeted use of the medication, improved formulations, or even new combination therapies that enhance its therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Deflazacort represents a valuable tool in the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Its unique profile offers potential advantages in certain patient populations, particularly where long-term corticosteroid use is necessary. However, like all powerful medications, it requires careful consideration, appropriate patient selection, and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes.

Key points to remember about Deflazacort include:

• It is a potent corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties
• Its uses span a wide range of conditions, from allergies to autoimmune diseases
• While generally well-tolerated, it can cause significant side effects, especially with long-term use
• Careful dosing, regular monitoring, and patient education are crucial for safe and effective use
• Ongoing research may uncover new applications and refine treatment strategies

As with any medical treatment, the decision to use Deflazacort should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, weighing the potential benefits against the risks for each individual patient. By understanding the medication’s properties, uses, and considerations, patients and healthcare providers can work together to optimize treatment outcomes and improve quality of life for those managing chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Deflazacort: View Uses, Side Effects and Medicines

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Information about Deflazacort

Deflazacort Uses

Deflazacort is used in the treatment of Inflammatory conditions, Autoimmune conditions and cancer.

How Deflazacort works

Deflazacort is a corticosteroid. It increases the level of glucocorticoid in the body and works by decreasing the formation of substances that cause inflammation and suppresses immunity to stop self damage to the body by the immune system (auto-immune reactions occurring in organ transplants or cancer).

Common side effects of Deflazacort

Increased appetite, Weight gain, Abdominal pain, Mood changes, Cushingoid syndrome, Excessive hair growth on face, Central obesity, Polyuria, Constipation, Irritability, Fever, Back pain, Erythema (skin redness), Rash, Nausea, Nosebleeds, Stretch marks

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₹15 to ₹4127 variant(s)

Expert advice for Deflazacort

• Deflazacort helps treat inflammation, severe allergies, flare-ups of ongoing illnesses, and many other medical problems that require either reduction of inflammation or suppression of the immune system.

• Do not use it more often or for longer than advised by your doctor.

• Take it with food to avoid an upset stomach.

• Deflazacort can make it harder for you to fight off infections. Notify your doctor if you have any signs of infection such as a fever or sore throat.

• Side effects such as mood changes or stomach problems can happen when you start taking Deflazacort. Inform your doctor if this bothers you.
• Do not stop taking Deflazacort suddenly without talking to your doctor first as it may worsen your symptoms.

Frequently asked questions for Deflazacort

Deflazacort

Q. Is Deflazacort a steroid?

Yes, Deflazacort is a steroid medicine also known as glucocorticoids which occur naturally in the body. These glucocorticoids help to maintain health and wellbeing. Deflazacort increases the corticosteroids levels in the body which helps in treating various illnesses involving inflammation (redness, tenderness, heat and swelling).

Q. What is Deflazacort used for?

Deflazacort has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is used for treating conditions like allergy diseases, anaphylaxis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory skin diseases and autoimmune diseases (these diseases happen when your body’s immune system attacks the body itself and causes damage). The medicine also helps transplant patients as it suppresses the immune system so that the body does not reject the organ.

Q. How does Deflazacort work?

Deflazacort is a steroid medicine also known as glucocorticoids which occur naturally in the body. The medicine works by reducing the inflammation which helps in treating many illnesses caused due to active inflammation. Also, it stops the reactions known as autoimmune reactions which occur when your body’s immune system attacks the body itself and causes damage.

Q. Is Deflazacort better than Prednisone?

Clinical studies have shown that Deflazacort has a similar effect as that of prednisone. Moreover, Deflazacort is better tolerated when used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions. However, consult your doctor for the right treatment of your condition.

Q. Is Deflazacort a painkiller?

No, Deflazacort is not a painkiller. It belongs to the class of medicines known as steroids.

Q. Can I take Deflazacort with Tamsulosin?

Yes, Deflazacort can be taken with Tamsulosin. No harmful effects or any other interactions have been reported when they are used together.

Deflazacort tablets. Deflazacort medicine at Patient

Deflazacort tablets

Calcort

In this article

• About deflazacort
• Before taking deflazacort
• How to take deflazacort
• Getting the most from your treatment
• Can deflazacort cause problems?
• How to store deflazacort
• Important information about all medicines

About deflazacort

Deflazacort belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. It is sometimes referred to simply as an oral steroid.

Corticosteroids like deflazacort are used to treat a wide variety of conditions. Some examples include autoimmune diseases (for example, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), autoimmune hepatitis, sarcoidosis), joint and muscle diseases (for example, rheumatoid arthritis), and allergies and asthma. They are also used in the treatment of some cancers.

Deflazacort works by interfering with the release of certain chemicals in your body which cause inflammation.

Before taking deflazacort

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine can only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking deflazacort it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have had a heart attack, or if you have any other heart problems.
• If you have any problems with the way your liver works, or if you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.
• If you (or a close family member) have either diabetes or an eye condition called glaucoma.
• If you have any of the following conditions: an underactive thyroid gland, ‘thinning’ of the bones (osteoporosis), epilepsy, a condition causing muscle weakness (called myasthenia gravis), a stomach ulcer, or a bowel disorder.
• If you have ever had a mental health problem.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. (Oral steroids like deflazacort can be taken while you are expecting or breastfeeding; however, it is important that your doctor knows about the baby.)
• If you have any kind of infection at the moment, or if you have ever had tuberculosis (TB).
• If you have ever had an unwanted blood clot in an artery or a vein.
• If you have recently had, or are about to have, any vaccinations.
• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine, or if you have ever developed muscle pain after taking a steroid medicine.

How to take deflazacort

• Before starting the treatment, read the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet from inside the pack and any additional information you are given by your doctor. These will give you more information about deflazacort and will also provide you with a full list of side-effects which you could experience from taking it.
• Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how many tablets to take for each dose. For an adult, the dose range is usually from ½-3 tablets daily, although it may be higher than this if you are acutely unwell. Take your dose in the morning during breakfast. Swallow the tablet with a drink of water. Children are sometimes prescribed a dose to take on alternate days only.
• If you forget to take a dose at your usual time, take it as soon as you remember (with something to eat). If you do not remember until the following day, leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
• Continue to take deflazacort until your doctor tells you to stop. Stopping taking the tablets suddenly can cause problems so your doctor will want you to reduce your dose gradually over a period of time if/when this becomes necessary.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If your course of treatment is due to last more than three weeks, you will be given a ‘Steroid Treatment Card’ which says that you are on steroids and contains some important advice for you. It is important that you read this card and carry it with you at all times. It also contains details about your dose, how long you have been taking deflazacort for, and who prescribed it for you. Please make sure that this information is kept up to date. If you are having an operation or dental treatment or any treatment for an injury, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking deflazacort and show them your treatment card. This is because your dose may need adjusting.
• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. Your doctor will want you to have tests from time to time to make sure you remain free from some of the unwanted side-effects of treatment.
• Deflazacort can suppress your immune system, so it is important if you become ill that you make an appointment to see your doctor straightaway. Also, if you come into contact with anyone who has measles, shingles or chickenpox (or anyone who suspects they might have them), you must see your doctor as soon as possible.
• Some vaccines are not suitable for you while you are being treated with deflazacort. If you need any immunisations, make sure you mention that you are taking an oral steroid.
• If you buy any medicines, check with your pharmacist that they are suitable to take with deflazacort. This is particularly important if you take a medicine for indigestion (such as an antacid), as indigestion remedies should not be taken during the two hours before you take deflazacort, or for two hours afterwards. This is because antacids interfere with the way deflazacort is absorbed by your body, making it less effective.

Can deflazacort cause problems?

Along with its useful effects, deflazacort can cause unwanted side-effects which your doctor will discuss with you. The benefits of taking an oral steroid usually outweigh the side-effects; however, they can sometimes be troublesome. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with deflazacort. The best place to find a full list of the side-effects which can be associated with your medicine, is from the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine. Alternatively, you can find an example of a manufacturer’s information leaflet in the reference section below.

Although not everyone experiences side-effects, and some will improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you become concerned about any of the following:

Common deflazacort side-effects	What can I do if I experience this?
Tummy (abdominal) pain, indigestion, feeling sick (nausea)	Stick to simple foods. If you are sick (vomit) and there is blood present, you must speak with your doctor straightaway
Muscle weakness or feeling tired	Do not drive and do not use tools or machines while affected
Mood or behavioural changes, especially at the beginning of treatment	If you become confused, or irritable, or start having worrying thoughts about harming yourself, speak with your doctor straightaway
Difficulties sleeping, headache, increased weight, and irregular periods in women	If any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor
Increased risk of getting an infection	If you become ill, make an appointment to see your doctor straightaway
Long-term treatment with deflazacort may cause other unwanted effects	If you have any symptoms which are causing you concern, you should arrange to see your doctor for advice

Important: you should let your doctor know if you start to experience blurred vision or other vision problems whilst taking deflazacort.

For more information about side-effects which are possible when deflazacort is taken long-term, see the separate leaflet called Oral Steroids.

How to store deflazacort

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

• Manufacturer’s PIL, Calcort® 6 mg tablets; Neon Healthcare Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2022.

• Medicines Complete BNF 85th Edition; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Deflazacort instructions – Search for drugs

INSTRUCTIONS
for the use of the drug

Deflazacort

90 003 Form of release

Tablets

Pharmacological properties

Deflazacort – corticosteroid, hormonal
drug that stops muscular dystrophy. Active substance –
a derivative of prednisone with comparable immunosuppressive and
anti-inflammatory effect. The drug, like any other corticosteroid, does not
has an analgesic effect, but it affects the very cause of the pain
– inflammation. By reducing inflammation, Deflazacort indirectly
also has an analgesic effect, since discomfort in the affected
areas decrease or disappear altogether. The drugs in this group are prescribed in
in cases where non-steroidal drugs were ineffective.

Indications

Deflazacort
may be needed to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy – hereditary
severe pathology causing muscle weakness of varying degrees, and almost
always occurring in boys. The drug is recommended for the treatment of children not
under 5 years old.

Also medicine
effectively used against:

• Crohn’s disease.
• Pemphigus.
• Anaphylaxis.
• Lymphatic leukemia.
• Pediatric gangrenosis.
• Acute interstitial nephritis.
• Choking.
• Hemolytic anemia of autoimmune origin.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Ulcerative colitis.
• Bullous pemphigoid (a chronic autoimmune skin disease).
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

Contraindications for use are:

• Allergy to the main active ingredient.
• Presence of severely controlled infections.

In addition, you cannot use Deflazacort
long courses if the patient was diagnosed with:

• Osteoporosis.
• Glaucoma.
• Mental pathology.
• Ulcer.
• Hypertension.
• Severe kidney disease.
• Tuberculosis.
• Viral infection.
• Pregnancy.

Dosage and Administration

Follow all
recommendations of the attending physician. Eating food does not affect absorption
drug. If you cannot swallow the tablet whole, crush it and mix
in a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing. Don’t Save
it for future use.

Recommended dosages:

• Adults – prescribe therapy with 0.9 mg/kg of body weight. In the future, gradually increase to 3-18 mg / kg / day. In emergencies, a high dosage is used – up to 120 mg / day.
• Children – depending on the characteristics of the clinical picture, prescribe 0. 25 mg-1.5 mg / kg.

Side effects

Taking
Deflazacort should be prepared for the possible appearance of:

• urticaria;
• difficult breathing;
• swelling of the face/throat;
• fever;
• sore throat;
• burning sensation in the eyes;
• soreness of the skin.

Storage conditions

At a temperature not exceeding 25°C. Store
out of the reach of children.

Expiry date

Use
Deflazacort is available for 5 years from the date of issue.

First drug for Duchenne muscular dystrophy approved in the USA – Vademecum magazine

Olga Chesnokova

Pharmaceutical industry

February 13, 2017, 11:41 AM

Photo: businesswire.com

10390

The high cost of the drug in the company was explained by the costs of research and development.

In a number of other countries, Emflaza has been on the market since the 90s. In particular, it is approved for use in Canada, Great Britain, Spain, Brazil, Panama, Bangladesh and Honduras. The cost of a course of this drug in the UK is $1,600, in Canada its cost may soon drop to $1 per tablet. Prior to FDA approval, patients self-imported deflazacort from other countries for many years, but this has been banned in the US since the drug was approved. Thus, for patients, the cost of the drug after approval will increase by 6,000%.

Deflazacort is a corticosteroid drug that reduces inflammation and also suppresses the immune system (immunosuppressive effect). Clinical studies of the drug showed positive results in 196 patients aged 5 to 15 years. Already on the 12th week after taking the drug, the functionality of muscle tissue significantly increases in patients. In addition, it has fewer side effects than other similar drugs.

In December 2015, the FDA postponed consideration of the application of the American biopharmaceutical company BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc regarding the world’s first drug for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Kyndrisa. The medicine is designed not only to relieve symptoms, but to slow down the development of the disease. The results of clinical studies of the drug presented to the commission did not convince the group of independent FDA consultants of the efficacy and safety of the drug. Thus, FDA experts considered that the statistics obtained in the last stages of clinical trials of the drug do not confirm the results of early clinical trials. In addition, the agency requested a study on delayed side effects of the drug, such as kidney disease or a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a hereditary progressive muscular dystrophy. The disease manifests itself at an early age with symmetrical muscle atrophy in combination with cardiovascular, osteoarticular and mental disorders. It is inherited in a recessive X-linked type, that is, boys suffer from it (in very rare cases, girls can also get sick). Muscle fibers in this disease disintegrate, and the ability to move is lost.