What are the primary uses of Deflazacort. How should Deflazacort be administered. What are the potential side effects of Deflazacort. Who should exercise caution when using Deflazacort.

Understanding Deflazacort: A Comprehensive Overview

Deflazacort is a powerful corticosteroid medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions and autoimmune disorders. This synthetic glucocorticoid plays a crucial role in managing symptoms associated with numerous health issues, ranging from asthma to muscular dystrophy. As we delve deeper into the world of Deflazacort, we’ll explore its uses, dosage guidelines, potential side effects, and important precautions.

The Multifaceted Applications of Deflazacort

Deflazacort’s versatility makes it a valuable tool in treating a wide array of medical conditions. Its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties contribute to its effectiveness in managing various health issues.

Key Indications for Deflazacort Use

• Inflammatory conditions (e.g., asthma, arthritis, allergies)
• Skin, heart, liver, kidney, digestive system, eye, and blood disorders
• Abnormal growths and tumors
• Prevention of organ transplant rejection
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Do you know how Deflazacort works in the body? Deflazacort functions by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, which helps alleviate symptoms associated with various conditions. Its ability to modulate the body’s immune response makes it an effective treatment option for a range of disorders.

Dosage and Administration: Navigating the Correct Usage

Proper administration of Deflazacort is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic results while minimizing potential side effects. Understanding the correct dosage and administration methods is essential for both patients and healthcare providers.

General Administration Guidelines

1. Take Deflazacort orally with a full glass of water
2. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing
3. Aim to take the medication at the same time each day for consistent effects
4. Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding dosage and duration of treatment

Dosage Recommendations for Adults

What is the typical starting dose for adults? The initial dose for adults can be up to 120mg per day, depending on the condition being treated. However, the maintenance dose usually ranges from 3-18mg daily. Here are some condition-specific dosage guidelines:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: 3-18mg/day maintenance dose
• Acute asthma attack: 48-72mg/day, gradually reducing as symptoms improve
• Chronic asthma: Lowest effective dose to control symptoms
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Approximately 0.9mg/kg/day

Pediatric Dosage Considerations

How does the dosage differ for children? Pediatric dosages typically range from 0.25-1.5mg/kg body weight per day, often administered every other day. Specific recommendations include:

• Chronic arthritis in adolescents: 0.25-1mg/kg/day maintenance dose
• Nephrotic syndrome: Initial dose of 1.5mg/kg/day, gradually reduced based on clinical response
• Bronchial asthma: 0.25-1mg/kg body weight, taken every other day
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Approximately 0.9mg/kg/day

Potential Side Effects: Recognizing and Managing Adverse Reactions

While Deflazacort can be highly effective in treating various conditions, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. Recognizing these adverse reactions early can help in prompt management and mitigation of risks.

Severe Side Effects Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Allergic reactions (swelling of hands, feet, face, throat; difficulty breathing; itching; rash; hives)
• Gastrointestinal bleeding (black, tarry stools; fresh blood in stools; vomiting blood)
• Mental health issues (depression, suicidal thoughts, agitation, mood swings, anxiety, confusion, memory loss, hallucinations)

Common and Less Severe Side Effects

What are some of the more common side effects of Deflazacort? While these side effects may not require immediate medical attention, they should be monitored and reported to your healthcare provider if persistent or bothersome:

• Gastrointestinal issues (difficulty swallowing, nausea, dyspepsia)
• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Upper respiratory tract infections and cough
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin changes (erythema, hirsutism, skin atrophy)
• Menstrual irregularities
• Metabolic changes (hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, changes in blood potassium levels)
• Headache and dizziness

Precautions and Contraindications: Ensuring Safe Usage

To maximize the benefits of Deflazacort while minimizing risks, it’s crucial to understand the precautions and contraindications associated with its use.

Absolute Contraindications

When should Deflazacort not be used? Deflazacort is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Gastrointestinal ulcers
• Active infections (tuberculosis, chickenpox, systemic fungal infections)
• Ocular herpes simplex
• Before and after vaccinations
• Hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or any of its ingredients

Precautions and Special Considerations

Who should exercise caution when using Deflazacort? Patients with the following conditions or history should inform their healthcare provider before starting Deflazacort treatment:

• History of severe depression or bipolar disorder
• Family history of mental health issues
• Epilepsy
• Diabetes (personal or family history)
• High blood pressure
• Hypothyroidism
• Osteoporosis
• Glaucoma (personal or family history)
• Heart, liver, or kidney disease
• Digestive system problems (esophagitis, peptic ulcer disease, colitis)
• Previous adverse reactions to steroids

Drug Interactions: Understanding Potential Complications

Deflazacort can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking.

Common Drug Interactions

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Antidiabetic medications
• Antihypertensive drugs
• Immunosuppressants
• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medications

How can drug interactions be managed? Your healthcare provider may need to adjust dosages or monitor you more closely when combining Deflazacort with certain medications. In some cases, alternative treatments may be recommended to avoid potential interactions.

Long-term Use Considerations: Balancing Benefits and Risks

While Deflazacort can be highly effective in managing chronic conditions, long-term use requires careful consideration and monitoring due to potential risks associated with prolonged corticosteroid therapy.

Potential Long-term Effects

• Adrenal suppression
• Increased risk of infections
• Osteoporosis and increased fracture risk
• Metabolic changes (e.g., diabetes, weight gain)
• Skin thinning and delayed wound healing
• Cataracts and glaucoma
• Growth suppression in children

Strategies for Minimizing Long-term Risks

What steps can be taken to mitigate the risks of long-term Deflazacort use? Healthcare providers may employ several strategies to balance the benefits of treatment with potential risks:

1. Using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible
2. Implementing alternate-day dosing when appropriate
3. Regular monitoring of bone density, blood glucose, and other relevant parameters
4. Prescribing calcium and vitamin D supplements to support bone health
5. Considering steroid-sparing agents or alternative treatments when feasible
6. Gradual tapering of the medication when discontinuing long-term use

Patient Education: Empowering Informed Decision-Making

Proper patient education is crucial for ensuring safe and effective use of Deflazacort. Healthcare providers play a vital role in empowering patients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their treatment.

Key Points for Patient Education

• Understanding the importance of adherence to prescribed dosage and schedule
• Recognizing and reporting potential side effects
• Awareness of long-term risks associated with corticosteroid use
• Importance of regular follow-ups and monitoring
• Proper storage and handling of the medication
• Guidance on lifestyle modifications to support treatment efficacy and minimize risks

How can patients actively participate in their treatment plan? Encouraging open communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential. Patients should feel comfortable discussing their concerns, reporting any changes in their condition, and asking questions about their treatment.

Deflazacort in Special Populations: Tailoring Treatment Approaches

The use of Deflazacort in special populations, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, elderly patients, and individuals with compromised immune systems, requires careful consideration and individualized treatment approaches.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Is Deflazacort safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? The use of Deflazacort during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully evaluated, weighing the potential benefits against the risks. In some cases, the benefits may outweigh the risks, but this decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

• Pregnancy: Deflazacort may be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Regular monitoring is essential.
• Breastfeeding: Deflazacort can pass into breast milk. The decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding while taking Deflazacort should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Elderly Patients

How does Deflazacort treatment differ for elderly patients? Elderly patients may be more susceptible to certain side effects of Deflazacort, such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and hypertension. Treatment in this population often requires:

• Lower initial doses with gradual adjustments
• More frequent monitoring of side effects and drug interactions
• Special attention to bone health and fall prevention
• Consideration of comorbidities and potential drug interactions with other medications commonly used in the elderly

Immunocompromised Patients

What special considerations are needed for immunocompromised patients taking Deflazacort? Patients with compromised immune systems require careful management when using Deflazacort due to the increased risk of infections. Considerations include:

• Close monitoring for signs of infection
• Prophylactic measures against opportunistic infections when appropriate
• Adjustment of dosage to balance immunosuppression with disease control
• Education on recognizing early signs of infection and when to seek medical attention

Alternative and Complementary Therapies: Expanding Treatment Options

While Deflazacort is an effective treatment for many conditions, exploring alternative and complementary therapies can provide additional benefits or help reduce the need for high doses of corticosteroids.

Non-pharmacological Approaches

What non-drug therapies can complement Deflazacort treatment? Depending on the condition being treated, various non-pharmacological approaches may be beneficial:

• Physical therapy and exercise programs
• Dietary modifications and nutritional support
• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Acupuncture
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy for managing chronic pain or mental health aspects of certain conditions

Alternative Medications

In some cases, alternative medications may be considered to reduce reliance on corticosteroids or to manage side effects:

• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune conditions
• Biologic therapies for certain inflammatory disorders
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation management
• Immunomodulators for specific autoimmune conditions

How can healthcare providers determine the best treatment approach? The choice of therapy should be individualized based on the patient’s specific condition, overall health status, preferences, and response to treatment. Regular evaluation and adjustment of the treatment plan are essential for optimizing outcomes.

Future Directions: Advancements in Corticosteroid Therapy

Research in the field of corticosteroid therapy continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to develop more targeted treatments with fewer side effects.

Emerging Trends in Corticosteroid Research

• Development of selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators (SEGRMs)
• Exploration of novel drug delivery systems for more localized effects
• Investigation of combination therapies to enhance efficacy and reduce side effects
• Personalized medicine approaches to optimize treatment based on individual genetic profiles

What potential benefits could these advancements bring? Future developments in corticosteroid therapy aim to provide more targeted treatments with improved efficacy and reduced side effect profiles, potentially revolutionizing the management of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

As research progresses, healthcare providers and patients should stay informed about new developments that may offer improved treatment options for conditions currently managed with Deflazacort and other corticosteroids.

Uses of Deflazacort | Vinmec

This is an automatically translated article.

Deflazacort drug is made in the form of tablets with the strengths: 1mg, 6mg, 12g and 30mg. This is a group of pain relievers, antipyretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, treating gout and bone and joint diseases.

1. Indications and contraindications to the drug Deflazacort

What is Deflazacort, and what are its effects? The following is information about the indications and contraindications of the drug:
1.1 Indications Deflazacort 6mg or other dosage forms such as 1mg, 12mg and 30mg are used to treat:
Inflammatory conditions: Asthma, arthritis , allergy,…; problems with the skin, heart, liver, kidneys, digestive system, eyes, or blood; Abnormal growths in the body such as tumors; Preventing rejection after organ transplantation. 1.2 Contraindications Contraindications to using Deflazacort for patients:
Gastrointestinal ulcers; Infectious conditions, viral infections such as: advanced tuberculosis, chickenpox, systemic fungal infections, ocular herpes simplex, herpes-zoster,. ..; Before and after vaccination; Hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or any of its ingredients.

2. How to use and dose of Deflazacort

How to use: The drug is taken orally, swallow the tablet whole with 1 glass of water. You should try to take the medicine at the same time each day for the best effect.
Dosage:
Dosage for adults: The starting dose can be up to 120mg/day. Maintenance dose is about 3-18mg/day: Rheumatoid arthritis: Maintenance dose is about 3-18mg/day. The lowest effective dose should be used, increasing the dose if necessary; Asthma: When treating an acute asthma attack, it may be necessary to use Deflazacort at a high dose of 48-72mg/day depending on the severity, gradually reducing the dose when the asthma is under control. When treating chronic asthma, the lowest possible dose should be used to control symptoms; Duchenne muscular dystrophy : The recommended dose is about 0.9mg/kg/day x 1 time; Dosage for children: For children use 0.25 – 1.5mg/kg body weight/day, should be taken every other day: Chronic arthritis in adolescents: Maintenance dose from 0. 25 – 1mg/kg/day ; Nephrotic syndrome: Initial dose is 1.5mg/kg/day, then the dose will be gradually reduced depending on clinical response; Bronchial asthma: The starting dose is 0.25 – 1mg/kg body weight, taken every other day; Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: The recommended dose is about 0.9mg/kg/day x 1 time. Patients should take the medication exactly as directed by the doctor. Dosage will be adjusted depending on the type of disease being treated and other medications the patient is taking.
In case of overdose or in an emergency, the patient’s family should call an ambulance or take the patient to the nearest medical center. If a dose is missed, the patient should take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.

Thuốc Deflazacort 6mg hay các dạng bào chế khác như 1mg, 12mg và 30mg

3. Deflazacort side effects

You should stop taking the medicine and see a doctor if you have the following side effects:
Allergies: Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, lips, face, throat, which may make it difficult to swallow or breathe; itching, rash, or hives; Stomach ulcers: Passing stools like black tar, see fresh blood in stools or stools, with black flakes like coffee grounds when vomiting; Serious mental health problems: Feeling depressed or even having thoughts of suicide; agitation, mood swings – sad; feeling anxious, having problems sleeping, having trouble thinking, being confused and losing memory; hallucinations, negative thoughts, behavioral changes, feelings of loneliness,. .. Other side effects: Difficulty swallowing, may have white patches in the mouth causing sore throat, weight gain, sugar infections upper respiratory tract, increased appetite, cough, nasopharyngitis, urinary tract infection, obesity, hirsutism, erythema, dysmenorrhea, osteoporosis, fracture, dyspepsia, nausea, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia blood potassium, headache, dizziness, amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, candidiasis, skin atrophy, subcutaneous capillary dilation,…

4. Be careful when using Deflazacort

You should be especially careful, tell your doctor before using Deflazacort if:
You have ever had severe depression or bipolar disorder; Family history of depression or bipolar disorder; You have had psychological problems such as psychosis; You have health problems such as: Epilepsy, diabetes (or a loved one with diabetes), high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, osteoporosis, glaucoma (or a loved one with glaucoma), heart disease – liver – kidney, digestive system problems (esophagitis, peptic ulcer disease, colitis,. ..), ever had a bad reaction such as muscle weakness to steroid drugs, ever had viral or fungal infections, history of tuberculosis, history of blood vessel disorders such as blood clots, etc. Deflazacort is also not recommended during the first 3 months of pregnancy, unless there is a balance. your doctor’s advice about the potential benefit-risk relationship. The drug should also not be used by mothers who are breastfeeding.

Thuốc Deflazacort 6mg được dùng để điều trị hen suyễn

5. Deflazacort drug interactions

Drug interactions can change how a drug works or increase the effect of side effects. Patients should list the medications they are taking for the doctor to consider and prescribe accordingly.
Some problems related to drug interactions patients need to pay attention to:
Quinolones: When used in combination with Deflazacort, there may be an increased risk of side effects such as tendonitis and tendon rupture; The maintenance dose of Deflazacort should be increased if co-administered with hepatic enzyme inducers such as rifabutin, carbamazepine, rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone and aminoglutethimide; The maintenance dose of Deflazacort may be reduced if used concomitantly with hepatic enzyme inhibitors such as ketoconazole; The dose of Deflazacort may be reduced in patients taking estrogen; The desired effects of hypoglycemic agents, diuretics and antihypertensives are antagonized by Deflazacort; The hypokalemic effect of loop diuretics, thiazide diuretics, acetazolamide, beta 2 agonists, carbenoxolone and xanthines is enhanced by Deflazacort; The effectiveness of coumarin anticoagulants may be increased when used concomitantly with Deflazacort; Renal clearance of salicylates is increased with the use of Deflazacort. Discontinuation of Deflazacort may cause salicylate toxicity; Antacids can interfere with the absorption of Deflazacort, so they should be taken at least 2 hours apart. In addition, Deflazacort can cause salt and water retention, increase potassium excretion, so it is necessary to limit salt in the patient’s diet, in combination with adding potassium. Besides, patients should not take the drug with grapefruit juice.
Deflazacort is indicated in the treatment of many different diseases. Patients need to take the drug exactly as directed by the doctor to ensure the highest treatment effectiveness, reduce the risk of side effects or unpredictable complications.
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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.