Deflazacort
SteroidUses of Deflazacort
Deflazacort is a corticosteroid used to manage Duchenne muscular dystrophy and a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Deflazacort is commonly used for:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD): Helps slow the progression of muscle weakness and preserve muscle function in this inherited muscle-wasting disease.
- Corticosteroid-responsive inflammatory conditions: Reduces inflammation in conditions for which your doctor has prescribed systemic corticosteroid treatment.
- Autoimmune conditions: Suppresses immune system overactivity in conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune hepatitis.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Reduces inflammation and symptoms in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Vasculitis: Helps manage inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body.
- Polymyositis and dermatomyositis: Reduces muscle inflammation and weakness in these connective tissue diseases.
Side effects of Deflazacort
- Cushingoid appearance
- Increased weight
- Increased appetite
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Cough
- Pollakiuria
- Hirsutism
- Central obesity
- Nasopharyngitis
How Deflazacort works
- Deflazacort is a corticosteroid prodrug, meaning the body must convert it into its active form before it can take effect.
- Once absorbed, Deflazacort is metabolised in the liver into 21-desDFZ, its active form. This active metabolite binds to glucocorticoid receptors found inside cells throughout the body, particularly in immune cells and inflamed tissues.
- By activating these glucocorticoid receptors, Deflazacort suppresses the production and release of inflammatory chemicals such as cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. It inhibits the activation and proliferation of immune cells like lymphocytes and macrophages, reducing inflammatory responses.
- The medicine also decreases capillary permeability, reducing fluid leakage and swelling in inflamed areas. In muscular dystrophy, it helps preserve muscle integrity by reducing inflammation and supporting muscle stability.
- This multi-faceted anti-inflammatory action makes Deflazacort effective for both acute inflammatory conditions and chronic autoimmune diseases.
Certified content
Written By
MBBS
Reviewed By
MBBS, DNB (OBGY)
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available for Deflazacort
- This medicine is available for use via the oral route (tablets and suspension).
Age And Dosage Restrictions for Deflazacort
- This medicine is meant for adults and children above 5 years of age.
Contraindications of Deflazacort
- Deflazacort is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to deflazacort and who have a systemic infection or recently taken vaccination containing live viruses.
Medications To Avoid With Deflazacort
- The use of Deflazacort is contraindicated with various medications, including anti-tuberculosis (anti-TB) agents such as rifampicin and rifabutin, analgesics, anti-seizure medications such as phenobarbitone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and pyrimidine, as well as antifungal drugs like ketoconazole. Consultation with a healthcare professional is imperative before initiating any prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- An overdose of Deflazacort may cause symptoms related to excess steroid activity, such as nausea, vomiting, raised blood pressure, fluid retention, mood changes, and muscle weakness. With prolonged excess use, more serious effects on bone health, blood sugar, and adrenal function may occur. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor promptly and follow their advice.
- If you forget to take a dose of Deflazacort, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this medicine should not be stopped or adjusted abruptly without medical guidance.
Using Machine
- This medicine may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid driving if you feel dizzy after taking this combination.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
- This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation
- Avoid alcohol when you are taking this medicine.
- Making lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, is essential for the proper functioning of the muscles when taking this medicine.
- Do not take grapefruit juice when you are taking this medicine.
- Avoid sudden stoppage of this medicine as it may cause withdrawal symptoms like tiredness, weakness, body aches, muscle pain, and joint pain.
- The use of Deflazacort is contraindicated with various medications
Frequently asked questions
1. How much time does Deflazacort take to work?
This medicine starts showing its effects within a few hours after consumption.
2. What warnings and precautions should I take while taking Deflazacort?
Avoid usage in the presence of an allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to any of its components. Refrain from using this medication concurrently with grapefruit juice, as it may elevate the risk of serious adverse effects through a potential drug interaction. It is advisable to seek advice from a doctor promptly.
3. Can I stop taking Deflazacort if I feel healthy?
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel healthy.
4. Is it safe for patients with kidney or liver issues?
Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you have kidney or liver issues to ensure its safety and proper dosage.
5. Will Deflazacort affect contraception?
No, this medicine does not affect contraception.
6. Does Deflazacort affect fertility?
No, this medicine does not affect fertility.
7. Is Deflazacort a steroid?
Yes, Deflazacort is a corticosteroid, which is a type of steroid. It is used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and allergic reactions.
8. Is Deflazacort a painkiller?
No, Deflazacort is not a painkiller. While it can reduce inflammation and swelling, which may indirectly relieve pain, its primary function is to act as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant.
9. Is Deflazacort an antibiotic?
No, Deflazacort is not an antibiotic. It does not kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. It is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system.
10. Is Deflazacort good for cough?
Deflazacort is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress immune responses. It is not commonly recommended for routine cough management unless inflammation-related conditions require it.
Deflazacort in other salts
List of medicines for Deflazacort
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