Deflazacort

Deflazacort provides anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting Phospholipase A2 enzyme which is responsible for prostaglandin synthesis. Besides, Deflazacort decreases the release of certain chemicals that are important in the immune system, providing immunosuppressive action. Derived from prednisolone, it is a corticosteroid with mainly glucocorticoid activity. An anti-inflammatory dose of 6 mg deflazacort is equivalent to 5 mg prednisolone.

• Anaphylaxis, asthma, severe hypersensitivity reactions
• Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile chronic arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis
• Pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid
• Minimal change nephrotic syndrome
• Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease
• Uveitis, optic neuritis
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, ITP
• Acute and lymphatic leukemia, malignant lymphoma
• Immune suppression in transplantation

Deflazacort provides anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting Phospholipase A2 enzyme which is responsible for prostaglandin synthesis. Besides, Deflazacort decreases the release of certain chemicals that are important in the immune system, providing immunosuppressive action.

Deflazacort inhibits Phospholipase A2 to reduce prostaglandin synthesis and suppresses immune cell activity, thereby reducing inflammation and immune responses.

Adult - Acute disorders: Initially up to 120 mg/day; Maintenance: 3-18 mg/day.
Child: 0.25-1.5 mg/kg/day (on alternate days).

May be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew, crush or break. Do not stop abruptly after long-term use (gradual tapering required).

If you miss a dose of Deflazacort, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

Common: Increased appetite, frequent urge to urinate, facial swelling, abnormal hair growth, Cushing syndrome, cough.
Other: GI disturbances, musculoskeletal, endocrine, neuropsychiatric, ophthalmic, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, increased infection risk, skin atrophy, acne, thromboembolism.

Caution in cardiac disease, hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis, myasthenia gravis, epilepsy, peptic ulcer, liver failure, hypothyroidism, cirrhosis. Avoid live virus vaccines. Inform doctor if signs of infection (fever, sore throat) occur.

Hypersensitivity; live virus immunization (in immunosuppressive doses).

Liver enzyme inducers (rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenobarbitone, phenytoin): Dose increase may be needed.
Liver enzyme inhibitors (ketoconazole): Dose reduction may be possible.
Antacids, ACE inhibitors, antidiabetics, aspirin, NSAIDs, warfarin: Interactions possible.

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Deflazacort.

Pregnancy Category C. Deflazacort crosses the placenta. Prolonged or repeated use during pregnancy may increase the risk of intrauterine growth retardation. Use only if benefits outweigh risks.

Corticosteroids are excreted in breast milk. No data available for Deflazacort. Doses up to 50 mg daily are unlikely to cause systemic effects in the infant.

Limited exposure of children to Deflazacort in clinical trials. Use the lowest effective dose.

Common adverse effects of systemic corticosteroids may be associated with more serious consequences in old age.

Renal impairment: Safe in kidney disease. No dose adjustment recommended. However, inform your doctor if you have any kidney disease.
Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in severe liver disease. Blood levels may be increased; carefully monitor and adjust dose to minimum effective dose.

Limited information on overdose. Overdose may increase common corticosteroid side effects. Seek medical attention.

Store in a cool (below 25°C) and dry place, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Deflazacort