Deflazacort: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, And Safety Guide

Deflazacort is a type of medicine known as a corticosteroid. It is used to treat a wide range of allergic and inflammatory conditions in adults and children.

About deflazacort

Corticosteroids like deflazacort mimic the effects of hormones your body normally produces from the adrenal glands, located above your kidneys. When prescribed in doses higher than your body would normally produce, they strongly reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.

Deflazacort works by interfering with the release of certain chemicals in your body which cause inflammation. These chemicals are part of the normal immune response to injury or infection, but in excess, they contribute to symptoms such as swelling, redness, and pain.

This medication is also called Calcort®. It is available in tablet form, typically 6mg strength, and is taken orally.

Key facts

• Deflazacort is a steroid medicine used for short-term or long-term treatment of inflammation.
• It is suitable for adults and children, with doses adjusted based on age, weight, and condition.
• Common uses include autoimmune diseases, joint conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, severe allergies, asthma, and certain cancers.
• In some countries, it is specifically approved for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged 2 years and older.
• Treatment duration varies: short courses for acute issues, longer for chronic conditions, but long-term use requires monitoring.

About corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are synthetic versions of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. They are powerful anti-inflammatory agents used for conditions where the immune system causes excessive inflammation or damage.

Examples of conditions treated include:

• Autoimmune diseases: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), autoimmune hepatitis, sarcoidosis.
• Musculoskeletal disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile chronic arthritis.
• Allergic and respiratory conditions: Severe allergies, asthma.
• Skin, kidney, heart, digestive system issues, and blood disorders.
• Cancers and transplant immunosuppression.
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD): Slows muscle deterioration in children and adults.

These medicines are not curative but provide symptomatic relief and control disease progression.

Before taking deflazacort

Inform your doctor if any of the following apply to you, as they may affect whether deflazacort is suitable or require dose adjustments:

• Problems with liver or kidney function.
• Diabetes or glaucoma (in you or close family).
• Underactive thyroid, osteoporosis, epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, stomach ulcer, or bowel disorder.
• History of mental health problems.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding (it can be used, but doctor must be informed).
• Current infection or past tuberculosis (TB).
• History of blood clots in arteries or veins.
• Recent or upcoming vaccinations.
• Taking other medicines, including over-the-counter, herbal, or complementary therapies.
• Allergic reaction to any medicine or muscle pain from previous steroids.

Do not take deflazacort if:

• You are allergic to deflazacort or its ingredients.
• You had a bad reaction like muscle weakness to any steroid.
• You have active viral or fungal infections (e.g., athlete’s foot, thrush, cold sores).
• You have active or untreated TB.
• You have blood vessel problems like clots, especially if on blood thinners or NSAIDs (increased ulcer risk).

How and when to take deflazacort

Take exactly as prescribed. Swallow tablets whole with water, or crush and mix with soft food if needed (for DMD). Doses are individualized.

Dosage guidelines

Maintenance doses are the lowest effective. Alternate-day dosing may be used. For long-term (>3 weeks), you may receive a blue steroid card. Do not stop suddenly; taper under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal.

Common questions about deflazacort

How long does deflazacort take to work?

Effects often start within hours to days for inflammation reduction, but full benefits for chronic conditions may take weeks.

Can you take deflazacort for a long time?

Yes, for chronic conditions, but requires regular monitoring for side effects like osteoporosis or infections.

Can deflazacort cause weight gain?

Yes, due to increased appetite and fluid retention.

Does deflazacort affect blood pressure?

It can raise blood pressure; monitor if at risk.

Can you drink alcohol with deflazacort?

Avoid or limit, as it may increase stomach irritation risk.

Side-effects of deflazacort

Short-term use has fewer risks; long-term increases complications. Report serious symptoms immediately.

Common side effects

Serious side effects (seek urgent care)

• Severe allergic reactions: rash, swelling, breathing difficulty.
• Severe stomach pain (pancreatitis, ulcer).
• Vision changes, blurred vision (glaucoma, cataracts).
• Muscle weakness, round face (Cushingoid features).
• Signs of infection, TB reactivation.
• High blood sugar, thirst/urination (diabetes).
• Blood clots, severe headache.
• Skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
• Adrenal crisis on withdrawal: joint pain, low BP.

Long-term: osteoporosis, growth suppression in children, tendon rupture, psychological dependence. See separate Oral Steroids leaflet for details.

How to cope with side effects of deflazacort

• Indigestion/nausea: Eat small, bland meals; antacids if advised.
• Mood swings: Note patterns, inform doctor.
• Weight gain: Balanced diet, exercise.
• Infections: Good hygiene, prompt medical attention.
• Bone thinning: Calcium/vitamin D, bone density scans.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Deflazacort can be used if benefits outweigh risks; discuss with doctor. It passes into breast milk in small amounts.

Other medicines, food, drink and driving

• Interactions: Avoid live vaccines, NSAIDs, anticoagulants without advice.
• Food/drink: Take with food to reduce stomach upset; limit alcohol.
• Driving: Safe unless dizzy/weak.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is deflazacort a strong steroid?

Yes, it is a potent corticosteroid equivalent to prednisolone but with potentially fewer side effects on growth in children.

What is deflazacort used for in children?

Inflammatory conditions, asthma, arthritis, and DMD to slow muscle loss.

Can deflazacort cause hair growth?

Yes, excess body/facial hair (hirsutism) is possible.

How do you stop taking deflazacort?

Taper gradually to prevent withdrawal syndrome.

Does deflazacort weaken immune system?

Yes, increases infection risk; avoid sick contacts.

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medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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