Deflazacort is a corticosteroid medicine applied to cure a great variety of conditions connected with the inflammatory process, immune system dysfunctions, and some sorts of cancer. Doctors particularly use it in diseases where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body (autoimmune diseases) and in patients who have undergone organ transplants to avoid organ rejection. This medication increases the level of corticosteroids in your body, which reduces inflammation and lowers the immune system as needed.
Deflazacort Tablet Overview
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Deflazacort |
| Drug Class | Corticosteroids / Glucocorticoids |
| Form | Tablets (most common) |
| Prescription Required | Yes |
| Available Strengths | 6 mg, 12 mg, 18 mg, 24 mg, etc. |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Manufacturer(s) | Macleods, Lupin, Alkem, Mankind, etc. |
Composition
| Ingredient | Content |
|---|---|
| Deflazacort | 6 to 24 mg (varies by tablet) |
Uses of Deflazacort Tablet
The treatment of deflazacort is used to treat:
- Diseases such as skin problems, arthritis, and asthma are inflammatory diseases.
- Autoimmune diseases like lupus, psoriasis, or multiple sclerosis
- Cancer-related symptoms
- The patients of organ transplant to avoid rejection
- Anaphylaxis and serious allergies
- Certain genetic conditions that are muscular dystrophic
How Deflazacort Acts
Deflazacort is a steroid medication that is glucocorticoid in nature, meaning that its functions liken the following:
- Suppression of formation of the substances in the body causing inflammation
- Shutting down the immune system in an effort not to attack itself (autoimmune response)
- Assistance in organ transplants to prevent the body from rejecting a new organ
This puts it to great advantage in the treatment of severe diseases that encounter swelling, redness, pain, and immune disorders.
Side Effects of Deflazacort Tablet
Deflazacort (like any other steroid) has side effects, which can appear when one uses it over a long period.
| Common Side Effects | Rare but Serious Effects |
|---|---|
| Increased appetite | Cushingoid appearance (moon face) |
| Weight gain | Central obesity |
| Stomach pain | Polyuria (frequent urination) |
| Constipation | Excessive facial hair growth |
| Mood changes / Irritability | Stretch marks |
| Rash / Skin redness | High blood sugar (in diabetics) |
| Fever, Back pain | High blood pressure |
| Nausea, Nosebleeds | Muscle weakness (long-term use) |
It is always better to ask the doctor when any of these are troublesome or there are new symptoms.
How to Use Deflazacort
| Dosage Instructions | Details |
|---|---|
| Take With Food | Helps avoid stomach irritation |
| Do Not Skip or Stop Suddenly | May cause withdrawal symptoms |
| Follow Doctor’s Dose Exactly | Adjusted based on condition & severity |
| Long-Term Use Requires Checkups | Blood sugar, BP, and bone density |
Note: It should be closely acted upon long-term because of the possibility of compromised bones, hormonal unbalance, and immune inhibition.
Precautions
| Condition | Advice |
|---|---|
| Pregnancy | Use only if prescribed |
| Breastfeeding | Likely safe for monitoring |
| Infections | Inform your doctor; may suppress immunity |
| Diabetes/Hypertension | Monitor regularly |
| Stopping the Medicine | Must be tapered, not stopped suddenly |
| Children | May affect growth with long-term use |
Expert Tips
- Never take longer than should be prescribed
- With food to prevent stomach ulcers or stomach pain
- Measure blood pressure, mood, and weight
- Do not use vaccines without notifying the doctor
- Contact the doctor in case of infection signs and swelling
Available Brands and Pricing
| Brand Name | Company | Price Range | Variants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Default | Macleods Pharmaceuticals | ₹18 – ₹420 | 9 variants |
| Defza | Wallace Pharmaceuticals | ₹10 – ₹371 | 6 variants |
| Cortimax | Zuventus Healthcare | ₹15 – ₹387 | 9 variants |
| Mahacort DZ | Mankind Pharma | ₹9 – ₹160 | 5 variants |
| Enzocort | Alkem Laboratories | ₹19 – ₹431 | 10 variants |
| Dezacor | Aristo Pharmaceuticals | ₹33 – ₹370 | 7 variants |
| Defnalone | Lupin Ltd | ₹19 – ₹280 | 6 variants |
| Orthocort | Macleods Pharmaceuticals | ₹150 – ₹288 | 4 variants |
| Eticort | Franco-Indian Pharma | ₹90 – ₹235 | 3 variants |
| DFZ | Ipca Laboratories Ltd | ₹15 – ₹412 | 7 variants |
It can change in price depending on the strength, packaging, and where the pharmacy is located.
Alternatives of Deflazacort
In the case when Deflazacort Tablet is not available or appropriate, physicians may suggest:
| Alternative | Generic Name | Class |
|---|---|---|
| Prednisone | Prednisone | Corticosteroid |
| Methylprednisolone | Same | Glucocorticoid |
| Dexamethasone | Same | Potent Steroid |
| Hydrocortisone | Same | Mild Steroid |
Never switch to a substitute without a doctor’s advice.
Conclusion
Deflazacort is a potent and efficient corticosteroid to treat various medical disorders that include inflammatory, autoimmune, as well as even cancer-related problems. When properly and medically used, it is a great reliever and a boost to the lives of many patients.
It is, however, due to its steroidal nature that it should be used with caution, monitored, and controlled in dosage. Follow instructions. Always do as told by your doctor, make known any side effects, and avoid self-medication and abrupt withdrawal of the drug.
FAQs:
Ans. Yes, Deflazacort is a steroid from the glucocorticoid group. It mimics natural hormones produced by your adrenal glands.
Ans. Yes, if prescribed by a doctor. It is often used daily in serious conditions like autoimmune diseases and organ transplants. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal effects.
Ans. Yes. Increased appetite and fluid retention are common, leading to weight gain. Proper diet and exercise can help manage this side effect.
Ans. It is relatively safe when used for short periods. Long-term use may carry risks, so it should only be taken under close medical supervision.
Ans. Stopping suddenly can cause serious problems like fatigue, low blood pressure, and hormonal imbalance. Always taper the dose gradually under a doctor’s supervision.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication, including Deflazacort. Prices, brand availability, and effects may vary by individual and location.
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