Deflazacort

What is it?

Composition

Deflazacorts composition is based on its main active ingredient, deflazacort itself, a potent corticosteroid.

• Deflazacort is the main active ingredient responsible for the drugs therapeutic effect.
• Excipients, which may vary depending on the manufacturer, typically include lactose, starch, and additional components that improve absorption.
• Capsule forms may contain various additives to ensure their integrity and preservation, such as gelatin.

Deflazacorts unique properties as a corticosteroid give it a special role in the treatment of muscular dystrophy. Its action is aimed at reducing inflammation and slowing the progression of dystrophy, which improves muscle strength and function.

How to use?

Using Deflazacort requires strict adherence to the instructions and doctors prescription to achieve maximum benefit and minimize the risk of side effects.

1. Take the medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Deflazacort can be taken with or without food, which is convenient for patients with different dietary patterns.
2. You may need to combine different tablet strengths to achieve the desired dosage, so follow the dosage recommendations carefully.
3. The dosage is often based on the patients weight, especially in children and adolescents. Changes in weight can affect the dosage, so it may be adjusted during treatment.

For children and adults diagnosed with DMD, the standard dose is approximately 0.9 mg/kg once daily. This ensures optimal treatment effectiveness and the bodys adaptation to the medication. Possible changes in body weight should also be taken into account when adjusting the dosage during treatment.

How does it work?

Deflazacort works through its main component, deflazacort, which plays a role in modulating the bodys immune and anti-inflammatory responses. As a potent corticosteroid, it interacts with specific receptors, leading to a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and molecules. This helps reduce inflammation and muscle cell damage, which is particularly important in diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The drug improves muscle strength by slowing degenerative processes, thereby improving patients quality of life. Deflazacorts effective action helps maintain muscle mass and functionality, which is essential for patients suffering from progressive muscle diseases. The drugs primary goal is to control disease progression, allowing patients to lead more active and independent lives.

Indications

Deflazacort is indicated for use in cases requiring interventions to control inflammatory processes and autoimmune reactions in the body. Thanks to its unique properties, the drug significantly improves the condition of patients suffering from specific muscle diseases.

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy in adults and children over 2 years of age.
• Other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions where corticosteroids may be used.
• Prevention of the progression of various degenerative changes in the muscular system.

This medication expands the range of treatment options for patients who require supportive and disease-slowing treatment. Its ability to counteract inflammatory processes significantly improves quality of life and functionality, even in severe conditions.

Contraindications

Deflazacort has a number of contraindications that are important to consider before starting treatment to avoid unwanted effects and complications.

• Allergic reactions to the drugs components, particularly deflazacort itself.
• Age under 2 years - not recommended for use in young children.
• Interaction with grapefruit-based products may cause adverse effects, so their consumption should be avoided.
• Vaccinations with live vaccines should not be administered during treatment or for at least 4-6 weeks prior to treatment due to the risk of infection.

These contraindications must be considered by every patient planning to use Deflazacort to prevent negative health effects and the possibility of complications. It is important to always consult a doctor before starting treatment and strictly follow their recommendations to minimize the risk.

Side effects

Like many other medications, Deflazacort can cause side effects that vary depending on individual sensitivity and duration of use. It is important to be aware of possible side effects and be prepared for them.

• Systemic reactions, such as weight gain or metabolic changes, which may manifest as edema or increased appetite.
• Some patients may experience mood changes, including irritability or depression.
• Long-term use may lead to changes in bone structure, such as osteoporosis, or exacerbation of chronic infections.

Patients should closely monitor any changes in their health status and promptly report them to their doctor. Treatment may require adjustments or additional monitoring to prevent or reduce side effects. It is important to follow all instructions from your healthcare provider and carefully adhere to the treatment plan.