Description
Defcort 24mg is a corticosteroid tablet formulation containing Deflazacort as the active ingredient. It is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, similar to other corticosteroids.
Composition:
Each tablet of Defcort 24mg contains 24 mg of Deflazacort.
Indications:
Deflazacort is used to treat various conditions, including:
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions where the immune system attacks the body, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other inflammatory disorders.
- Inflammatory conditions: Such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), dermatitis, or vasculitis.
- Allergic reactions: Severe allergies, including asthma exacerbations.
- Muscle wasting diseases: Such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
- Organ inflammation: For example, nephrotic syndrome (kidney inflammation) or inflammation affecting other organs.
Mechanism of Action:
Deflazacort is a corticosteroid that works by:
- Suppressing inflammation: It inhibits the release of chemicals (like prostaglandins) that trigger inflammation.
- Immune suppression: It reduces the immune system’s activity, helping control autoimmune diseases where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.
Dosage:
The dosage of Defcort 24mg will depend on the condition being treated. It is typically prescribed for patients requiring a moderate dose of corticosteroid therapy. The general approach to dosing includes:
- Adults: The typical starting dose may range from 0.1 to 0.3 mg/kg body weight per day, depending on the condition.
- Children: The dose is usually based on their weight and the specific condition being treated.
Deflazacort is often taken once daily in the morning with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Side Effects:
Like other corticosteroids, Defcort 24mg can cause a range of side effects, especially with prolonged use. Some common side effects include:
- Weight gain (due to fluid retention and increased appetite)
- Increased blood pressure
- Elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia, which may be a concern for people with diabetes)
- Gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g., ulcers, indigestion)
- Osteoporosis (bone thinning, especially with long-term use)
- Cataracts or glaucoma (eye problems, particularly with prolonged use)
- Mood changes (e.g., irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or depression)
- Suppressed immune response, which increases the risk of infections
Precautions:
- Tapering: Long-term use of corticosteroids should not be stopped abruptly. Gradual dose reduction (tapering) is necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms and adrenal insufficiency.
- Infection risk: Deflazacort suppresses the immune system, so you should avoid exposure to infections and report any symptoms of infection immediately.
- Bone health: Long-term use can cause bone loss, so calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended, and bone density may need to be monitored.
- Diabetes: Regular blood sugar monitoring is recommended, as corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy should only be considered if the benefits outweigh the risks. It is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should consult a healthcare provider before using this medication.
Administration:
- Defcort 24mg tablets are usually taken once daily, preferably in the morning.
- The tablet should be taken with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
- Swallow the tablet whole—do not chew or crush the tablet.
If you have any further questions or need more information about the medication, feel free to ask!
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