Description

Defcort 30 – Strip of 6 Tablets

Defcort 30mg is a higher-strength tablet formulation of Deflazacort, a corticosteroid commonly used to manage inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Composition:

Each tablet of Defcort 30mg contains 30 mg of Deflazacort as the active ingredient.

Indications:

Deflazacort is prescribed for a wide range of conditions where inflammation or immune system dysfunction is a concern. Some of the common conditions for which Defcort 30mg might be prescribed include:

• Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, dermatitis, or vasculitis
• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., acute asthma attacks)
• Muscle wasting diseases, like Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
• Organ inflammation, such as in nephrotic syndrome (kidney inflammation)

Mechanism of Action:

Deflazacort is a corticosteroid that works by:

• Reducing inflammation: It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory substances, like prostaglandins.
• Suppressing the immune system: It can reduce the activity of the immune system, which is useful in autoimmune diseases where the body attacks its own tissues.

Dosage:

The dosage for Defcort 30mg will depend on the specific condition being treated, the patient’s weight, and response to treatment. It is typically used when a higher dose of corticosteroid is required. A general approach might be:

• For adults, the typical starting dose is usually 0.1–0.3 mg per kg of body weight per day, but the exact dose will be determined by your healthcare provider.
• For children, the dose is generally based on their weight and the condition being treated.
• Defcort 30mg tablets are usually taken once daily, often in the morning, with food to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Side Effects:

As with other corticosteroids, Defcort 30mg can cause a variety of side effects, particularly when used long-term. Some potential side effects include:

• Weight gain, due to fluid retention and increased appetite
• Increased blood pressure
• Elevated blood sugar levels (which can worsen diabetes)
• Gastrointestinal issues, such as indigestion, ulcers, or stomach irritation
• Osteoporosis (bone thinning), particularly with prolonged use
• Mood changes (e.g., irritability, depression, or anxiety)
• Increased risk of infections due to the immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids
• Cataracts or glaucoma with long-term use

Precautions:

• Tapering: If you’ve been on Defcort 30mg for a long period, you should not stop the medication suddenly. It needs to be tapered down under a healthcare provider’s guidance to avoid withdrawal symptoms and adrenal insufficiency.
• Infection Risk: Since corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, you should be cautious about being exposed to infections and seek medical advice if you develop symptoms of infection.
• Gastrointestinal Health: Prolonged use can cause gastric ulcers or bleeding, so you should monitor for any abdominal discomfort or changes in appetite.
• Bone Health: Corticosteroids can cause bone loss, so long-term users may need calcium and vitamin D supplements, as well as monitoring of bone density.
• Diabetes: Corticosteroids can raise blood glucose levels, so diabetics need to monitor their blood sugar regularly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Corticosteroids should be used cautiously during pregnancy, and breastfeeding mothers should consult with their doctor before using this medication, as it is excreted in breast milk.

Administration:

• Defcort 30mg tablets should be taken once a day, typically in the morning to minimize the risk of insomnia.
• The tablets should be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew or crush it.

Conclusion:

Defcort 30mg (Deflazacort) is an effective treatment for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, but it should be used with caution due to potential side effects, particularly when used over a long period. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to minimize the risks associated with corticosteroid therapy.

If you have any specific concerns or need more detailed information about how to use this medication, please feel free to ask!