Defcort 30 Mg (6 Tab)

DEFCORT 30 MG (6 TAB)

DEFCORT 30 MG is a corticosteroid medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., used to manage a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Defcort 30 Tablet
  • Common Name: Deflazacort (active ingredient)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Deflazacort 30 mg as the active ingredient.

• Uses: Defcort 30 Tablet is prescribed for a range of conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties:

  • Inflammatory Conditions: Including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other joint and muscle problems.
  • Autoimmune Disorders: Such as systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (in adults and children over 2-5 years).
  • Allergic Reactions: Severe allergies and allergic rhinitis.
  • Respiratory Conditions: Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
  • Other: Inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease), certain blood disorders, cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma to lessen swelling), and kidney diseases. It is also used to suppress the immune system after organ transplant operations to manage organ rejection.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Defcort 30 Tablet should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, typically once daily, around the same time each day.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed or crushed.
  • It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with food may reduce indigestion.
  • Do not discontinue the medicine abruptly; the dosage should be decreased gradually under medical supervision to avoid severe consequences.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Weight gain, increased appetite, and puffiness.
  • Acne, skin thinning, and easy bruising.
  • Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, depression), headache, dizziness, and insomnia.
  • Indigestion, gastric irritation, and upset stomach.
  • Muscle weakness and bone loss.
  • Increased blood sugar, blood pressure, and eye pressure.
  • Increased risk of infections.
  • Frequent urge to urinate.

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Defcort 30 Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy (Pregnancy Category C) or breastfeeding, as it may cause abnormalities in the fetus or harm nursing infants; consult your doctor.
  • Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues and liver damage.
  • Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, liver or kidney issues, myasthenia gravis, or a history of tuberculosis. It may worsen these conditions.
  • Infections: Defcort can mask signs of infection and lower the body's capacity to fight them; monitor for symptoms like fever or sore throat.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbals you are taking. Interactions can occur with anti-diabetic medicines, anti-epileptics (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine), certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), and blood thinners (e.g., warfarin). Antacids should be taken at least two hours apart. Live vaccines should be avoided.

• Storage:

  • Store Defcort 30 Tablet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep the medicine sealed in its original packaging to protect it from air and moisture.
  • Ensure it is out of reach and sight of children.
  • Store below 25°C or 30°C.

DEFCORT 30 MG (6 TAB) by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD. is a corticosteroid medication containing deflazacort (30 mg) as its active ingredient. It is primarily used to manage various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Defcort 30 mg:

What is Defcort 30 mg used for?

Defcort 30 mg is used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These include rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, severe allergic reactions, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel diseases (like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease), certain blood disorders, cancers (such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma), kidney diseases, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy in adults and children over 5 years old. It helps reduce inflammation, suppress the immune system, and alleviate symptoms like swelling, pain, and redness.

How does Defcort 30 mg work?

Defcort 30 mg works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors inside cells, which stimulates the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Additionally, it suppresses the immune system by reducing the activity and volume of lymphocytes. This action helps to decrease inflammation and manage immune responses.

What is the usual dosage of Defcort 30 mg?

The dosage of Defcort 30 mg varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to the medicine. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily at the same time each day, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed or crushed. Your doctor will gradually decrease the dose before stopping the medication completely.

What are the possible side effects of Defcort 30 mg?

Common side effects can include weight gain, increased appetite, puffiness or bloating, acne, skin thinning, easy bruising, indigestion, gastric irritation, mood changes (such as anxiety, irritability, depression), muscle weakness, bone loss, delayed wound healing, and increased blood sugar, blood pressure, and eye pressure. More serious side effects can include high blood pressure or blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of infections. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor.

Is Defcort 30 mg safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Defcort 30 mg is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the potential risks, as there is limited information on its effects in humans and animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby.

During breastfeeding, Defcort 30 mg should be avoided as deflazacort is secreted in breast milk and could harm nursing infants by potentially causing disturbances in bone development, growth, and endocrine function. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Defcort 30 mg be taken with other medications?

Defcort 30 mg can interact with several medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. For instance, immunosuppressants like cyclosporine can increase the effects of Defcort, while anti-epileptics (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) may decrease its effectiveness. Certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin, erythromycin) and antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole) can also alter its effect. Other medications that require caution include anti-diabetic medicines, water pills, antacids, painkillers, blood thinners (like warfarin), and anti-tuberculosis medicines (like rifampicin). Grapefruit juice can also increase deflazacort levels in the body and should be avoided.

What precautions should be taken with Defcort 30 mg?

Several precautions should be taken while using Defcort 30 mg. It can increase blood sugar levels, so diabetic patients need careful monitoring. It can also make it harder to fight off infections and may mask their signs, so monitor for any symptoms of infection like fever or sore throat. Do not stop taking Defcort 30 mg abruptly, as it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms; the dosage should be gradually decreased under medical supervision. Regular check-ups for adrenal function are recommended. Caution is advised in patients with liver or kidney issues, peptic ulcers, heart diseases, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and mental illnesses. Avoid live vaccines while on this medication.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Defcort 30 mg, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Defcort 30 mg be stored?

Defcort 30 mg should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it sealed in its original packaging and out of the reach and sight of children. Always check the expiry date before use.