Defcott 6mg Tab

DEFCOTT 6MG TAB

Name: Defcort 6 Tablet (Brand Name), Deflazacort (Common Name)

Composition: Each tablet contains Deflazacort 6 mg. Deflazacort is a corticosteroid.

Uses: Defcort 6 Tablet is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is prescribed for a variety of conditions including:

• Inflammatory conditions affecting muscles and joints such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Allergic diseases and severe allergic reactions.
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis.
• Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
• Inflammation control during cancer treatment and to prevent organ rejection after transplant operations.

Dosage and Administration: The tablet is usually taken orally once daily, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare professional. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. It is crucial to take the medicine regularly at the same time each day and complete the full course as prescribed by the doctor, without abrupt discontinuation. For children, doses usually range from 0.25-1.5 mg/kg/day, with the lowest effective dosage used.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Headache, dizziness
• Mood changes, nervousness
• Cough, upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea
• Abnormal hair growth
• Irregular periods Serious side effects like osteoporosis, increased blood sugar, eye problems (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma), and increased risk of infections can occur with long-term use.

Precautions:

• Infections: Defcort 6 Tablet can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections. Report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat) to your doctor.
• Diabetes: It can raise blood sugar levels, so diabetic patients should monitor glucose closely.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not generally recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it may worsen side effects like stomach irritation.
• Other Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney, liver, heart disease, thyroid dysfunction, or gastrointestinal diseases.
• Do not stop the medication suddenly without consulting a doctor, as it can worsen symptoms and lead to withdrawal effects.

Storage: Store below 25°C in a cool and dry place, protected from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

DEFCOTT 6MG TAB by ISAKURA HEALTHCARE DIV. (Deflazacort) - Frequently Asked Questions

What is DEFCOTT 6MG TAB used for?

DEFCOTT 6MG TAB, containing Deflazacort, is a corticosteroid primarily used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in adults and children aged 2 years and older. It is also prescribed for various inflammatory conditions, severe allergies, autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus), and as an immunosuppressant in transplant patients to prevent organ rejection.

How does DEFCOTT 6MG TAB work?

Deflazacort is a prodrug, meaning it's converted in the body to its active form, 21-desacetyldeflazacort. This active metabolite works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, which reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system. In conditions like Duchenne muscular dystrophy, it helps to maintain muscle strength and delay the onset of muscle-related complications.

What is the usual dosage for DEFCOTT 6MG TAB?

For Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the usual dosage for adults and children 2 years of age and older is approximately 0.9 mg per kilogram of body weight once daily. For other allergic and inflammatory disorders, adult initial doses can be up to 120 mg daily, with maintenance doses typically ranging from 3-18 mg per day. The exact dose will be determined by your doctor based on your condition and body weight. The tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with applesauce. It should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food, but avoid mixing with grapefruit juice.

What are the possible side effects of DEFCOTT 6MG TAB?

Common side effects include a Cushingoid appearance (round face, weight gain especially around the midsection), increased appetite, headache, increased urination, thin or fragile skin, acne, increased hair growth, and mood changes (e.g., irritability, depression, anxiety). More serious side effects can include high blood sugar, high blood pressure, bone thinning (osteoporosis), cataracts, glaucoma, and an increased risk of infection. Report any severe or persistent side effects to your doctor.

Is DEFCOTT 6MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DEFCOTT 6MG TAB (Deflazacort) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as corticosteroids can appear in human milk and could affect an infant's growth or endogenous corticosteroid production. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss this with your doctor before taking this medication.

Can DEFCOTT 6MG TAB be taken with other medications?

Deflazacort can interact with many medications. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, nonprescription, vitamin, nutritional, and herbal supplements you are taking. Medications that can interact include certain anti-tuberculosis drugs (like rifampin), anti-seizure drugs (like carbamazepine and phenytoin), antifungals (like ketoconazole), moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, anticoagulants (like warfarin), anti-diabetic medications, and NSAIDs. Live vaccines are generally not recommended during treatment with Deflazacort. Avoid grapefruit juice.

What precautions should be taken with DEFCOTT 6MG TAB?

It is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your progress and check for unwanted effects. Do not stop taking Deflazacort suddenly, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms; your doctor will guide you on gradually reducing the dose. You should also avoid people who are sick, as this medicine can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of infection. Inform your doctor if you have conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, cataracts, osteoporosis, stomach ulcers, or any active infections.

What happens if a dose of DEFCOTT 6MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is 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 make up for a missed one.

How should DEFCOTT 6MG TAB be stored?

Store DEFCOTT 6MG TAB in a closed container at room temperature, ideally between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F), away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date. If using the liquid suspension, shake well before each use and discard any unused portion one month after opening the bottle.