Defcort 1 Mg Tablet (6 Tab)

DEFCORT 1 MG TABLET

DEFCORT 1 MG TABLET is a corticosteroid medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: DEFCORT 1 MG TABLET
  • Common Name: Deflazacort

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Deflazacort 1 mg as the active ingredient.

• Uses: DEFCORT 1 MG TABLET is prescribed for a variety of conditions due to its ability to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. These include:

  • Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in adults and children aged 2 years and older, to help maintain muscle strength and slow disease progression.
  • Various inflammatory conditions such as asthma, arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), and uveitis.
  • Allergic conditions and severe allergies.
  • Skin disorders like dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema.
  • Certain autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.
  • Kidney disorders such as nephrotic syndrome.
  • Blood disorders, including anaemia and thrombocytopenia.
  • To prevent organ rejection after transplant by suppressing the immune system.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • The dose is determined by a doctor based on body weight, typically around 0.9 mg per kilogram of body weight once daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older.
  • The tablet can be taken with or without food.
  • It should be swallowed whole, or it can be crushed and mixed with applesauce for easier administration.
  • Maintain a regular dosing schedule by taking the medicine at the same time each day.
  • Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly; the dosage should be gradually reduced under medical supervision to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headache, weight gain (particularly around the face), nausea, indigestion, irregular menstrual periods, muscle weakness, acne, increased facial hair growth, mood changes, stretch marks on the skin, increased appetite, frequent urination, cough, upper respiratory tract infections, drowsiness, dizziness, skin rash, tremors, nervousness, diarrhea, fast heartbeats, stomach upset or pain, belching, and watering of the eyes.
  • Serious Side Effects: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling of the face/throat, trouble breathing), adrenal gland problems, increased susceptibility to infections, stomach or bowel perforation, severe mood or behavioral changes (including thoughts of suicide), thinning of bones (osteoporosis), blood clots, cataracts, glaucoma, high blood sugar, or low potassium levels.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor about any allergies to Deflazacort or other medications.
  • Patients should be regularly monitored by a doctor, including blood, urine, and eye tests.
  • Avoid live vaccines during treatment and for at least 4-6 weeks before starting the medicine.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, as this medicine can increase the risk of infections.
  • Discuss pre-existing medical conditions with your doctor, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, stomach ulcers, osteoporosis, or psychiatric illnesses.
  • Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended unless specifically advised by a doctor.
  • Consumption of alcohol is unsafe while taking this medicine.
  • Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery as the medicine may affect alertness.

• Storage:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, typically below 25°C.
  • Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Keep out of the reach of children.
  • Do not use outdated medicine.

DEFCORT 1 MG TABLET: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Defcort 1 MG Tablet used for?

Defcort 1 MG Tablet is primarily used to treat and manage various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These include allergic conditions, asthma, rheumatic disorders (like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis), inflammatory bowel disease, inflammatory skin diseases (such as psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis), and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). It also acts as an immunosuppressant, particularly for preventing organ rejection after transplants.

2. How does Defcort 1 MG Tablet work?

Defcort 1 MG Tablet contains Deflazacort, which is a corticosteroid. It works by decreasing inflammation through suppressing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammatory reactions. Additionally, it modifies the immune system's response, which helps to reduce autoimmune reactions where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

3. What is the usual dosage of Defcort 1 MG Tablet?

The dosage of Defcort 1 MG Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your body weight and medical condition. For Duchenne muscular dystrophy in adults and children aged 2 years and older, the typical dose is 0.9 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight once daily. It should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day, and can be taken with or without food, ideally at a consistent time each day.

4. What are the possible side effects of Defcort 1 MG Tablet?

Common side effects include headache, weight gain (especially around the face), indigestion, irregular periods, muscle weakness, acne, increased facial hair growth, mood changes, and stretch marks on the skin. Other reported side effects are increased appetite, frequent urination, Cushing syndrome, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, obesity, nasopharyngitis, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, skin rashes, tremors, nervousness, diarrhea, and fast heartbeats. Long-term use can also increase the risk of osteoporosis and infections.

5. Is Defcort 1 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: There is limited information regarding the effects of Defcort 1 MG Tablet during pregnancy. It is generally recommended to avoid its use unless specifically prescribed by your doctor, as it may cross the placenta and potentially increase the risk of fetal and neonatal damage. Breastfeeding: Deflazacort, the active ingredient, passes into breast milk. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding unless your doctor considers it essential and suggests monitoring your baby closely or an alternative treatment.

6. Can Defcort 1 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Defcort 1 MG Tablet can interact with other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all prescribed, non-prescribed, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements you are taking. Particular caution is advised with medicines for diabetes, hypertension, asthma, fungal infections, viral infections, diuretics ("water pills"), antacids, painkillers, immunosuppressants (like ciclosporin), blood thinners (like warfarin), anti-tuberculosis medicines (like rifampicin), antifungal agents (itraconazole, ketoconazole), digoxin, and oral contraceptives.

7. What precautions should be taken while using Defcort 1 MG Tablet?

Do not take Defcort 1 MG Tablet if you are allergic to deflazacort or any of its ingredients. Inform your doctor if you have pre-existing conditions such as liver or kidney disease, peptic ulcers, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, heart problems, or a history of mental health issues or tuberculosis. Avoid live vaccines during treatment and for 4-6 weeks afterward. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly; the dose should be gradually reduced under medical supervision to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. Report any signs of infection immediately, as the medicine can increase susceptibility to infections. Also, avoid or limit alcohol consumption and grapefruit juice as they can potentially increase side effects.

8. What happens if a dose of Defcort 1 MG Tablet 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 compensate for the missed one.

9. How should Defcort 1 MG Tablet be stored?

Store Defcort 1 MG Tablet below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging and ensure it is out of the reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date before taking the medicine.