Defcort 24 Mg Tab

DEFCORT 24 MG TABLET

DEFCORT 24 MG Tablet is a corticosteroid medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

• Name

  • Brand Name: DEFCORT 24 MG Tablet
  • Common Name: Deflazacort Tablet

• Composition Each tablet contains Deflazacort 24 mg as the active ingredient.

• Uses DEFCORT 24 MG Tablet possesses anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is prescribed for various conditions, including:

  • Inflammatory Conditions: Such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, uveitis, ulcerative colitis, and allergies.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: Including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, where it helps reduce the immune system's response.
  • Other Conditions: Severe allergic reactions, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, skin disorders, eye disorders, and to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients.

• Dosage and Administration This medicine is for oral use. It can be taken with or without food, typically once daily at the same time each day, as directed by a doctor. The dose for adults usually ranges from 3-18 mg per day for maintenance, while children are prescribed lower doses (0.25-1.5 mg/kg/day). The dosage should be gradually reduced by a doctor before discontinuation; abrupt stopping is not recommended.

• Side Effects Common side effects may include increased appetite, weight gain, frequent urination, headache, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, mood changes, indigestion, irregular periods, muscle weakness, acne, and abnormal hair growth. More serious side effects can involve an increased risk of infection, or gastrointestinal issues like ulcers with high or prolonged use.

• Precautions

  • Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, liver or kidney disease) or allergies.
  • DEFCORT 24 MG Tablet can lower the body's ability to fight infections; report any signs of infection (fever, sore throat) to your doctor. Avoid live vaccines.
  • Alcohol consumption is generally unsafe while taking this medication.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.
  • Interactions may occur with antidiabetic medicines, antacids (maintain a 2-hour gap), blood thinners, and certain other medications.

• Storage Store the medicine in a cool, dry place, ideally below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging and out of reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about DEFCORT 24 MG TAB by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD:

What is DEFCORT 24 MG TAB used for?

DEFCORT 24 MG TAB, containing Deflazacort, is a steroid medication primarily used to manage various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is prescribed for allergic conditions, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, uveitis, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory skin diseases (like psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis), and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It can also be used as an immunosuppressant for transplant patients and in certain cancer treatments to manage allergic reactions.

How does DEFCORT 24 MG TAB work?

Deflazacort, the active ingredient, is an inactive prodrug that is rapidly metabolized in the body to its active form, 21-desacetyldeflazacort. It acts similarly to natural corticosteroids produced by the adrenal glands, working to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. It achieves this by blocking the production of inflammatory substances like interleukins and TNF-alpha, and by stabilizing cell membranes.

What is the usual dosage for DEFCORT 24 MG TAB?

The dosage of DEFCORT 24 MG TAB varies depending on the medical condition and individual patient needs, and it should always be taken as prescribed by your doctor. For acute disorders, an initial dose of up to 120 mg/day may be given, with maintenance doses typically ranging from 3-18 mg/day. For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the maintenance dose is usually between 3-18 mg/day. In children, doses generally range from 0.25-1.5 mg/kg/day. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day to maintain consistent medicine levels. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose before stopping the medication entirely.

What are the possible side effects of DEFCORT 24 MG TAB?

Common side effects can include headache, weight gain (especially around the face), indigestion, irregular periods, muscle weakness, acne, increased facial hair growth, mood changes, stretch marks, increased appetite, and frequent urination. Other reported side effects include dizziness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, drowsiness, skin rash, tremors, nervousness, diarrhea, and fast heartbeats. If any side effects bother you or persist, consult your doctor.

Is DEFCORT 24 MG TAB safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Limited information is available regarding the effects of Defcort 24 MG TAB during pregnancy. It is generally recommended to avoid its use unless specifically prescribed by your doctor, as it crosses the placenta, and prolonged or repeated use may increase the risk of intrauterine growth retardation. Breastfeeding: Defcort 24 MG TAB passes into breastmilk, so its use is generally not recommended while breastfeeding. Your doctor may suggest an alternative or close monitoring of the infant. Doses up to 50 mg daily are unlikely to cause systemic effects in the infant, but higher doses might lead to adrenal suppression.

Can DEFCORT 24 MG TAB be taken with other medications?

DEFCORT 24 MG TAB can interact with other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, including prescribed, non-prescribed, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements you are taking.

• Avoid: Live vaccines should not be taken while on Defcort 24 MG TAB and for at least 4-6 weeks prior, due to the risk of severe allergic reactions.
• Caution with: Medicines for diabetes (may increase blood sugar), certain antiepileptics (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole may increase Deflazacort levels), blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, increasing bleeding risk), anti-tuberculosis medicines (e.g., rifampicin, rifabutin – may require dose adjustment of Defcort), and oral contraceptives (effectiveness may be reduced).
• A gap of at least two hours should be maintained between taking antacids and Defcort Tablet.

What precautions should be taken while taking DEFCORT 24 MG TAB?

Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney diseases, peptic ulcers, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, heart conditions, or a history of mental health issues. Since this medicine can suppress the immune system, it may make you more susceptible to infections; report any signs of infection like fever or sore throat to your doctor. Do not stop taking DEFCORT 24 MG TAB suddenly, as it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms; the dose should be gradually reduced under medical supervision. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery as it may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Taking it with food can help prevent an upset stomach.

What happens if a dose of DEFCORT 24 MG TAB is missed?

If you miss a dose of DEFCORT 24 MG TAB, 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.

How should DEFCORT 24 MG TAB be stored?

DEFCORT 24 MG TAB should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and always ensure it is out of the reach of children. It is generally recommended to store it below 25°C or 30°C.