Orthocort 6 Tablet

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET

Name: Orthocort 6 Tablet (Brand Name)

Composition: Orthocort 6 Tablet contains Deflazacort as its active ingredient, typically in a 6mg strength. Deflazacort is a corticosteroid, a type of steroid medicine that naturally occurs in the body.

Uses: Orthocort 6 Tablet is primarily used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. It is prescribed for:

• Inflammatory Conditions: Such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, uveitis, ulcerative colitis, and allergies. It helps reduce pain and swelling by blocking chemicals that cause inflammation.
• Autoimmune Conditions: Including psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, and other conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.
• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): In adults and children above 2 years of age, it helps slow muscle degeneration.
• Post-transplant therapy: To suppress the immune system and prevent organ rejection.

Dosage and Administration: Take Orthocort 6 Tablet in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water; do not chew or crush it. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help avoid an upset stomach. For best results, take it at a fixed time daily. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen symptoms.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include increased appetite, weight gain, frequent urge to urinate, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, abnormal hair growth, obesity, nasopharyngitis, nausea, chest pain, vomiting, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, skin rash, tremors, nervousness, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include Cushing syndrome. If any side effects bother you or persist, inform your doctor.

Precautions:

• Orthocort 6 Tablet is a steroid and can make it harder for the body to fight off infections. Notify your doctor if you experience signs of infection like fever or sore throat.
• Avoid consuming alcohol with this medicine, as it may lead to bleeding and ulcers in the stomach.
• Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, glaucoma, or a history of tuberculosis.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically advised by a doctor.
• Do not take live vaccines while on this medication without consulting your doctor.

Storage: Store Orthocort 6 Tablet below 25°C or below 30°C, in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight. Keep it out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

1. What is ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET used for?

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET is a corticosteroid medication used to treat a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These include asthma, various types of arthritis (like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), severe allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, skin disorders (e.g., psoriasis, eczema), eye disorders, and kidney and blood-related conditions. It is also used in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and to suppress the immune system in organ transplant patients to prevent rejection.

2. How does ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET work?

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET contains deflazacort, which works by reducing inflammation and modifying the body's immune response. It achieves this by inhibiting the release of certain chemical substances that cause swelling and allergic reactions, and by interacting with immune cells to suppress an overactive immune system.

3. What is the usual dosage for ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET?

The dosage of ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, age, and medical history. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food, but often advised with food to prevent stomach irritation. It's crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dose and duration and to take it at the same time each day for optimal results.

4. What are the common side effects of ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET?

Common side effects can include increased appetite, weight gain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, skin rash, tremors, nervousness, diarrhea, frequent urination, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, abnormal hair growth, obesity, nasopharyngitis, and fast heartbeats. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

5. Is ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless clearly advised by a doctor. It may pose potential risks to the fetus during pregnancy and can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the infant. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

6. Can ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET be taken with other medications?

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET can interact with several medications. These include anti-tuberculosis drugs (like rifampicin), pain-relieving medicines (like carbamazepine), anti-seizure medicines (such as phenobarbitone and phenytoin), antifungal medicines (like ketoconazole), and antidiabetic medications. It's important to inform your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, to avoid potential interactions.

7. What precautions should be taken while using ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET?

Inform your doctor about any allergies you have and any pre-existing medical conditions, especially diabetes, heart disease, liver or kidney problems, glaucoma, or a history of tuberculosis, as the medicine may worsen some conditions. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication, as the dose often needs to be tapered gradually. This medicine can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections; avoid exposure to sick individuals and inform your doctor if you notice any signs of infection. Live vaccines should be avoided while on this medication and for several weeks after stopping.

8. What happens if a dose of ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET, 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.

9. How should ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET be stored?

ORTHOCORT 6 TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, typically below 25°C or 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging and out of the sight and reach of children and pets.