Defcicot 6 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET is a corticosteroid medication manufactured by LEEFORD HEALTHCARE LTD.

Composition

Each uncoated tablet contains Deflazacort 6 mg as its active ingredient.

Uses

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. It is prescribed for a range of conditions, including:

• Inflammatory Conditions: Such as arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, uveitis, ulcerative colitis, bursitis, and tendinitis. It helps reduce swelling and pain.
• Autoimmune Conditions: These include diseases like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues.
• Allergic Conditions: Provides relief from symptoms of various allergic reactions.
• Organ Transplant: Used to suppress the immune system to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients.
• It may also be used in the treatment of certain cancers and other inflammatory issues affecting the skin, heart, kidney, digestive system, blood, or eyes.

Dosage and Administration

Take DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET as advised by your doctor, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help minimize stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break it. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. The recommended dose for adults is typically around 0.9 mg per kilogram of body weight, not exceeding 120 mg per day.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cough, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis
• Abnormal hair growth (hirsutism)
• Headache, nausea, indigestion
• Mood changes, irritability
• Acne, irregular periods, muscle weakness
• Round or puffy face (Cushingoid appearance)
• Drowsiness (rare)

Serious Side Effects:

• Increased risk of infections
• Bone loss
• High blood pressure
• Weakened immune function
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), severe dizziness, trouble breathing

Precautions

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use with caution. Consult your doctor as it may be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, gastrointestinal issues, heart conditions, depression, psychosis, adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma), hypothyroidism, or ocular herpes.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, to avoid potential drug interactions. Avoid live vaccines while on this medication. Avoid grapefruit juice as it may increase drug levels.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 2 years of age, and generally used with caution in children.
• Sudden Discontinuation: Do not stop taking DEFCICOT abruptly, as it can lead to steroid withdrawal syndrome with symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Storage

Store DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET below 25°C or 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

What is DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET used for?

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET, containing the active ingredient deflazacort, is a corticosteroid medication used to treat a variety of conditions. It is primarily prescribed for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in adults and children aged 2 years and older. Additionally, it is used to manage inflammatory conditions affecting muscles and joints such as arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, as well as other inflammatory conditions like asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, uveitis, ulcerative colitis, and allergies. It also treats autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and is used as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients.

How does DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET work?

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET acts as a corticosteroid by reducing inflammation and altering the way the immune system functions. It works by inhibiting the release of chemicals in the body that cause swelling and damage. Specifically, it suppresses the immune system's inflammatory response by reducing the production of inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and cytokines. Deflazacort is a prodrug, meaning it is converted into its active metabolite (21-desDFZ) in the body.

What is the usual dosage of DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET?

The dosage of DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET varies based on the condition being treated and individual patient response. For Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the recommended dose is typically around 0.9 mg per kilogram of body weight, taken once a day. For other conditions, maintenance doses usually range from 3 to 18 mg per day, though initial doses for acute disorders can be as high as 120 mg/day. The medicine is usually taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. Tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with applesauce for easier swallowing. If using the oral suspension, it can be mixed with 3 to 4 ounces of milk or fruit juice, but not grapefruit juice.

What are the possible side effects of DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include increased appetite, weight gain, frequent urination, headache, thin or fragile skin, increased hair growth, acne, irregular menstrual periods, and difficulty sleeping. More serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, include signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat), seizures, changes in vision, swelling of the face or limbs, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, or significant mood and behavior changes, including depression or thoughts of suicide. Long-term use can increase the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, glaucoma, cataracts, and adrenal gland problems, as well as growth suppression in children.

Is DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Corticosteroids can cross the placenta, and infants born to mothers who received substantial doses may need monitoring for hypoadrenalism. There have been associations with increased risk of orofacial clefts, intrauterine growth restriction, and decreased birth weight with maternal corticosteroid use.

During Breastfeeding: Corticosteroids, including deflazacort, are excreted in breast milk and could potentially suppress growth or cause endocrine disturbances in a breastfeeding infant. Due to limited information on deflazacort's use during breastfeeding, an alternative corticosteroid may be preferred, especially for newborns or preterm infants. It is crucial to consult your doctor regarding its use while breastfeeding.

Can DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET can interact with various medications. It should generally be avoided with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inducers such as carbamazepine, efavirenz, phenytoin, rifampin, phenobarbital, apalutamide, dabrafenib, or primidone, as these can decrease the effectiveness of deflazacort. Conversely, moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, diltiazem, fluconazole, verapamil, and grapefruit juice) can increase deflazacort levels, potentially necessitating a reduction in the deflazacort dosage (e.g., to one-third of the recommended dose). There is an increased risk of side effects when taken with anticoagulants like warfarin, and antidiabetic medications may require dosage adjustments. Combining it with NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment due to the risk of immunosuppression; all necessary immunizations should be completed before starting deflazacort.

What precautions should be taken while using DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET?

It is crucial not to stop taking DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET suddenly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms; the dosage must be gradually decreased under medical supervision. Regular monitoring by your doctor, including blood tests, urine tests, blood sugar checks, liver function tests, and eye exams for conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, is essential. You should avoid consuming grapefruit juice while on this medication. Be watchful for any signs of infection, as deflazacort can suppress the immune system, and it is advisable to avoid contact with sick individuals and practice frequent handwashing. Inform any doctor or dentist about your deflazacort use before any surgery or dental treatment. Caution is advised for patients with diabetes, peptic ulcers, heart problems, kidney or liver disease, or mental health conditions. The medication can also cause changes in mood or behavior and may increase the risk of stomach or bowel perforation in individuals with pre-existing digestive issues or bone thinning (osteoporosis).

What happens if a dose of DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of DEFCICOT 6 MG 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.

How should DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET be stored?

Store DEFCICOT 6 MG TABLET in a closed container at room temperature, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light. Ensure it is kept out of the reach of children and pets. Any unused oral liquid formulation should be discarded one month after opening. For proper disposal of any unused or expired medication, it is best to utilize a medication take-back program; check with your pharmacy or local law enforcement for guidance.