Deflazacort is a steroid hormone that is used for the suppression of the immune system and for reducing inflammation. It is a beneficial medicine, particularly for muscles and immune disorders. It is a powerful medicine and it is used for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). So, it is necessary to understand its uses, side effects, and some safety tips you need for using this medicine.
What is Deflazacort?
Deflazacort is an artificial steroid hormone similar to prednisone. But they are different in the level of potency and side effects, too. It is accessible in various potencies like in strengths which including 6mg, 18mg, 30mg, and 36mg tablets. It is also available in syrup. The most common prescribed potency is 30mg, from low to high conditions.
Uses of Deflazacort
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): It is mainly used for the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in adults as well as in children who are more than two years old. DMD is a disorder which is causing muscle weakness and deterioration. Deflazacort helps in slowing down the weakening of muscles, muscle strength, and deterioration. It also helps in delaying the need for surgeries.
Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions: Deflazacort is used in the treatment of Asthma, severe allergies, autoimmune diseases, organ transplantation, and nephrotic s, syndrome, but it is not officially approved yet.
Side Effects of Deflazacort
Deflazacort may cause some severe side effects, so consult your doctor if you have symptoms like:
- Some fever, weakness, and sore throat.
- You may experience severe diarrhea.
- Some mild skin rashes also.
- You will sense some blurred vision and pain in your eyes.
- Swelling in hands and feet.
- Serious weakening of muscles.
- Reduced adrenal gland hormones (menstrual changes, vomiting).
- High adrenal gland hormones (weight gain, acne, mood swings).
- High level of blood sugar (dryness in the mouth and feeling thirsty).
- Reduced potassium level (abnormal heartbeat, numbness, and constipation).
Some of the common side effects are:
- Increase in the level of hunger.
- Gaining weight.
- Increasing hair growth in the body.
- Sleeping problems.
- Symptoms of catching a cold.
- Frequently urinating.
- Changes in body shape.
This is an incomplete list of side effects, and others may occur. Consult your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
How should I take this medication?
- Consume the medicine orally.
- You may also crush the medicine and mix it.
- Always follow the directions on the label of the medicine.
- Try to consume your medicines at a fixed time.
- Do not take the medicine more than twice if not suggested by the doctor.
- Do not stop the medicine until your doctor suggests.
- Always talk to your doctor regarding the use of the medicine for children.
- If you have consumed more dosage then contact your doctor.
Conclusion
Deflazacort is used in the treatment of DMD and inflammatory conditions. It improves the quality of life but also has some risks that need supervision with care. Always follow the doctor’s advice and instructions and report immediately any unrecognizable symptoms. By understanding the advantages and ensuring the productive use of it.
Frequently asked questions:
A. Yes, it is a steroid which is also known as a glucocorticoid.
A. Always consult your doctor and call at helpline numbers.
A. No, it is not a painkiller, but it comes under the category of steroids.
A. Take the medicine as soon as possible, but ignore the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
Disclaimer: The information provided is only for knowledge. It is not medical advice; always consult your doctor before taking medicine. Do not overlook the doctor’s medical advice because you have read it here. The author is not responsible for any consequences due to the information contained in the post.