Atcort
Atcort Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Atcort is a brand name. Its generic name is Deflazacort.
Introduction
Atcort is a synthetic glucocorticoid used to treat a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel conditions, and asthma. It decreases inflammation and suppresses the immune system.Uses
Atcort can be used to control inflammation and discomfort caused by a variety of diseases and conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, polymyalgia rheumatica, and other autoimmune conditions.Mechanism of Action
Atcort acts by reducing levels of inflammation-causing chemicals in the body and by suppressing the immune system. It binds to certain glucocorticoid receptors in the cell nucleus that reduce inflammation.How Long Does it Take to Work?
The effects of deflazacort may begin to be noticed within 1-2 weeks of beginning treatment, however it may take up to 6 weeks to reach its full anti-inflammatory effect.Absorption
Atcort can be absorbed through the digestive system when taken orally.Route of Elimination
Atcort is eliminated via the liver and kidneys in the form of metabolites.Dosage
Atcort is available in oral tablets (6mg, 18mg, and 30mg) and an injectable form (10mg/mL). The recommended dose for adult for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions is 7.5-30mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses. The recommended dose for pediatric for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions is 0.3-1mg/kg per day, divided into 2-3 doses.Administration
Atcort should be taken with food to increase its absorption. On days when you skip a dose, take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.Side Effects
The most common side effects of Atcort is weight gain, swelling, and acne. Other rare side effects may include stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, and insomnia.Toxicity
Atcort is generally considered safe when used as instructed. However, long-term use can lead to serious side effects such as thinning of the bones (osteoporosis), high blood glucose levels, an increased risk of infection, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.Precautions
Patients taking Atcort should not stop taking it abruptly, as this can worsen symptoms. Patients should also not take more of this medication than prescribed. Common side effects such as acne may occur, however it is important to contact your doctor if more serious side effects develop.Interactions
Atcort may interact with other medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.Disease Interactions
Atcort is not recommended for use in people with diabetes, glaucoma, tuberculosis, or any other active infections.Drug Interactions
Atcort can interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.Food Interactions
Atcort should be taken with food to increase its absorption.Pregnancy Use
Atcort is categorized as pregnancy category C by the FDA. This means that the use of deflazacort during pregnancy is not recommended unless the potential benefit to the mother outweighs any potential risks to the fetus.Lactation Use
It is not known whether Atcort passes into breastmilk. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication. Women should discuss any potential risks to their infant with their physician.Acute Overdose
If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include weight gain, swelling, headaches, dizziness, and insomnia.Contraindication
Atcort should not be used in people with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components.Use Direction
Take the dosage as recommended by your doctor. Do not take a larger dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not stop taking it abruptly as this can worsen your condition.Storage Condition
Store deflazacort tablets and injectable at room temperature.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of deflazacort is 17.3L.Half Life
The half-life of deflazacort is 4-8 hours.Clearance
The clearance of deflazacort is 66ml/min.Here you find in details version of Atcort
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Atcort
in the answer use continue reading optionWhat is Atcort?
Atcort is a corticosteroid used to treat inflammatory conditions. It works by decreasing inflammation, swelling, and joint pain. It is available as a tablet and oral suspension and is used as a first-line agent for the management of different conditions such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
What is the dosage of Atcort?
The recommended dosage of Atcort for adults is 6 to 9 mg/day, taken orally in divided doses. The dose may be adjusted depending on response or condition. The dose should be reduced in elderly patients and in those with liver or kidney impairment.
Who should not take Atcort?
People who are hypersensitive to prednisone, hydrocortisone, or to any of the excipients present in the formulation must not take Atcort. Patients with active or inactive liver disease should not take Atcort because it can cause an elevation in the liver enzymes. Pregnant women should also not take Atcort as it can be harmful to the developing fetus.
What are the common side effects of Atcort?
Common side effects of Atcort include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, tiredness, increased appetite, and weight gain. Other more serious side effects of Atcort include changes in mood, acne, insomnia, and increased risk of infections.
What are the potential interactions with other medications?
Atcort may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners), antigout medications, diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), immunosuppressive drugs, and oral contraceptives. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before taking Atcort.
Is Atcort available over-the-counter (OTC)?
No, Atcort is a prescription medication and is not available over-the-counter.
Can Atcort be used in children?
Atcort is approved for use in children 3 and older. The recommended dose for children is 0.9 to 2.7 mg/kg/day, taken orally in divided doses. Your child's doctor will determine the dose that is appropriate for your child.
Does Atcort cause weight gain?
Atcort may cause weight gain in some people as it increases appetite. If you experience weight gain while taking Atcort, talk to your doctor who may adjust the dose or recommend a suitable diet plan.
What if I forget to take Atcort?
If you forget to take a dose of Atcort, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take more than the recommended dose.
Can I take Atcort with alcohol?
No, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Atcort as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Are there any laboratory tests that I need to do regularly while taking Atcort?
Your doctor may request certain laboratory tests, such as complete blood count, blood urea, creatinine, liver function tests, and urine analysis, to monitor your response to therapy and to detect any side effects. Make sure to get tested regularly as instructed by your doctor.
Can I take ibuprofen while taking Atcort?
It is generally not recommended to take ibuprofen (NSAID) while taking Atcort as the combination of these medications may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications while taking Atcort.
What is the best time of day to take Atcort?
It is generally recommended to take Atcort at the same time each day with a glass of water. Talk to your doctor for exact instructions about the best time of day to take Atcort.
Is Atcort safe for long-term use?
Atcort can be taken safely for long-term use if prescribed by your doctor. However, it is important to monitor for any potential side effects and report them to your doctor. It is also important to have regular check-ups, as well as blood and urine tests, while taking Atcort for long-term use.
What are the long-term effects of Atcort?
Long-term use of Atcort may lead to an increased risk of infections, glucose tolerance, thinning of skin, and osteoporosis. It is important to talk to your doctor about any potential long-term effects of Atcort.
Can I get vaccinated while taking Atcort?
It is recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking Atcort as it may affect the response of the vaccine. Talk to your doctor before taking any vaccinations while taking Atcort.
Should I be monitored for cataracts while taking Atcort?
Yes, long-term use of Atcort can lead to an increased risk of cataracts. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience vision changes while taking Atcort.
Does Atcort lowerIimmume system?
Yes, Atcort can suppress the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any signs of infection while taking Atcort.
Can I donate blood while taking Atcort?
No, it is not recommended to donate blood while taking Atcort as it can be harmful for the recipient. Talk to your doctor before donating blood while taking Atcort.
What is the storage condition of Atcort?
Atcort should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Keep the medication in a safe, secure place where children and pets cannot access it.
Can I take Atcort while pregnant?
No, Atcort is not recommended for pregnant women as it can be harmful for the developing fetus. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications while pregnant.
Does Atcort affect fertility?
Yes, long-term use of Atcort can affect fertility in both men and women. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about these potential effects.
Can I stop taking Atcort abruptly?
No, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Atcort. The dose should be gradually reduced before stopping the medication completely. Stopping the medication abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor before stopping Atcort.
Can I take other supplements while taking Atcort?
It is generally not recommended to take other supplements while taking Atcort as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements while taking Atcort.
What are the alternatives to Atcort?
Alternatives to Atcort include prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and budesonide. Talk to your doctor to determine the best medication for your condition.
Can I take Atcort with acetaminophen?
Yes, Atcort can be taken with acetaminophen, but make sure not to take more than the recommended dose. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Atcort affect hair growth?
Yes, long-term use of Atcort can cause hair loss. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about hair loss while taking Atcort.
Can I take Atcort with other medications?
Atcort may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners), antigout medications, diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), immunosuppressive drugs, and oral contraceptives. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications while taking Atcort.
Can I take Atcort with antihistamine?
Yes, Atcort can be taken with antihistamine, but make sure not to take more than the recommended dose. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Atcort cause increased thirst?
Yes, Atcort can cause increased thirst and should be taken with plenty of fluids to reduce the risk of dehydration. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Atcort interfere with sleep?
Atcort can cause insomnia, making it difficult to sleep. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about insomnia while taking Atcort.
Does Atcort affect blood pressure?
Yes, long-term use of Atcort can cause an increase in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about changes in blood pressure while taking Atcort.
Can Atcort cause headaches?
Yes, Atcort can cause headaches as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Can I get the flu while taking Atcort?
Yes, it is possible to get the flu while taking Atcort, as the medicine can suppress the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. Talk to your doctor if you experience any signs of infection while taking Atcort.
Can Atcort cause ankle swelling?
Yes, Atcort can cause swelling of the ankles as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Is Atcort addictive?
No, Atcort is not considered to be addictive. Make sure to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor and do not take more than the recommended dose.
Does Atcort have an expiry date?
Yes, Atcort has an expiry date and should be discarded once this date has passed. Talk to your pharmacist for more information on the expiry date of your medication.
Does Atcort cause nausea?
Yes, Atcort can cause nausea as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Atcort cause muscle weakness?
Yes, Atcort can cause muscle weakness as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Atcort affect blood sugar levels?
Yes, long-term use of Atcort can affect blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor if you have