Defacortil
Defacortil Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Defacortil is a brand name. Its generic name is Deflazacort.
Introduction
Defacortil 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
Defacortil 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
Defacortil 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
Defacortil can be absorbed through the digestive system when taken orally.Route of Elimination
Defacortil is eliminated via the liver and kidneys in the form of metabolites.Dosage
Defacortil 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
Defacortil 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 Defacortil is weight gain, swelling, and acne. Other rare side effects may include stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, and insomnia.Toxicity
Defacortil 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 Defacortil 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
Defacortil 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
Defacortil is not recommended for use in people with diabetes, glaucoma, tuberculosis, or any other active infections.Drug Interactions
Defacortil 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
Defacortil should be taken with food to increase its absorption.Pregnancy Use
Defacortil 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 Defacortil 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
Defacortil 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 Defacortil
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Defacortil
in the answer use continue reading optionWhat is Defacortil?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil?
The recommended dosage of Defacortil 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 Defacortil?
People who are hypersensitive to prednisone, hydrocortisone, or to any of the excipients present in the formulation must not take Defacortil. Patients with active or inactive liver disease should not take Defacortil because it can cause an elevation in the liver enzymes. Pregnant women should also not take Defacortil as it can be harmful to the developing fetus.
What are the common side effects of Defacortil?
Common side effects of Defacortil include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, headache, dizziness, tiredness, increased appetite, and weight gain. Other more serious side effects of Defacortil include changes in mood, acne, insomnia, and increased risk of infections.
What are the potential interactions with other medications?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Is Defacortil available over-the-counter (OTC)?
No, Defacortil is a prescription medication and is not available over-the-counter.
Can Defacortil be used in children?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil cause weight gain?
Defacortil may cause weight gain in some people as it increases appetite. If you experience weight gain while taking Defacortil, talk to your doctor who may adjust the dose or recommend a suitable diet plan.
What if I forget to take Defacortil?
If you forget to take a dose of Defacortil, 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 Defacortil with alcohol?
No, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Defacortil as it can increase the risk of side effects.
Are there any laboratory tests that I need to do regularly while taking Defacortil?
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 Defacortil?
It is generally not recommended to take ibuprofen (NSAID) while taking Defacortil as the combination of these medications may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any medications while taking Defacortil.
What is the best time of day to take Defacortil?
It is generally recommended to take Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Is Defacortil safe for long-term use?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil for long-term use.
What are the long-term effects of Defacortil?
Long-term use of Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Can I get vaccinated while taking Defacortil?
It is recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking Defacortil as it may affect the response of the vaccine. Talk to your doctor before taking any vaccinations while taking Defacortil.
Should I be monitored for cataracts while taking Defacortil?
Yes, long-term use of Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Does Defacortil lowerIimmume system?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Can I donate blood while taking Defacortil?
No, it is not recommended to donate blood while taking Defacortil as it can be harmful for the recipient. Talk to your doctor before donating blood while taking Defacortil.
What is the storage condition of Defacortil?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil while pregnant?
No, Defacortil 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 Defacortil affect fertility?
Yes, long-term use of Defacortil 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 Defacortil abruptly?
No, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Defacortil. 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 Defacortil.
Can I take other supplements while taking Defacortil?
It is generally not recommended to take other supplements while taking Defacortil as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements while taking Defacortil.
What are the alternatives to Defacortil?
Alternatives to Defacortil include prednisolone, methylprednisolone, and budesonide. Talk to your doctor to determine the best medication for your condition.
Can I take Defacortil with acetaminophen?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil affect hair growth?
Yes, long-term use of Defacortil can cause hair loss. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about hair loss while taking Defacortil.
Can I take Defacortil with other medications?
Defacortil 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 Defacortil.
Can I take Defacortil with antihistamine?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil cause increased thirst?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil interfere with sleep?
Defacortil can cause insomnia, making it difficult to sleep. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about insomnia while taking Defacortil.
Does Defacortil affect blood pressure?
Yes, long-term use of Defacortil can cause an increase in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about changes in blood pressure while taking Defacortil.
Can Defacortil cause headaches?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil?
Yes, it is possible to get the flu while taking Defacortil, 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 Defacortil.
Can Defacortil cause ankle swelling?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil addictive?
No, Defacortil 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 Defacortil have an expiry date?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil cause nausea?
Yes, Defacortil can cause nausea as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if you experience any side effects.
Does Defacortil cause muscle weakness?
Yes, Defacortil 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 Defacortil affect blood sugar levels?
Yes, long-term use of Defacortil can affect blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor if you have