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