Desocort

Desocort Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Desocort is a brand name. Its generic name is Desoximetasone.

Introduction

Desocort is an orally active glucocorticoid (GCR) drug which belongs to class of drugs known as corticosteroids or steroids. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, anti-itching and immune suppressant. It is available both as topical and systemic formulation. Systemic desoximetasone is available for oral, intramuscular, intravenous and rectal administrations. It exerts its effect through binding with glucocorticoid receptor on the cell surface and nuclear interior. It is used to treat conditions such as severe allergies, asthma, skin diseases, rheumatic disorders, endocrine disorders, collagen diseases and ulcerative skin diseases.

Uses for

Desocort is used to treat a wide range of inflammatory, allergic and autoimmune conditions. It is used for relief of inflammation and concomitant discomfort of various skin, eye, ear and nasal disorders. It can be used to treat the signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as itchy nose, sneezing, and stuffy or runny nose. It can also be used to treat conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatitis herpetiformis, Crohn's disease, eczema, ulcerative colitis and gout.

Mechanism of Action

Desocort works by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor on the cell surface and nuclear interior. It then activates the receptor by recruiting coactivators such as histone acetyltransferase, resulting in the altered expression of various genes encoding inflammatory mediators. This in turn suppresses inflammation and promotes the resolution of the condition. The exact mechanism of action of systemic desoximetasone is not yet established.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The time taken to start showing its anti-inflammatory effect varies depending on the dosage form and route of administration. In case of topical desoximetasone, the effects can be seen in few days or weeks. In case of systemic desoximetasone, the effects usually take around 4 to 6 hours to show.

Absorption

Desocort is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, nasal mucosa and skin following topical and systemic administration. The peak concentrations of desoximetasone can be achieved in the plasma in less than 3 hours. It is almost completely absorbed after rectal administration.

Route of Elimination

Desocort is eliminated from the body through metabolism, urinary, biliary and fecal excretion. About 25 to 35% of the drug is eliminated through urine, 25 to 30% through bile and 25 to 35% through feces.

Dosage

The dosage of desoximetasone depends on various factors such as age, weight, severity of the condition and route of administration. In general, the usual recommended doses are 0.25 to 0.75 mg/day for adults and 0.5 to 1 mg/day for children. It should be administered under the supervision of a medical professional. The dose should not be exceeded as it may cause various side effects.

Administration

Desocort can be administered orally, intramuscularly, intravenously and rectally. It can also be used topically as a cream, ointment or spray. The dosage and route of administration should be determined by the physician.

Side Effect

The common side effects of desoximetasone include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, dizziness, menstrual problems, acne, increased facial hair, insomnia, anxiety, depression, puffiness around the face, cataracts, glaucoma, increased risk of infection and osteoporosis. Serious side effects include adrenal gland suppression, Cushing’s syndrome and growth suppression in children.

Toxicity

The acute oral toxicity of desoximetasone in humans is low, and it is well tolerated even at high doses. The LD50 of this drug is greater than 1000 mg/ kg body weight in mice.

Precaution

Desocort should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women, elderly patients, patients with kidney or liver impairment, autoimmune disorders, coronary artery disease, diabetes and hypertension.

Interaction

Desocort may interact with other drugs such as phenobarbital, rifampin, carbamazepine, aspirin, tetracyclines, antacids, digoxin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and ketoconazole.

Disease Interaction

Desocort should be used with caution in patients with CHD, congestive heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis, autoimmune disorders, liver and kidney impairment and stomach ulcers.

Drug Interaction

Desocort can interact with drugs such as phenobarbital, rifampin, carbamazepine, aspirin, antacids, tetracyclines, digoxin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and ketoconazole.

Food Interactions

Desocort can interact with food substances such as alcohol, caffeine, garlic, ginger, grapefruit juice, spinach and turmeric.

Pregnancy Use

Desocort should not be used during pregnancy unless it is prescribed by a doctor. It is highly recommended that pregnant women should consult a doctor before taking desoximetasone.

Lactation Use

Desocort should not be taken while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

In case of acute overdose of desoximetasone, either gastrointestinal irritation or central nervous system depression may occur. Treatment includes monitoring of vital signs and supportive measures.

Contraindication

Desocort should not be used in case of fungal, bacterial or viral infections. It should also be avoided in case of pregnancy and lactation.

Use Direction

Desocort should be taken as directed by the doctor. The dosage should not be exceeded as it may cause side effects. In case of missed dose, take it as soon as possible. Do not take extra dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage Condition

Desocort should be stored in a cool dark place and away from heat and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

Desocort has a volume of distribution of approximately 2.4 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of desoximetasone is about 6 hours.

Clearance

Its clearance is about 375 ml/min/kg.

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