Deflazacort- The tablet belongs to a class of medicines known as steroids. It is used to treat various diseases and conditions, such as inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Deflazacort has a relatively lower impact on metabolic processes as compared to older steroid medicines. That’s why it is considered a commonly prescribed medicine for medium to long-term steroid therapy.

Deflazacort is generally recommended for asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, severe allergies, and certain skin diseases. It comes into action by inhibiting the release of substances that cause swelling or by changing how the immune system works. The dosage can be taken 6 mg once a day at the same time. The tablet can be consumed whole or crushed and mixed with apple sauce.

Mechanism of Deflazacort Tablets

Deflazacort is a prodrug that converts into active metabolites in the body. After coming into its active form, it binds to glucocorticoid receptors inside cells. The glucocorticoid receptor binding modulates certain gene expression through DNA-dependent and DNA-independent mechanisms, either activating or deactivating genes by binding directly to GREs. This leads to a dual effect:

Anti-Inflammatory- It inhibits the production and release of cytokines and prostaglandins. This reduces swelling, redness, and pain.

Immunosuppressive- Deflazacort preserves muscle strength and controls chronic inflammation. 

Uses of Deflazacort Tablets 

• The medication provides relief in various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, and eye disorders.
• It helps manage disease when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
• The immunosuppressive properties help in preventing the body from rejecting a transplanted organ or as part of cancer treatments.
• Deflazacort also alleviates symptoms of severe allergies.

Side Effects of Deflazacort Tablets

Most side effects do not require any medical attention, but if they are prolonged, then they may be life-threatening. Consult with your doctor immediately. The following are some side effects of Deflazacort tablets:

• Abnormal Hair Growth
• Increased Appetite
• Weight Gain
• Frequent Urge to Urinate
• Mood changes, irritability, sleep difficulties
• Headache and dizziness 
• Nausea
• Acne, thinning skin, and stretch marks
• Cough, runny nose, and Sore throat

Precautions of Deflazacort Tablets 

Certain precautions should be considered before consuming Deflaza Tablets. Patients should follow prescribed dosages for the best effect. The following precautions should be observed while taking the tablets:

• The medication suppresses the immune system, due to which our body becomes prone to infections. Therefore, avoid exposure to people who are sick.
• Do not take any attenuated vaccines while going through with Deflazacort treatment. Discuss all the vaccination plans with your doctor.
• Inform your doctor if you have any of the conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, stomach problems, osteoporosis, eye problems, kidney disease, or mental health problems.
• Consult your doctor before taking Deflazacort tablets if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Do not consume alcohol and grapefruit juice while taking these tablets, as they increase the risk of side effects.