Dezacot
Generic Name
Deflazacort
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| dezacot 6 mg tablet | ৳ 8.03 | ৳ 80.30 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Dezacot 6 mg Tablet contains Deflazacort, a synthetic corticosteroid used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, systemic lupus erythematosus, and nephrotic syndrome.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies depending on the condition and patient response. Typically, initial doses range from 6 mg to 90 mg daily. For many conditions, a starting dose of 6-18 mg daily is common, adjusted subsequently. Should be taken once daily, preferably in the morning.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but use with caution and monitor for potential adverse effects, especially in patients with comorbidities like osteoporosis, hypertension, or diabetes.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment is usually required for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases.
Hepatic_impairment
Dosage reduction may be necessary in patients with severe hepatic impairment, as metabolism may be compromised. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with water, preferably in the morning, with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
Deflazacort is a glucocorticoid that works by binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. This complex then translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression, leading to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g., cytokines, chemokines) and the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins (e.g., lipocortin-1). It also suppresses various components of the immune system, thereby reducing inflammation and allergic reactions.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
The anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within a few hours of administration, but full therapeutic effects may take several days.
Excretion
The active metabolite and its inactive metabolites are predominantly excreted via the kidneys (approximately 60-70%) and to a lesser extent via feces (approximately 30%).
Half life
The elimination half-life of the active metabolite (21-desacetyl deflazacort) is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Absorption
Deflazacort is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and quickly converted to its active metabolite, 21-desacetyl deflazacort, which is responsible for its therapeutic activity. Peak plasma concentrations of the active metabolite are reached within 1.5 to 2 hours.
Metabolism
Deflazacort is primarily metabolized in the liver to its active metabolite, 21-desacetyl deflazacort, by esterases. Further metabolism occurs to inactive hydroxylated metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to deflazacort or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines in immunocompromised patients
Drug Interactions
Antihypertensives
Corticosteroids may reduce the hypotensive effect of antihypertensive drugs. Blood pressure monitoring is advised.
Live or Live-attenuated Vaccines
Avoid in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of deflazacort due to the risk of severe infection.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., Insulin, Metformin)
Deflazacort may increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Concomitant use with NSAIDs increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, Ritonavir)
May increase deflazacort plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased systemic corticosteroid effects. Dosage adjustment may be needed.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital)
May decrease deflazacort plasma concentrations, potentially reducing its therapeutic effect. Increased deflazacort dosage may be required.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids, including deflazacort, is generally not associated with life-threatening consequences. Symptoms may include exacerbation of common side effects such as increased appetite, fluid retention, mood changes, and gastrointestinal upset. Management is primarily supportive; no specific antidote exists. Long-term overdose may lead to Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression, and other chronic corticosteroid effects. Gradual withdrawal may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when Dezacot is administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to deflazacort or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines in immunocompromised patients
Drug Interactions
Antihypertensives
Corticosteroids may reduce the hypotensive effect of antihypertensive drugs. Blood pressure monitoring is advised.
Live or Live-attenuated Vaccines
Avoid in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of deflazacort due to the risk of severe infection.
Antidiabetic agents (e.g., Insulin, Metformin)
Deflazacort may increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Concomitant use with NSAIDs increases the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin, Ritonavir)
May increase deflazacort plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased systemic corticosteroid effects. Dosage adjustment may be needed.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital)
May decrease deflazacort plasma concentrations, potentially reducing its therapeutic effect. Increased deflazacort dosage may be required.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids, including deflazacort, is generally not associated with life-threatening consequences. Symptoms may include exacerbation of common side effects such as increased appetite, fluid retention, mood changes, and gastrointestinal upset. Management is primarily supportive; no specific antidote exists. Long-term overdose may lead to Cushingoid features, adrenal suppression, and other chronic corticosteroid effects. Gradual withdrawal may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when Dezacot is administered to a nursing woman. Consult a doctor before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, specific expiry date mentioned on the pack.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
Clinical Trials
Deflazacort has undergone numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, where it has shown benefits in improving muscle function and delaying disease progression.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Blood pressure
- Electrolytes (e.g., potassium)
- Bone mineral density (with long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
- Ophthalmic exams (with long-term use to check for cataracts/glaucoma)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual dose tapering to patients.
- Monitor for signs of infection and metabolic disturbances.
- Consider bone protection strategies for long-term users.
- Educate patients on potential mood changes and report promptly.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Dezacot abruptly, especially after prolonged use. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is required to avoid adrenal crisis.
- Take Dezacot with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections (e.g., chickenpox, measles) while on Dezacot, as your immunity may be suppressed.
- Report any unusual side effects or worsening of your condition to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Dezacot may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
- Regular exercise, if appropriate for your condition, can help manage weight and muscle strength.
- Limit salt intake to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure.
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