Adults

Dosage varies significantly based on the condition being treated. For Duchenne muscular dystrophy: 0.9 mg/kg/day orally. For other inflammatory or immunosuppressive conditions: typically 6-90 mg/day, adjusted based on response and tolerability.

Elderly

Use with caution. Lower initial doses and careful monitoring may be required due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects.

Renal_impairment

No specific dose adjustment is generally required for mild to moderate renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases. Monitor for signs of corticosteroid toxicity.

Onset

Onset of action varies depending on the condition being treated, usually within hours to days.

Excretion

Primarily excreted via urine (approximately 70%) and feces (approximately 30%) as metabolites.

Half life

The active metabolite (DFZ 21) has a plasma half-life of approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after oral administration and rapidly converted to its active metabolite, 21-desacetyl deflazacort (DFZ 21).

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized by esterases in the liver to its active metabolite, 21-desacetyl deflazacort.

NSAIDs

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.

Antacids

May reduce absorption of deflazacort; administer at least 2 hours apart.

Warfarin

May alter anticoagulant effects; INR monitoring required.

Ciclosporin

Increased plasma concentrations of both drugs, leading to increased risk of side effects.

CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin)

May decrease deflazacort levels, reducing efficacy.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)

May increase deflazacort levels, increasing risk of side effects.