Zacort
Generic Name
Deflazacort
Manufacturer
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zacort 24 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zacort 24 mg Tablet contains Deflazacort, which is a corticosteroid medication. It is used to treat various inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions. It works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies greatly depending on the condition being treated. Typical initial doses range from 6 mg to 90 mg daily, usually tapered over time. For Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the recommended dose is 0.9 mg/kg/day.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but use with caution due to increased risk of side effects and age-related decline in organ function. Lower doses may be appropriate.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases.
How to Take
Take Zacort tablets orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not chew or crush the tablet; swallow it whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Deflazacort is a prodrug that is rapidly converted to its active metabolite, deflazacort 21-oic acid. This active metabolite binds to glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene expression to produce anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-allergic effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects can begin within hours, but full therapeutic benefits may take several days.
Excretion
Approximately 70% of the active metabolite is excreted in the urine, and about 30% in the feces.
Half life
The plasma half-life of the active metabolite is 1.5-2 hours, but its biological effects persist longer.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations of the active metabolite are reached within 1.5-2 hours.
Metabolism
Deflazacort is a prodrug that undergoes rapid first-pass metabolism in the liver to its active metabolite, deflazacort 21-oic acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or any component of the tablet
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during Deflazacort therapy
Drug Interactions
Oral hypoglycemics/Insulin
Deflazacort may increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medications.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May alter the effects of anticoagulants, requiring dose adjustment and close monitoring.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
May increase Deflazacort levels, enhancing its effects and side effects.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Rifampicin, Barbiturates)
May decrease Deflazacort levels, reducing its efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include exaggeration of known side effects. Management involves supportive and symptomatic treatment; no specific antidote is available. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Deflazacort is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or any component of the tablet
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during Deflazacort therapy
Drug Interactions
Oral hypoglycemics/Insulin
Deflazacort may increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medications.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
May alter the effects of anticoagulants, requiring dose adjustment and close monitoring.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
May increase Deflazacort levels, enhancing its effects and side effects.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenytoin, Rifampicin, Barbiturates)
May decrease Deflazacort levels, reducing its efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include exaggeration of known side effects. Management involves supportive and symptomatic treatment; no specific antidote is available. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Deflazacort is excreted in breast milk; therefore, caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on manufacturer specifications.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Deflazacort has undergone numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including specific studies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Electrolyte levels (potassium, sodium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone mineral density (for long-term therapy)
- Ophthalmic examinations (for long-term therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual tapering to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients for signs of infection, especially atypical presentations.
- Advise patients on calcium and vitamin D supplementation for bone health with long-term use.
- Consider baseline and periodic ophthalmic examinations for patients on prolonged therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly; always taper the dose under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
- Take with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially signs of infection, vision changes, or severe mood swings, to your doctor.
- Regularly monitor blood sugar levels if you are diabetic.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections like chickenpox or measles, as your immune system may be suppressed.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Zacort generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, visual disturbances, or significant mood changes, avoid driving or operating machinery until you feel well.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to maintain muscle strength and bone density.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can worsen some side effects.
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