Deflazacort (Calcort) is a glucocorticoid drug mainly used for the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
Indications for Deflazacort (Calcort)
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Deflazacort has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged 5 years and above, which is the primary indication of this drug.
Clinical studies have shown that deflazacort can delay the degeneration of muscle function in DMD patients, improve motor function, and prolong the duration of maintaining walking ability.
Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases
Deflazacort can also be used to treat a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, severe asthma, allergic diseases, etc.
Its anti-inflammatory effect is approximately 70% that of prednisone, but it has relatively fewer side effects.
Specifications and Properties of Deflazacort (Calcort)
Oral Suspension
The specification of the newly approved deflazacort oral suspension is 22.75 mg/mL.
This suspension is a combination product, consisting of the drug and device components.
Tablets
Common specifications of deflazacort tablets include 6 mg, 18 mg, and 30 mg. The tablets are generally white or off-white, and their specific properties may vary slightly among different manufacturers.
The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be split or crushed.
Storage and Usage of Deflazacort (Calcort)
Storage Conditions
Both deflazacort oral suspension and tablets should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C), and short-term storage in an environment of 15-30°C is allowed.
It is important to keep the drug out of the reach of children, and avoid direct sunlight and humid environments.
The suspension should be kept in intact packaging before opening; after opening, it should be stored in accordance with the requirements in the instruction manual.
Oral Suspension
Shake well thoroughly before use.
Use a dedicated administration device to accurately measure the dosage.
It can be mixed with a small amount of water or fruit juice for administration to improve the taste.
After opening, it must be used up within the specified time.
Tablets
It is recommended to take it after breakfast in the morning to conform to the body's cortisol secretion rhythm.
Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew or crush them.
Patients taking the drug for a long time should not stop taking it suddenly and need to gradually reduce the dosage.
