What is Defcort 30?
Defcort 30 mg refers to tablets containing 30 mg of deflazacort, a synthetic glucocorticoid (steroid) medication used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Defcort 30 is a prescription drug, often prescribed for conditions like Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), rheumatoid arthritis, and certain skin disorders.
Deflazacort is similar to prednisone but with potentially fewer side effects on bone metabolism. It’s been used clinically since the 1980s, with evidence from trials showing efficacy in reducing inflammation and muscle wasting.
Manufacturer
Defcort 30 is manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., an Indian pharmaceutical company. It’s available in India and some international markets under this brand.
Generic versions of deflazacort may be produced by other companies like Sun Pharma or Cipla, but always verify the brand for consistency.
Composition
Each Defcort 30 tablet contains:
- Active Ingredient: Deflazacort (30 mg).
- Inactive Ingredients: Typically include lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and other excipients for tablet formulation. Some versions may be lactose-free; check the label for allergens.
Working
Deflazacort works by mimicking cortisol, a natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands, to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
- Mechanism: Defcort 30 binds to glucocorticoid receptors, inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins. This reduces swelling, pain, and immune responses in affected tissues.
- Efficacy: Clinical studies (e.g., in Neurology and Journal of Rheumatology) show it slows muscle degeneration in DMD by 20-30% and improves joint function in arthritis. It’s metabolized to active forms that provide anti-inflammatory effects with a lower impact on calcium metabolism compared to other steroids.
How to Use Defcort 30?
- Take orally with water, preferably with food to minimize stomach upset.
- Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it.
- Use at the same time each day for consistency.
- Follow your doctor’s dosing schedule; it’s often tapered off gradually to avoid withdrawal.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, but skip if it’s almost time for the next one—do not double-dose.
Dosage
- Standard Dose: Varies by condition; for DMD, 0.9 mg/kg/day (often 30-60 mg/day for adults); for arthritis, 6-18 mg/day initially, then tapered.
- Adjustments: Dosing is individualized based on age, weight, response, and condition. Pediatric doses are lower (e.g., 0.3-0.6 mg/kg/day). Long-term use requires monitoring for side effects.
- Duration: Short-term for acute flares; long-term for chronic conditions like DMD, under strict medical supervision.
Warnings and Precautions
- Inform your doctor about allergies, infections, diabetes, hypertension, or mental health issues.
- Regular monitoring needed: Blood pressure, blood sugar, bone density, eye exams, and adrenal function tests every 3-6 months.
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
- Not for use in acute infections without antibiotics.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks, as it may affect fetal development.
- Interactions: With vaccines, NSAIDs, or drugs affecting potassium levels—consult your doctor.
Benefits
- Primary Benefits: Reduces inflammation and slows disease progression in DMD (delays loss of ambulation by years) and arthritis (improves joint mobility and pain relief).
- Additional Benefits: Suppresses autoimmune responses in conditions like lupus or vasculitis; may improve quality of life in chronic inflammatory diseases.
- Evidence: Supported by trials (e.g., CINRG Duchenne Natural History Study) showing significant functional improvements with fewer corticosteroid-related side effects on bones.
Avoid Taking Defcort 30
- If you have systemic fungal infections, untreated tuberculosis, or active viral infections (e.g., herpes).
- In cases of severe liver disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or hypersensitivity to deflazacort.
- During pregnancy, unless essential, or if breastfeeding without medical advice.
- With live vaccines or if you have a history of steroid-induced psychosis.
- Do not use for non-inflammatory conditions or as a substitute for other therapies.
Side Effects
Common side effects (affecting 10-50% of users, per clinical data):
- Increased appetite, weight gain, or fluid retention.
- Mood changes, insomnia, or mild stomach upset.
- Acne or skin thinning.
Serious side effects (seek immediate help):
- Adrenal suppression (fatigue, weakness).
- Increased infection risk, high blood sugar, or hypertension.
- Osteoporosis, cataracts, or glaucoma.
- Allergic reactions (rash, swelling).
Where to Store
- Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (15-25°C/59-77°F), away from moisture and heat.
- Keep in the original blister pack or container to protect from light.
- Out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not refrigerate; check expiration date and discard safely if expired.
Conclusion
Defcort 30 is a valuable corticosteroid for managing inflammatory conditions like DMD and arthritis, offering anti-inflammatory benefits with a potentially better side effect profile than older steroids.
However, it requires careful use due to risks like immunosuppression and adrenal issues. Always use under prescription with regular monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy. If prescribed, follow your doctor’s guidance closely for optimal outcomes.
FAQS
Can Defcort 30 be used for asthma?
It’s not first-line; other inhalable steroids are preferred for respiratory conditions.
Does it affect fertility?
Long-term use may suppress hormones, but effects are usually reversible—discuss with a doctor.
How does it compare to prednisone?
Deflazacort has similar anti-inflammatory effects but less impact on bones and calcium levels.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, for conditions like DMD, but doses are adjusted and monitored closely for growth effects.
What if I have diabetes?
It can raise blood sugar, so monitor levels and adjust insulin as needed.
