地夫可特的用药指南

Deflazacort is a corticosteroid drug suitable for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy 2 years old and above. The dosage must be accurately calculated based on the patient's weight, and attention should be paid to interactions with other drugs. Deflazacort may cause a variety of side effects, such as changes in endocrine function, immunosuppression, and increased risk of infection. Special groups such as pregnant women, lactating women, children and the elderly should use it with caution.

Usage and dosage of deflazacort

The usage and dosage of deflazacort must be strictly followed by the doctor to reduce adverse reactions. The following is the specific usage reference and precautions.

Recommended dosage

The recommended oral dosage of deflazacort is 0.9 mg/kg/day, once daily. If tablets are used, round to the nearest dose strength (6mg, 18mg, 30mg or 36mg). For oral suspensions, round to the nearest 0.1 ml. Patients can combine different strengths of tablets as needed to achieve the target dose.

Dose adjustment

If the patient is also using moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as clarithromycin, fluconazole, etc.), the dose of deflazacort needs to be adjusted to one-third of the recommended dose. For example, the original dose is 36 mg/day, and the adjusted dose should be 12 mg/day. Strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampicin) may reduce the efficacy of deflazacort and should be avoided during concurrent use.

Medication Precautions

Deflazacort can be taken with food or crushed and mixed into applesauce. It does not affect absorption. The first opened bottle of oral suspension should be used within 1 month and the remaining portion should be discarded. Blood pressure, blood sugar and bone density need to be monitored regularly during medication to prevent potential adverse reactions.

Side effects of deflazacort

Deflazacort may cause a variety of side effects, involving endocrine, immune, cardiovascular and other systems. The following are common side effects and countermeasures.

Changes in endocrine function

Long-term use of deflazacort may lead to Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia and adrenal insufficiency. Patients need to monitor blood sugar regularly, and the anti-diabetic treatment plan should be adjusted when hyperglycemia occurs. When discontinuing the drug, the dose needs to be gradually reduced to avoid acute adrenal insufficiency.

Immunosuppression and risk of infection

Deflazacort can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infections, such as chickenpox, measles, fungal infections, etc. Unimmunized patients should avoid contact with infected persons and use immune globulin for prophylaxis if necessary. If symptoms of infection occur, you need to seek medical treatment promptly and adjust your medication regimen.

Cardiovascular and gastrointestinal effects

Deflazacort may cause hypertension, water and sodium retention, and gastrointestinal perforation. Patients need to limit salt intake, supplement potassium, and monitor blood pressure. People with a history of gastrointestinal diseases should use it with caution and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of abdominal pain or peritoneal irritation occur.

Special population use of deflazacort

Special populations need to be extremely cautious when using deflazacort. The following is medication guidance for pregnant women, children, the elderly and other groups.

Pregnant and lactating women

Using deflazacort in pregnant women may cause abnormal fetal development, such as orofacial clefts or growth restriction. It should only be used when the benefits outweigh the risks. When a lactating woman takes medication, the medication may affect the baby through breast milk, and she needs to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether to continue breastfeeding.

Pediatric patients

Deflazacort is suitable for children 2 years old and above. The safety and effectiveness of patients under 2 years old have not been determined. Long-term medication may affect children's growth and development, and height, weight and bone density need to be monitored regularly.

Elderly patients and those with hepatic and renal insufficiency

Elderly patients have limited medication experience and need to use it under the guidance of a doctor. No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate hepatic and renal impairment, and use should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment.