Deflazacort

Generic name: deflazacort [ de-FLAZ-a-kort ]
Brand name: Emflaza
Dosage forms: oral suspension (22.75 mg/mL); oral tablet (18 mg; 30 mg; 36 mg; 6 mg)
Drug class:Glucocorticoids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 20, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is deflazacort?

Deflazacort is a steroid that is used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy in adults and children at least 2 years old.

Deflazacort is not a cure for muscular dystrophy, but deflazacort may improve muscle strength and slow the progression of disability.

Deflazacort may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use deflazacort if you are allergic to it.

Deflazacort should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old. Deflazacort oral suspension (liquid) contains an ingredient that can cause serious side effects or death in very young or premature babies.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• any type of bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasite infection;

• heart problems, high blood pressure;

• a stroke or blood clot;

• fluid retention;

• kidney disease;

• liver disease (especially hepatitis B);

• a stomach or intestinal disorder;

• a colostomy or ileostomy;

• cataracts, glaucoma, or herpes infection of the eyes;

• diabetes;

• a nerve-muscle disorder, such as myasthenia gravis;

• low bone mineral density; or

• a problem with your thyroid, pituitary gland, or adrenal gland.

You should be current on all vaccines. Tell your doctor if you have recently received a vaccine or if you are scheduled for a booster dose.

Long-term use of steroids may lead to bone loss (osteoporosis), especially if you smoke, if you do not exercise, if you do not get enough vitamin D or calcium in your diet, or if you have a family history of osteoporosis.

Taking deflazacort during early pregnancy may increase the risk of cleft lip and palate in a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Taking deflazacort at a...