Zacort Oral Suspension

Introduction

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is a synthetic glucocorticoid used to treat a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel conditions, and asthma. It decreases inflammation and suppresses the immune system.

Uses

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml can be used to control inflammation and discomfort caused by a variety of diseases and conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, polymyalgia rheumatica, and other autoimmune conditions.

Mechanism of Action

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml acts by reducing levels of inflammation-causing chemicals in the body and by suppressing the immune system. It binds to certain glucocorticoid receptors in the cell nucleus that reduce inflammation.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of deflazacort may begin to be noticed within 1-2 weeks of beginning treatment, however it may take up to 6 weeks to reach its full anti-inflammatory effect.

Absorption

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml can be absorbed through the digestive system when taken orally.

Route of Elimination

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is eliminated via the liver and kidneys in the form of metabolites.

Dosage

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is available in oral tablets (6mg, 18mg, and 30mg) and an injectable form (10mg/mL). The recommended dose for adult for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions is 7.5-30mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses. The recommended dose for pediatric for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions is 0.3-1mg/kg per day, divided into 2-3 doses.

Administration

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml should be taken with food to increase its absorption. On days when you skip a dose, take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is weight gain, swelling, and acne. Other rare side effects may include stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, and insomnia.

Toxicity

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is generally considered safe when used as instructed. However, long-term use can lead to serious side effects such as thinning of the bones (osteoporosis), high blood glucose levels, an increased risk of infection, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Precautions

Patients taking Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml should not stop taking it abruptly, as this can worsen symptoms. Patients should also not take more of this medication than prescribed. Common side effects such as acne may occur, however it is important to contact your doctor if more serious side effects develop.

Interactions

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml may interact with other medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Disease Interactions

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is not recommended for use in people with diabetes, glaucoma, tuberculosis, or any other active infections.

Drug Interactions

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml can interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, antifungals, and immunosuppressants. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Food Interactions

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml should be taken with food to increase its absorption.

Pregnancy Use

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml is categorized as pregnancy category C by the FDA. This means that the use of deflazacort during pregnancy is not recommended unless the potential benefit to the mother outweighs any potential risks to the fetus.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml passes into breastmilk. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medication. Women should discuss any potential risks to their infant with their physician.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include weight gain, swelling, headaches, dizziness, and insomnia.

Contraindication

Zacort Oral Suspension 6 mg/5 ml should not be used in people with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components.

Use Direction

Take the dosage as recommended by your doctor. Do not take a larger dose or take it more often than prescribed. Do not stop taking it abruptly as this can worsen your condition.