Summary Information: Calcort, containing the active substance Deflazacort, is an oral corticosteroid medication used for the treatment of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Deflazacort is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Calcort is indicated for use in conditions such as asthma, arthritis, allergies, and diseases affecting the skin, kidneys, heart, digestive system, eyes, and blood. Additionally, it is used in the treatment of tumors and is particularly effective in managing Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Disease Indications:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): Calcort is widely used to improve muscle strength and function in patients with DMD, helping to slow disease progression and enhance quality of life.
• Asthma: Helps in reducing inflammation and controlling asthma symptoms.
• Arthritis: Provides relief from joint inflammation and pain associated with various forms of arthritis.
• Allergies: Reduces allergic reactions and associated symptoms.
• Skin Conditions: Treats inflammatory skin conditions, reducing redness, swelling, and itching.
• Kidney and Heart Conditions: Manages inflammation in kidney and heart diseases.
• Digestive System Disorders: Alleviates inflammation in digestive tract conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Eye Conditions: Reduces inflammation in various eye disorders.
• Blood Conditions: Used in the treatment of certain blood disorders to manage inflammation and immune response.
• Tumors: Helps in reducing inflammation and managing symptoms associated with certain types of tumors.

Usage Instructions: Calcort is taken orally, with the dosage and duration of treatment determined by a healthcare professional based on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s response to therapy. It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage regimen closely and not to discontinue use abruptly without medical supervision, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms and exacerbation of the underlying condition.

Benefits:

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Calcort effectively reduces inflammation, providing relief from symptoms in various inflammatory conditions.
• Immunosuppressive Properties: Helps in managing autoimmune diseases by suppressing abnormal immune responses.
• Muscle Function Improvement: In DMD, Calcort helps improve muscle strength and function, slowing disease progression.
• Symptom Relief: Provides significant relief from pain, swelling, redness, and other symptoms associated with inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Precautions:

• Medical Supervision: Calcort should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
• Gradual Dose Reduction: Do not discontinue use abruptly; follow a healthcare professional’s instructions for tapering the dose if necessary.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the patient’s condition and response to treatment is essential.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity: Patients with known hypersensitivity to Deflazacort or any of its components should not use Calcort.
• Infections: Use with caution in patients with active infections, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune system.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping.
• Serious Side Effects: High blood pressure, increased risk of infections, osteoporosis, and adrenal suppression.

It is important to discuss potential side effects and any concerns with a healthcare provider before starting Calcort.