How much does a box of Deflazacort cost?

Deflazacort (Deflazacort) is a synthetic glucocorticoid with multiple effects including anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and immunosuppressive effects. Its role in neuromuscular diseases is particularly prominent, and it has been approved by the US FDA for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), becoming the first oral glucocorticoid drug specifically used for this disease. Compared with traditional prednisone, deflazacort maintains efficacy while having relatively less impact on bone density, body weight, and blood glucose, making it better tolerated in long-term treatment regimens.

The pharmacokinetic characteristics of deflazacort make it more advantageous in children and adolescent patients. Its active metabolites act stably in the body and are not likely to cause significant water and sodium retention or hypertension. It is also more suitable for long-term management of chronic diseases. Because of this, it has gradually become one of the preferred alternatives to prednisone or methylprednisolone internationally. Currently in the European and American markets, deflazacort is regarded as an important drug to improve the quality of life of DMD patients, as it can delay muscle atrophy and prolong mobility.

In terms of price, the original drug of deflazacort was developed by ItalyItalfarmaco, with the trade name Emflaza, and is mainly sold in European and American markets. The drug has not yet been officially launched in China, so there is no official pricing and medical insurance reimbursement policy. However, referring to overseas market conditions, the European version of the original drug has a specification of 6 mg × 100 tablets/box and is priced at about RMB 1,000 to 1,300. The price varies slightly due to channels and exchange rate fluctuations. In addition, some countries (such as India) have launched generic versions of the drug. The common specifications are also 6 mg × 100 tablets. The price is about RMB 300. The active ingredients are basically the same as the original drug.

Reference: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/deflazacort.html