What are the possible side effects of Deflazacort?

Deflazacort is a corticosteroid whose clinical value lies in delaying the deterioration of muscle function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. However, like all long-term glucocorticoid drugs, while it improves the course of the disease, it may also cause a series of side effects, which require joint attention and management by patients and doctors.

The most common adverse reactions are related to the pharmacological mechanism of glucocorticoids. Long-term use of Deflazacort may cause weight gain, increased appetite, and typical Cushingoid changes such as a "moon face." Some patients will experience a decrease in bone density, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. For children who are still in the growth and development stage, drugs may inhibit the growth rate, so doctors usually monitor the height and weight curve during long-term follow-up and intervene combined with bone age assessment.

In terms of metabolism, Deflazacort may cause an increase in blood sugar levels and increase the risk of diabetes. This is especially true in patients with a family history or a tendency to develop metabolic syndrome. At the same time, it may also lead to elevated blood pressure and dyslipidemia, and these long-term complications need to be controlled through lifestyle management and necessary pharmaceutical intervention.

Immunosuppressive effects are also a risk that cannot be ignored. Patients may be more susceptible to infections, especially respiratory and urinary tract infections, during long-term medication. Therefore, special clinical recommendations are often given regarding vaccination and infection prevention. For example, live vaccination requires caution during the use of Deflazacort to avoid complications due to reduced immunity.

In addition, some patients may experience mental and emotional changes, including irritability, anxiety, and even depression, which are related to the effects of glucocorticoids on the central nervous system. For children and adolescent patients, parents need to pay attention to their learning, mood and sleep conditions, and communicate with their doctors in time if any abnormalities are found.

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