You are on page 1of 16

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.

uk

Page 1 of 16

Patient.co.uk - Trusted medical information and support


Skip to content Patient Access Home Wellbeing Health Information Search health information
Search health information

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Diseases and Conditions


Arthritic / Bone / Muscle Blood / Allergy Brain / Nerves / Neurology Cancer Chest / Lung Diabetes / Hormone Ear / Nose / Throat / Mouth Eyes Genito-urinary / Kidney Gut / Bowel / Stomach Heart / Blood Vessels Infections Injury / Accidents Liver / Gallbladder Mental Health Sexual Health Skin / Nail Disorders

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 2 of 16

Symptom information Symptom checker

Treatments and information


Anatomy / Body Benefits / Social Contraception Health Promotion Immunisation Medications Surgical Procedures Tests / Investigations Pregnancy and Newborns Child Health Teenage Health Women's Health Men's Health Senior Health Medicines Search health information Search for a medicine ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Medicines used for:


Allergies Blood / Nutrition Disorders Breathing Problems Cancer Deficiencies Ear / Nose / Throat / Mouth Endocrine Disorders Eye Conditions Gastrointestinal Conditions

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 3 of 16

The Genito-urinary System Heart Problems HRT The Immune System Immunisation Infections Inflammation Kidney Conditions Metabolic Disorders Muscles / Joints Nausea / Vomiting The Nervous System Pain The Reproductive System Skin Conditions Substance Misuse Professional Reference

PatientPlus
Search our database of PatientPlus medical articles written by our expert medical authoring team.

Search professional reference

Search professional reference

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

UK clinical guidelines
Search our database of links to UK clinical guidelines - including NICE, SIGN, GAIN, and Professional Colleges.

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting the Year"

Search UK clinical guidelines Search clinical guidelines us "Website of ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Like

40k

Other resources
PatientPro

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 4 of 16

Medical calculators Images and pictures Medical Students New clinical leaflets Forums Directory Blogs Patient Access Register for Access Welcome to Patient.co.uk MyHealth | Register | Sign in Blogs | Shop | Symptom checker Search Patient.co.uk
Search Patient.co.uk

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort


Our resources on Deflazacort tablets - Calcort
Article Related Support Discuss
On this page
About deflazacort Before taking deflazacort How to take deflazacort Getting the most from your treatment Can deflazacort cause problems? How to store deflazacort Important information about all medicines References

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting

Deflazacort belongs to a class of medicines known as corticosteroids (more commonly called steroids). us "Website of the Year" Your pharmacist will give you a blue steroid treatment card. Carry this with you at all times.

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 5 of 16

Take your doses of deflazacort with your breakfast. If you need any medical treatment, make sure the person treating you knows you are taking deflazacort. This is because your dose may need to be increased for a short while.

About deflazacort
Type of medicine Used for Also called Available as Corticosteroid Allergic and inflammatory conditions in adults or children Calcort Tablets

Deflazacort belongs to a group of medicines called corticosteroids. It is sometimes referred to as an oral steroid, or simply, a steroid. Corticosteroids like deflazacort are used to treat a large number of conditions. Some examples include autoimmune diseases (for example, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), autoimmune hepatitis, sarcoidosis); joint and muscle diseases (for example, rheumatoid arthritis); and allergies and asthma. They are also used in the treatment of some cancers. Deflazacort works by stopping the release of certain chemicals in your body which cause inflammation.

Current discussions
Get help and support from hundreds of other people like you in our discussion forums: Autoimmune hepatitis. AnnIsh 0 replies fybramyalgia osteoarthritis rheumatoid arthritis chatty cathy 0 replies rheumatoid arthritis Guest 0 replies

Was your visit today useful?


Share your story now ?

If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

Before taking deflazacort

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking deflazacort it is important that your doctor knows:

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 6 of 16

If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding. If you have high blood pressure. If you have had a heart attack or have any other heart problems. If you have liver or kidney problems. If you or anyone in your family has diabetes mellitus or glaucoma (increased eye pressure). If you have osteoporosis (weakened bones). If you have an underactive thyroid. If you have ever had a mental health problem, such as depression or psychosis. If you have epilepsy. If you have had a stomach ulcer or an inflammatory bowel disorder. If you have recently had, or are about to have, any vaccinations. If you have any kind of infection, or if you have ever had tuberculosis (TB). If you (or anyone you are in close contact with) have recently had chickenpox, measles or shingles. If you have ever had a blood clot in an artery or vein. If you have myasthenia gravis (this is a condition causing muscle weakness). If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine, or if you have ever developed muscle pain after taking a steroid medicine.

How to take deflazacort


Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack of tablets, and also any other printed information you have been given by your doctor or pharmacist. The manufacturer's leaflet will give you more information about deflazacort and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking it. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how many tablets to take for each dose. For an adult, the dose range is usually from -3 tablets daily, although it may be higher than this if you are acutely unwell. Take your dose in the morning after breakfast. Children are sometimes prescribed a dose to take on alternate days only. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose. Continue to take deflazacort unless your doctor tells you to stop. Stopping taking these tablets suddenly will cause problems so your doctor will want to reduce your dose gradually if this becomes necessary.

Getting the most from your treatment


You will be given a 'steroid treatment card' which says that you are on steroids and contains some important advice for you. It is important that you read this card and carry it with you at all times. It also contains details about your dose, how long you have been taking deflazacort for, and who prescribed it for you. Please make sure that this information is kept up-to-date. If you are having an operation or dental treatment or any treatment for an injury, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking deflazacort and show them your treatment card. This is because your dose may need adjusting. Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress. Your doctor will want you to have tests from time to time to make sure you remain free from some of the unwanted side-effects of treatment. Deflazacort may suppress your immune system, so it is important if you become ill that you make an appointment to see your doctor straightaway. Also, if you come into contact with anyone who has measles, shingles or chickenpox (or anyone who suspects they might have them), you must see your doctor as soon as possible. Some vaccines are not suitable for you while you are being treated with deflazacort. If you need any immunisations, make sure you mention that you are taking an oral steroid. If you buy any medicines, check with your pharmacist that they are suitable to take with deflazacort. This is particularly important if you take a medicine for indigestion (such as an antacid), as indigestion remedies should not be taken during the two hours before you take deflazacort, or for two hours afterwards. This is because antacids interfere with the way deflazacort is absorbed by your body, making it less effective.

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 7 of 16

Can deflazacort cause problems?


Along with its useful effects, deflazacort can cause unwanted side-effects which your doctor will discuss with you. The benefits of taking deflazacort usually outweigh the side-effects; however, they can sometimes be troublesome. The table below contains some of the most common ones. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Although not everyone experiences sideeffects, and some will improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you become concerned about any of the following. Common deflazacort side-effects Abdominal pain, indigestion, feeling sick What can I do if I experience this? Stick to simple or bland foods. If you are sick and there is blood present, you should speak with your doctor straightaway Muscle weakness or feeling tired If this happens, do not drive or use tools or machines until you feel more awake Mood or behavioural changes, especially at the beginning of treatment If you become confused, irritable or start having worrying thoughts about harming yourself, speak with your doctor as soon as possible Difficulties sleeping, feeling confused, increased weight, thrush, and irregular periods Long-term treatment with deflazacort may cause other unwanted effects If you have any symptoms which are causing you concern, you should arrange to see your doctor for advice If any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

For more information about side-effects which are possible when deflazacort is taken long-term, see the separate condition leaflet called Oral Steroids.

How to store deflazacort


Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else might have taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty. This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you. If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Provide feedback

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 8 of 16

Further reading & references


Manufacturer's PIL, Calcort 6 mg; Sanofi, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated March 2012. British National Formulary; 65th Edition (Mar 2013) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London
Original Author: Helen Allen Last Checked: 01/08/2013 Current Version: Helen Allen Document ID: 3763 Version: 23 Peer Reviewer: Dr Adrian Bonsall EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

Further information
You may find the following related information of interest to you: Betamethasone soluble tablets (Betnesol) Hay Fever Mometasone inhaler Ciclesonide inhaler Beclometasone inhaler + 84 more Search over 1,800 pages of patient information and medicine reference Search patient information
Search patient information

Find support
Discuss Deflazacort tablets - Calcort in our forums

National support groups


Asthma UK British Lung Foundation Allergy UK The Healthy House Ltd + 17 more

EFA - European Federation of Asthma and Allergy Association

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 9 of 16

Search for support groups and services Search patient support


Search patient support

Professional reference
If you want more in-depth information, see our related articles aimed at health professionals: Precautions for Patients on Steroids Under... Chapter 7 - Renal / Respiratory Disorders ... Spirometry Calculator Peak Flow Recording Guidelines + 28 more Search over 2,000 articles aimed at health professionals Search professional reference
Search professional reference

Advertise with us >>

40k
Like

Was your visit today useful?

Patient.co.uk Local
Find services and information local to you

If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"


Enter your town or postcode

Enter your postcode to find your area

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 10 of 16

Sarah Says - Dr. Sarah Jarvis' health & wellness blog on Patient.co.uk
Latest posts Parkinson's disease - more than just movement Meningitis - be aware E-cigarettes - a safer alternativeWas or a deadly your craze? visit Varicose veins - the lowdown If so, please Migraines - more than a pain in the head Read more

today useful?

consider voting

us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 11 of 16

Subscribe to our mailing list


* indicates required Email Address * Are you a * patient health professional

Health Care
www.worldwidewhoswho

Bob Antin - Chairman & CEO of VCA Antech Inc. Read more now!

Ready to Publish a Book?


www.partridgepublishing.

Colgate Total Toothpaste


www.colgate.co.in/colgat

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

3 Herbs that Beat Anxiety


www.a2xanxiety.com

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 12 of 16

How often on average do you have sex?


More than twice a week

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

Once a week

Once a month

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 13 of 16

Less than once a month

View Poll Results

Mobile Patient
With our new free app you can search our database of information, find your local hospital, dentist, See more pharmacies and of more!

our apps

Share your experiences

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 14 of 16

in the Visit the forums forums

Patient.co.uk on Twitter
Patient.co.uk @patientuk What does a diagnosis of #Parkinson's mean 4 Billy Connolly - and for 127,000 others in the UK? ow.ly/p80Bz Show Summary Patient.co.uk @patientuk We're delighted to say that the winner of the Jawbone UP wristband is...@likeme247 ! Congratulations, please DM us your address :)
1h

2h

follow us on twitter Disclaimer: Patient.co.uk has no control over the content of any external links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient.co.uk.

Symptom checkerIf so, please consider voting tool


Assess your symptoms online Choose with this handy a symptom tool created by NHS

Was your visit today useful? us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 15 of 16

Direct and receive feedback on Patient.co.uk isyour one best of the most trusted medical resources in the UK, supplying course of action. evidence based information on a wide range of medical and health topics to patients and health professionals. Search Patient.co.uk
Search Patient.co.uk

For Patients
Wellbeing Health Information Medicines Discussion Forums Directory Patient Access

For Professionals
Patient Plus UK Clinical Guidelines Evidence Based Medicine Textbooks and Journals News Higher education

Our Blogs
Sarah Says... George Ford For healthcare professionals

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

About Patient.co.uk
About Us Accessibility

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

Deflazacort tablets - Calcort | Medicine | Patient.co.uk

Page 16 of 16

Advertise With Us Awards Careers Contact / Feedback Cookie policy Disclaimer / Terms Editorial Policy FAQs Mobile Access Media Enquiries Search widget Site Map Egton Medical Information Systems Limited. Registered in England. No 2117205 Registered Office: Rawdon House, Green Lane, Yeadon, Leeds LS19 7BY

Was your visit today useful? If so, please consider voting us "Website of the Year"

http://www.patient.co.uk/medicine/deflazacort-tablets-calcort

24/Sep/2013

You might also like