Why is this medication prescribed?

Emflaza (deflazacort) is a corticosteroid medication that is primarily prescribed to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged 2 years and older. DMD is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. Emflaza helps to improve muscle strength and function and delay the progression of the disease.

How should this medicine be used?

Emflaza (deflazacort) is typically prescribed for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged 2 years and older. It is essential to use Emflaza exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The dosage of Emflaza will be determined by your healthcare provider based on factors such as your age, weight, and the severity of your condition. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage.
• Administration: Emflaza is usually taken orally. It is available in the form of tablets or oral suspension. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so. If you are using the oral suspension, shake the bottle well before each use.
• Timing: Emflaza can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding when to take the medication.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Emflaza, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Duration of Treatment: Continue taking Emflaza for as long as your healthcare provider prescribes it, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor, as suddenly stopping may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your response to Emflaza and may adjust your dosage if necessary. Attend all scheduled appointments and inform your doctor of any changes in your condition.
• Potential Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Emflaza and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with Emflaza.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Emflaza. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use the medication, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Emflaza (deflazacort) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). However, it may also be used off-label for other conditions such as inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, ulcerative colitis, and certain skin conditions like dermatomyositis.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Emflaza, it’s essential to follow certain precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment. Here are some special precautions to keep in mind:

• Medical History: Before starting Emflaza, inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, past medical conditions, and current medications you are taking. Be especially sure to mention if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, or any mental health disorders.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Emflaza with your doctor. Emflaza may harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk, potentially causing harm to a nursing infant.
• Immunizations: Avoid receiving live vaccines while taking Emflaza, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of the vaccine. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on appropriate immunizations.
• Infections: Corticosteroids like Emflaza may weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Take precautions to avoid exposure to contagious illnesses, and promptly report any signs of infection, such as fever, sore throat, or cough, to your doctor.
• Bone Health: Long-term use of corticosteroids like Emflaza can lead to bone loss (osteoporosis) and an increased risk of fractures. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, calcium and vitamin D supplements, weight-bearing exercises, or other interventions to help maintain bone health.
• Glucose Monitoring: Emflaza can affect blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and report any significant changes to your doctor.
• Eye Health: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Report any changes in vision or eye discomfort to your doctor.
• Psychiatric Effects: Corticosteroids may cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression in some individuals. Inform your doctor if you experience any changes in mood or behavior while taking Emflaza.
• Withdrawal: Do not abruptly stop taking Emflaza without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, or fever. Your doctor may need to taper the dose gradually to minimize these effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you have about using Emflaza. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual health needs and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Emflaza can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, as long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Discuss any specific dietary concerns or restrictions with your healthcare provider, as individual dietary needs may vary based on your medical condition and other factors.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take a dose of Emflaza, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you frequently forget doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance on managing your medication schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Emflaza (deflazacort) can cause various side effects, some of which may require medical attention. Common side effects of Emflaza include:

• Weight gain: Corticosteroids like Emflaza can cause fluid retention and increased appetite, leading to weight gain.
• Increased susceptibility to infections: Corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: These may include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion.
• Mood changes: Corticosteroids may cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression in some individuals.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may occur as a side effect of Emflaza.
• Changes in glucose metabolism: Emflaza can affect blood sugar levels, leading to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) in some individuals, or rarely, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Increased risk of osteoporosis: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to bone loss and an increased risk of osteoporosis, which may result in fractures.
• Cataracts and glaucoma: Long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma.
• Adrenal suppression: Corticosteroids can suppress the function of the adrenal glands, leading to adrenal insufficiency, especially when the medication is abruptly discontinued.
• Skin changes: Thin, fragile skin, easy bruising, and delayed wound healing may occur with long-term corticosteroid use.
• Muscle weakness: Although Emflaza is used to treat muscular dystrophy, muscle weakness can be a side effect in some individuals.
• Delayed growth in children: Long-term use of corticosteroids may affect growth and development in children.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency of side effects can vary from person to person. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while taking Emflaza, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment regimen if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal instructions for Emflaza:

• Storage:
  • Store Emflaza tablets and oral suspension at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
  • Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not freeze Emflaza oral suspension. If it has been frozen, discard it and obtain a new supply.
  • Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of any unused or expired Emflaza tablets or oral suspension properly according to local guidelines or regulations.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for guidance on the safe disposal of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Emflaza:

• In case of an overdose of Emflaza, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, confusion, increased thirst or urination, rapid weight gain, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
• If possible, bring the Emflaza packaging or container to the healthcare provider or emergency room to aid in treatment.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up while taking Emflaza.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists and surgeons) that you are taking Emflaza, as it may interact with other medications or treatments.
• Carry a medical alert card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating that you are taking Emflaza, especially if you are at risk of adrenal insufficiency.
• Do not share Emflaza with others, even if they have a similar condition, as it may not be safe or effective for them.
• Keep a list of all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal supplements or vitamins, and share this information with your healthcare provider.
• Follow any additional instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of Emflaza, including dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, or other precautions.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and effective use of Emflaza and minimize the risk of adverse effects or complications. If you have any questions or concerns about storage, disposal, emergency procedures, or other aspects of Emflaza use, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.