Emflaza is a prescription medication that is used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Emflaza is a steroid that contains deflazacort. Emflaza is not a cure for muscular dystrophy but can help to slow down the progression of the condition while improving muscle strength.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Emflaza can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow Emflaza whole. If you cannot swallow this medication whole, crush the tablet and sprinkle it onto a spoonful of applesauce and swallow immediately.
• Your Emflaza dosage is based on weight. If you lose or gain weight, you may need to change your dose.
• You may need regular medical tests while taking Emflaza.
• Do not stop taking this medication without speaking to your doctor.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of heart problems, heart attack, kidney disease, liver disease, stroke, high blood pressure, fluid retention, stomach disorders, intestinal disorders, a colostomy, an ileostomy, diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, herpes infections of the eyes, nerve-muscle disorders, thyroid problems, pituitary gland disorders, adrenal gland disorders or low bone mineral density.
• If you have recently received a vaccination or if you are scheduled for a vaccine booster.
• If you have a family history of osteoporosis.
• If you smoke.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. This medication may cause harm to a baby when taken during pregnancy.
• If you do not get enough calcium or vitamin D in your diet.
• If you are breast-feeding.

You should also know:

• Do not receive a vaccine while taking Emflaza or for the six weeks before starting treatment.
• Avoid eating grapefruit and grapefruit products.
• This medication can weaken your immune system. Avoid people with chickenpox, measles, and other infections.
• Emflaza can affect growth in children. Speak to your doctor for more information.

Common side effects of Emflaza include but are not limited to:

• Frequent or urgent urination.
• Sleeping problems.
• Increased body hair.
• Weight gain, or change to the shape or location of body fat.
• Cold symptoms including sneezing, sore throat, stuffy nose, and coughing.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of deflazacort:

• Severe or persistent diarrhea.
• Any sign of rashes.
• Fever, chills, weakness, or sore throat.
• Severe muscle weakness.
• Eye pain or vision changes including blurred vision, tunnel vision or seeing halos around lights
• Swelling in the hands, legs, or feet.
• Signs of increased adrenal gland hormones including acne, skin discoloration, thinning skin menstrual changes, sexual changes, weight gain, slow wound healing, tiredness, increased body hair, or mood changes.
• Signs of decreased adrenal gland hormones including menstrual changes, skin discoloration, nausea, weakness, diarrhea, lightheadedness, or craving salty food.
• Signs of a low potassium level including increased thirst or urination, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in the chest, leg cramps, constipation, muscle weakness, limp feeling, numbness, or tingling.
• Signs of high blood sugar including increased thirst or urination, dry mouth, or a fruity breath odor.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Emflaza?

If you miss a dose of Emflaza, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What else is Emflaza called?

Emflaza is also known as Flantadin internationally. Flantadin is the same brand name medication with a different name internationally and is not a generic alternative medication. Generic Emflaza is called deflazacort.