Deflazacort

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Cat Number

API14484470

CAS Number

14484-47-0

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Product Detail Description Scientific Support Customer Q&A

CAS Number

14484-47-0

EINECS

238-483-7

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

Emflaza; Deflazacortum; DTXSID9020378; MDL 458; DL-458IT

Molecular Formula

C25H31NO6

Molecular Weight

441.5

Smiles

CC1=N[C@@]2([C@H](O1)C[C@@H]3[C@@]2(C[C@@H]([C@H]4[C@H]3CCC5=CC(=O)C=C[C@]45C)O)C)C(=O)COC(=O)C

Appearance

White to off-white powder

Melting Point

255-256.5°C

Boiling Point

585.0±50.0°C at 760 mmHg

Relative Density

1.5±0.1

General Description

Deflazacort is an oxazoline derivative of prednisolone, structurally modified by an oxazoline ring at the 16α,17α position. This substitution reduces mineralocorticoid activity and may alter bone metabolism. The molecule is a glucocorticoid prodrug that is rapidly converted to its active metabolite, 21-desacetyldeflazacort, by plasma esterases.

Mechanism of Action

The active metabolite binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, and the complex translocates to the nucleus to regulate gene transcription. It suppresses inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α), inhibits phospholipase A2 and COX-2, and reduces NF-κB activation. Compared to prednisone, deflazacort has less sodium-retaining activity and may have a more favorable effect on bone mineral density due to reduced osteoclast activation and increased calcium absorption.

Application

Deflazacort is indicated for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients aged 5 years and older, slowing the decline in muscle strength and prolonging ambulation. It is also used for a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, nephrotic syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Phase III double‑blind trial (196 boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy) compared deflazacort (DFZ 0.9 and 1.2 mg/kg/d), prednisone (PRED 0.75 mg/kg/d), and placebo over 12 weeks (phase 1) and then an additional 40 weeks (phase 2). All active treatments significantly improved muscle strength vs. placebo at 12 weeks. PRED caused significantly more weight gain than placebo or either DFZ dose at both 12 and 52 weeks. Adverse events (Cushingoid appearance, erythema, hirsutism, etc.) were similar across active arms. Deflazacort is as effective as prednisone but with less weight gain.

Fig. 1 Change in average muscle strength score (intention-to-treat population). (Griggs RC, et al., 2016)

References

Griggs RC, et al. Efficacy and safety of deflazacort vs prednisone and placebo for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neurology. 2016;87(20):2123-2131.

Does Deflazacort require protection from light and moisture during storage?

Yes, it is sensitive to both light and moisture. Store in original, tightly sealed, light-resistant containers with desiccant to prevent hydrolysis and photodegradation.

What is the recommended storage temperature for Deflazacort?

Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid excessive heat above 30°C, which accelerates deacetylation and oxidation of the corticosteroid ring.

Is Deflazacort stable in oral tablet formulations with standard excipients?

Yes, when formulated with moisture-protective packaging.

How is the impurity deflazacort 21-deacetyl (active metabolite) monitored?

This primary hydrolysis product is specifically quantified using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains within pharmacopoeial limits.