Deflazacort
Emflaza (deflazacort) is a brand-name corticosteroid medication approved for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in patients 5 years of age and older. As a glucocorticoid prodrug, it works by reducing inflammation and suppressing immune system activity that contributes to muscle degeneration in DMD. It is available in both tablet and oral suspension formulations.
Emflaza is a corticosteroid used to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy by reducing inflammation and slowing muscle degeneration.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1870945
- Generic
- Emflaza
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Emflaza is FDA-approved for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in patients 5 years and older. It is indicated for all genetic variants of DMD, regardless of the specific mutation causing the condition.
Emflaza is a prodrug that is metabolized to its active form, deflazacort. It works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors and modulating gene expression, resulting in anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant effects that help reduce muscle inflammation and may slow the progression of muscle weakness in DMD.
Common side effects may include weight gain, increased appetite, upper respiratory infections, and Cushingoid appearance. Long-term use requires monitoring for potential complications including bone density loss, growth suppression in children, and metabolic changes. It may interact with other medications and should not be stopped abruptly without medical guidance.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy