Drug Interaction Report

Deflazacort may reduce the effects of eplerenone in lowering blood pressure. The interaction is most likely to occur when deflazacort is used for more than a week, since prolonged use can cause sodium and water retention. Let your doctor know if you experience sudden, unexplained weight gain or swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and supplements that contain grapefruit should be avoided during treatment with eplerenone as they may increase the blood levels and effects of eplerenone. High blood levels of eplerenone can increase the risk of side effects including hyperkalemia (high blood potassium), which in severe cases can lead to kidney failure, muscle paralysis, irregular heart rhythm, and cardiac arrest. You may be more likely to develop hyperkalemia during treatment with eplerenone if you are elderly, dehydrated, or have kidney disease, diabetes, or advanced heart failure. You should seek medical attention if you experience nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, tingling of the hands and feet, feelings of heaviness in the legs, a weak pulse, or a slow or irregular heartbeat, as these may be symptoms of hyperkalemia. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Do not take deflazacort with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of the active component of deflazacort. This may increase the risk and/or severity of side effects such as swelling, weight gain, electrolyte abnormalities, high blood pressure, high blood glucose, muscle weakness, depression, mood swings, acne, thinning skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, bone density loss, cataracts, glaucoma, menstrual irregularities, excessive growth of facial or body hair, and abnormal distribution of body fat, especially in the face, neck, back, and waist. Other side effects that may occur include decreased ability to fight infections, increased risk of developing infections, and inadequate response to stress such as infection, surgery, trauma, or a severe asthma attack. Children may experience a reduced growth rate during chronic use. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.