Conclusions Examining individual studies it appears that DFZ improves strength and functional outcomes compared to placebo , but it remains unclear if it has a benefit over prednisone on similar outcomes .
Two trials found that DFZ causes less weight gain than prednisone
Background To complete a systematic review and meta- analysis based on the clinical question : Is Deflazacort ( DFZ ) , a prednisolone derivative , an effective therapy for improving strength , with acceptable side effects , in children with Duchenne Dystrophy ( DD ) ?
Duchenne dystrophy
Prednisone has been shown to improve strength in Duchenne dystrophy .  Azathioprine often benefits corticosteroid-responsive diseases and can reduce the dose of prednisone needed . The present study reports a r and omized , controlled trial of prednisone and azathioprine design ed to assess the longer-term effects of prednisone and to determine whether azathioprine alone , or in combination with prednisone , improves strength .  Ninety-nine boys ( aged five to 15 years ) with Duchenne dystrophy were r and omized to one of three groups : ( I ) placebo ; ( II ) prednisone 0.3 mg/kg/d ; or ( III ) prednisone 0.75 mg/kg/d . After 6 months , azathioprine 2 to 2.5 mg/kg/d was added in groups I and II and placebo added in group III . The study showed that the beneficial effect of prednisone ( 0.75 mg/kg/d ) is maintained for at least 18 months and is associated with a 36 % increase in muscle mass . There was weight gain , growth retardation , and other side effects .  Azathioprine did not have a beneficial effect . This study suggests that prednisone 's beneficial effect is not due to immunosuppression
Conclusions Examining individual studies it appears that DFZ improves strength and functional outcomes compared to placebo , but it remains unclear if it has a benefit over prednisone on similar outcomes .
Two trials found that DFZ causes less weight gain than prednisone
Background To complete a systematic review and meta- analysis based on the clinical question : Is Deflazacort ( DFZ ) , a prednisolone derivative , an effective therapy for improving strength , with acceptable side effects , in children with Duchenne Dystrophy ( DD ) ?