Depo-Medrol
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Manufacturer
Pfizer (Original Brand)
Country
USA
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| depomed 40 mg injection | ৳ 75.25 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Methylprednisolone Acetate is a synthetic glucocorticoid with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including rheumatic disorders, allergic states, dermatological diseases, and certain autoimmune diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on condition and patient response. For IM use, common doses range from 40 mg to 120 mg, typically administered weekly or as prescribed by a physician.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly, but use with caution due to increased risk of side effects; start at the lower end of the dosage range.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment required; however, monitor fluid retention.
How to Take
Administered by intramuscular (IM) injection, intra-articular injection, intralesional injection, or soft tissue injection. Not for intravenous (IV) administration.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, leading to gene expression modulation. This results in decreased inflammation by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators, suppressing immune cell function, and reducing capillary permeability. It also has immunosuppressive effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects can begin within hours, but full therapeutic effect may take several days.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as metabolites.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is 2.5-3 hours; biological half-life is longer (18-36 hours).
Absorption
Slowly absorbed after intramuscular (IM) injection; peak plasma concentrations reached in 4-8 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the CYP3A4 enzyme.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Systemic fungal infections
- •Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- •Administration of live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Corticosteroids may potentiate or inhibit the effects of anticoagulants; monitor INR.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Concurrent use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital)
May decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially reducing efficacy.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C). Protect from freezing. Do not refrigerate. Protect from light.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare and usually does not lead to life-threatening situations. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features. Management is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date, check product specific expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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