Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepcort 4 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
| mepcort 8 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
| mepcort 16 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 200.00 |
| mepcort 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,000.00 | N/A |
| mepcort 500 mg injection | ৳ 600.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort is a corticosteroid used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including allergies, asthma, arthritis, skin conditions, and certain cancers. It works by decreasing the body's immune response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose varies from 4 mg to 48 mg daily, depending on the specific disease being treated. Maintenance dose is individualized.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment solely based on age; consider lower initial doses due to potential for decreased hepatic or renal function.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases.
How to Take
Oral tablets should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Injections are administered intravenously or intramuscularly by a healthcare professional.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone acts as a potent synthetic glucocorticoid, binding to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. This complex then translocates into the nucleus, modulating gene expression by either upregulating anti-inflammatory genes or downregulating pro-inflammatory genes. It suppresses migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reverses increased capillary permeability.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by condition, generally within hours for anti-inflammatory effects.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Biological half-life is 18-36 hours; plasma half-life is 2-3 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme system. Metabolites are generally inactive.
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
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels, requiring dose adjustment.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Macrolide antibiotics)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, hypertension. Management is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal if chronic overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; advise caution or consider alternative feeding during treatment.
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
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels, requiring dose adjustment.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Macrolide antibiotics)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, potentially leading to increased side effects.
Storage
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, hypertension. Management is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal if chronic overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; advise caution or consider alternative feeding during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
All pharmacies in Bangladesh
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of methylprednisolone across various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Ongoing research explores new indications and optimized dosing strategies.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone density (for long-term use)
- Ophthalmologic exams (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering of dosage to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
- Monitor blood pressure, glucose, and electrolytes regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions.
- Educate patients on potential side effects and signs of infection.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly, especially after long-term use, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Report any signs of infection, vision changes, or severe mood swings to your doctor.
- Take with food to minimize stomach upset.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Methylprednisolone generally does not impair driving ability. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or severe mood changes, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to support bone health.
- Avoid exposure to people with infections, especially chickenpox or measles, if you are on immunosuppressive doses.
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Global Brand Names
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