Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Manufacturer
Drug International Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepcort 1 gm injection | ৳ 1,000.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort 1 gm Injection contains Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate, a synthetic corticosteroid. It is primarily used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties in various conditions such as severe allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, and to prevent organ rejection.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely depending on the condition being treated and patient response. For severe acute conditions (e.g., pulse therapy), 1 gram intravenously daily for 1-3 days may be administered. Lower doses for maintenance or less severe conditions.
Elderly
Administer with caution in elderly patients; lower initial doses may be appropriate due to increased susceptibility to side effects and potential for co-morbidities.
Renal_impairment
No routine dosage adjustment is generally required for patients with renal impairment, as methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized by the liver.
How to Take
Administer intravenously (IV) slowly over several minutes, or intramuscularly (IM). For pulse therapy (1 gm dose), IV infusion over 30-60 minutes is recommended.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates into the nucleus. This complex then modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins (e.g., lipocortin) and inhibition of inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes, cytokines). It also suppresses immune responses by reducing lymphocyte proliferation and activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is rapid, especially with IV administration, with anti-inflammatory effects observed within hours.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites, with a small amount of unchanged drug.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2 to 3 hours, but biological half-life is longer (18-36 hours).
Absorption
Methylprednisolone sodium succinate is rapidly and completely absorbed after intravenous (IV) administration, achieving peak plasma concentrations within minutes. Intramuscular (IM) administration also results in rapid absorption, with peak concentrations typically reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system into inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines when receiving immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Concomitant use with NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Anticoagulants
Corticosteroids may either potentiate or inhibit the effects of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is recommended.
CYP3A4 inducers
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital, phenytoin) may decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
CYP3A4 inhibitors
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir) may increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Potassium-depleting diuretics
Concomitant use may enhance potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines when receiving immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Concomitant use with NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Anticoagulants
Corticosteroids may either potentiate or inhibit the effects of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is recommended.
CYP3A4 inducers
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital, phenytoin) may decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
CYP3A4 inhibitors
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, ritonavir) may increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, potentially leading to increased side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Potassium-depleting diuretics
Concomitant use may enhance potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture when stored as recommended. Reconstituted solution should be used within a specified timeframe (e.g., 24-48 hours).
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across various indications for decades, demonstrating its efficacy and safety profile. Ongoing research explores new applications and optimal dosing strategies.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Serum electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Bone mineral density (for long-term therapy)
- Ophthalmic exams (for long-term therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering of dose to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients closely for signs of infection, especially atypical ones.
- Advise patients on dietary modifications (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) and exercise.
- Be aware of potential psychiatric side effects.
- Regularly assess blood pressure and glucose levels, especially in high-risk patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop this medicine abruptly; doses should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.
- Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or severe mood changes to your doctor.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections like chickenpox or measles if you are on high doses.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for advice. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
This medicine may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help maintain muscle strength and bone density.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
- Regularly monitor blood sugar if you have diabetes or are at risk.
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