Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone 16 mg tablet
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepcort 16 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 200.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort 16 mg Tablet contains Methylprednisolone, a synthetic corticosteroid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is prescribed for a wide range of conditions including allergic reactions, inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on the condition being treated and patient response. Typically ranges from 4 mg to 48 mg per day, administered as a single dose or in divided doses. Long-term use requires gradual tapering.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required based solely on age, but caution should be exercised due to potential increased susceptibility to side effects.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is usually necessary for patients with renal impairment, as methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized by the liver.
How to Take
Take Mepcort tablet orally with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
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 and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators like cytokines, chemokines, and prostaglandins. This results in reduced inflammation and immunosuppression.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within hours, with peak effects often seen after 1-2 days of continuous therapy.
Excretion
Excreted mainly through the urine as metabolites, with a small amount of unchanged drug.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2.5-3.5 hours, but the biological half-life (duration of action) is considerably longer (18-36 hours) due to cellular binding.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 enzymes to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Methylprednisolone can alter the anticoagulant effect, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
May enhance potassium depletion, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
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 levels, reducing efficacy. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, leading to increased effects and side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with methylprednisolone is rare and usually does not lead to life-threatening situations. Long-term overdose or abuse can lead to severe side effects such as Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression, and electrolyte imbalances. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in 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 mother. Consult your doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Methylprednisolone can alter the anticoagulant effect, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)
May enhance potassium depletion, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
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 levels, reducing efficacy. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, leading to increased effects and side effects. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose with methylprednisolone is rare and usually does not lead to life-threatening situations. Long-term overdose or abuse can lead to severe side effects such as Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression, and electrolyte imbalances. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in 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 mother. Consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on storage conditions.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies globally
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, demonstrating its efficacy and safety profile over decades of use.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
- Electrolyte levels (particularly potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
- Ophthalmic examinations (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Always emphasize the importance of gradual tapering for long-term corticosteroid therapy.
- Educate patients about potential side effects, particularly increased infection risk and metabolic changes.
- Consider bone-protective therapy (e.g., calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates) for patients on prolonged corticosteroid use.
- Monitor blood pressure, glucose, and electrolytes regularly.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly, especially after long-term use, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for gradual dose reduction.
- Take Mepcort with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about any new symptoms or infections, as corticosteroids can mask signs of infection.
- Avoid close contact with people who have measles or chickenpox if you have not had these diseases or been vaccinated.
- Carry a steroid card if you are on long-term treatment.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Methylprednisolone 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 maintain muscle strength and bone density.
- Limit salt intake to reduce fluid retention and high blood pressure.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking as they can exacerbate some side effects.
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