Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Manufacturer
Eskayef 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 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort 4 mg Tablet contains Methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid used to treat a wide variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on the condition being treated, ranging from 4 mg to 48 mg daily. For 4 mg, it's often a starting or maintenance dose. Typically, 4-8 mg daily initially, adjusted based on response.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustments needed for elderly patients unless hepatic or renal impairment is present. Start with the lowest effective dose.
Renal_impairment
Methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized in the liver, so renal impairment usually does not require dose adjustment. However, use with caution.
How to Take
Take Mepcort 4 mg Tablet orally, usually once daily with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not stop abruptly; gradually reduce the dose as advised by your doctor.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, which then modulate gene expression to decrease the synthesis of inflammatory mediators and suppress immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within a few hours, but full therapeutic effect may take several days.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
The plasma half-life is approximately 2.5-3.5 hours, but the biological half-life is 18-36 hours due to sustained tissue effects.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzymes to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines when receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Oral Contraceptives
May increase corticosteroid effects.
Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Phenytoin, Rifampin, Barbiturates
May decrease corticosteroid effects by increasing metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include adrenal suppression, fluid retention, hypertension, and psychiatric disturbances. Treatment is supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug.
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 woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines when receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Oral Contraceptives
May increase corticosteroid effects.
Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Phenytoin, Rifampin, Barbiturates
May decrease corticosteroid effects by increasing metabolism.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include adrenal suppression, fluid retention, hypertension, and psychiatric disturbances. Treatment is supportive; gradual withdrawal of the drug.
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 woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, refer to packaging.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied and is well-established in clinical practice for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties across various indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetics)
- Electrolyte levels (potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone mineral density (long-term use)
- Ophthalmic exams (long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering to avoid adrenal crisis.
- Monitor blood pressure, glucose, and electrolytes regularly, especially during long-term therapy.
- Educate patients on potential mood changes and bone health measures.
- Consider prophylaxis for peptic ulcers in high-risk patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Report any unusual side effects or worsening of your condition.
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 may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some patients. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, especially with long-term use.
- Regular exercise, if appropriate for your condition, can help manage side effects like muscle weakness and weight gain.
- Avoid exposure to people with infections, especially chickenpox or measles, as your immune system may be suppressed.
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