Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepcort 500 mg injection | ৳ 600.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort 500 mg injection contains Methylprednisolone, a potent synthetic corticosteroid. It is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties in various medical conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on condition. For acute severe conditions (e.g., spinal cord injury, organ transplant rejection), 250 mg to 1000 mg IV daily or every 6 hours for a short period (e.g., 3-5 days). Lower doses may be used for other conditions.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment solely based on age; however, caution is advised due to increased risk of side effects and comorbidities. Dosage typically follows adult guidelines.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally required for renal impairment, as corticosteroids are primarily metabolized by the liver.
How to Take
Administered intravenously (IV) as a bolus over several minutes or as an infusion. Intramuscular (IM) administration is also possible but less common for high doses. The reconstituted solution should be used within a specified period.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus and modulates gene expression. This leads to inhibition of inflammatory mediators and suppression of immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, within minutes for IV effects.
Excretion
Excreted predominantly in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life is approximately 2-3 hours; biological half-life is 18-36 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after intravenous administration. Bioavailability is complete with IV.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, mainly by CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Corticosteroids may potentiate or inhibit the effect of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenobarbital, Rifampicin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels, reducing its efficacy.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, leading to increased effects and side effects.
Storage
Store intact vials at controlled room temperature (20-25°C), protect from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solution should be stored as per manufacturer's instructions.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, muscle weakness, and adrenal suppression. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gradual withdrawal is essential to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
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 woman. Infants exposed to corticosteroids via breast milk should be monitored for adverse effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Corticosteroids may potentiate or inhibit the effect of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Phenobarbital, Rifampicin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels, reducing its efficacy.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, leading to increased effects and side effects.
Storage
Store intact vials at controlled room temperature (20-25°C), protect from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solution should be stored as per manufacturer's instructions.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are rare. Chronic overdose can lead to Cushingoid features, muscle weakness, and adrenal suppression. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gradual withdrawal is essential to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
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 woman. Infants exposed to corticosteroids via breast milk should be monitored for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, check specific product labeling. Once reconstituted, use immediately or within 24-48 hours depending on product guidelines.
Availability
Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Generic (Off-patent)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied for various indications in numerous clinical trials, demonstrating efficacy in severe inflammatory, autoimmune, and immunosuppressive conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Blood glucose monitoring
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Bone density (for long-term therapy)
- Ophthalmologic exams (for long-term therapy)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual tapering of dose to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor blood glucose and electrolytes, especially with high doses or prolonged use.
- Be vigilant for signs of infection, particularly in immunosuppressed patients.
- Consider bone protection (e.g., calcium, vitamin D) for long-term therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
- Report any signs of infection, unusual swelling, or severe mood changes to your doctor.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections, especially chickenpox or measles, if on high doses.
- Follow a diet rich in potassium and calcium, and low in sodium, as advised by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
As this is an injection typically given by a healthcare professional in a hospital/clinic setting, a missed dose is unlikely. If a scheduled dose is missed, inform the doctor immediately to reschedule.
Driving Precautions
Methylprednisolone generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if side effects like dizziness, blurred vision, or significant mood changes occur, patients should avoid driving.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet to manage potential weight gain and blood sugar fluctuations.
- Engage in moderate exercise, if medically appropriate, to support bone and muscle health.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can irritate the stomach lining.
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