Mepcort
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Manufacturer
Healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| mepcort 8 mg tablet | ৳ 10.00 | ৳ 100.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Mepcort 8 mg Tablet contains Methylprednisolone, a potent corticosteroid. It is used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various conditions like allergic reactions, skin disorders, asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely based on the specific condition being treated. Typical initial doses range from 4 mg to 48 mg per day, given as a single dose or in divided doses. The dosage should be individualized and tapered slowly when discontinuing.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to side effects. The lowest effective dose should be used.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required for renal impairment, but careful monitoring for fluid and electrolyte balance is recommended.
How to Take
Take the tablet orally with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush or chew the tablet unless advised by a doctor. Follow the doctor's instructions regarding dose and duration.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone works by inhibiting the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. It also suppresses the immune system, thereby preventing immune cells from releasing inflammatory mediators.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects can begin within hours, but full therapeutic effects may take several days to develop, depending on the condition being treated.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as inactive metabolites. A small amount is excreted in the feces.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2.4 to 3.5 hours. The biological half-life, reflecting the duration of action, is 18 to 36 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are usually achieved within 1-2 hours after oral administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the tablet
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
May decrease the hypoglycemic effect of antidiabetics, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazide, Loop)
Enhanced potassium depletion.
Oral contraceptives or estrogens
May increase plasma concentrations and effects of methylprednisolone.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Effects may be either potentiated or diminished, requiring close INR monitoring.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir, Erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, potentially leading to increased side effects.
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 fluid retention, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalance. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the 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 tablet
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
May decrease the hypoglycemic effect of antidiabetics, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Diuretics (e.g., Thiazide, Loop)
Enhanced potassium depletion.
Oral contraceptives or estrogens
May increase plasma concentrations and effects of methylprednisolone.
Warfarin and other anticoagulants
Effects may be either potentiated or diminished, requiring close INR monitoring.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir, Erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels, potentially leading to increased side effects.
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 fluid retention, hypertension, and electrolyte imbalance. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the 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
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Refer to the packaging for the exact expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide, including FDA and DGDA.
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy in various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Ongoing research explores its role in new indications and optimized dosing strategies.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure and blood glucose levels
- Serum electrolyte levels (especially potassium) for patients on long-term therapy
- Bone mineral density (BMD) scans, particularly for prolonged use due to osteoporosis risk
- Ophthalmic examinations for patients on prolonged therapy to monitor for cataracts or glaucoma
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual tapering of the dose when discontinuing methylprednisolone to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
- Monitor patients closely for signs of infection, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and bone health, especially during prolonged therapy.
- Educate patients about common side effects, drug-food interactions, and necessary lifestyle modifications to minimize risks.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Mepcort suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms and adrenal crisis.
- Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, or any infections, before starting treatment.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
- If you are on long-term therapy, consider carrying a steroid alert card.
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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Mepcort generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or mood changes, avoid such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, especially during prolonged therapy.
- Limit salt intake to help manage fluid retention and high blood pressure, common side effects of corticosteroids.
- Avoid exposure to people with contagious diseases like chickenpox or measles, as your immune system may be suppressed.
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