Medicine Information

Methipred

Name: Methipred
Brand: Methipred

Tablet16 mgCorticosteroids, SystemicATC: H02AB04

Generic Name

Methylprednisolone

Manufacturer

Acme Laboratories Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
methipred 16 mg tablet	৳ 20.06	৳ 200.60

Description

Overview of the medicine

Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.

Uses & Indications

Endocrine disorders (e.g., primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency)

Rheumatic disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus)

Allergic states (e.g., severe asthma, allergic rhinitis, serum sickness)

Dermatologic diseases (e.g., pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme)

Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)

Respiratory diseases (e.g., symptomatic sarcoidosis, aspiration pneumonitis)

Hematologic disorders (e.g., acquired hemolytic anemia, pure red cell aplasia)

Neoplastic diseases (palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas)

Nervous system disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis exacerbations)

Renal diseases (e.g., nephrotic syndrome)

Dosage

Adults

Dosage varies widely depending on the disease and patient response, usually 4-48 mg daily, taken as a single dose or in divided doses. For acute conditions, higher doses may be used initially, followed by gradual tapering.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution should be exercised due to potential comorbidities and increased susceptibility to side effects.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment is typically needed for renal impairment, as methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized by the liver.

How to Take

Take Methipred tablet orally, usually once daily or in divided doses, with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly, especially after long-term use, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully for tapering the dose.

Mechanism of Action

Methylprednisolone binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, forming a steroid-receptor complex. This complex then translocates into the nucleus, where it modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and inhibition of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and leukotrienes. It also suppresses immune cell function and proliferation.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within hours to a day.

Excretion

Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites.

Half life

Plasma half-life is approximately 2-3 hours; biological half-life is 18-36 hours.

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1-2 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver by the CYP3A4 enzyme system. Metabolites are mostly inactive.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy

Drug Interactions

Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)

Increased risk of hypokalemia.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Effects of anticoagulants may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)

May increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations.

Antidiabetic agents (e.g., Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics)

Methylprednisolone can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.

CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin, Barbiturates)

May decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Acute overdose with methylprednisolone is rare and usually not life-threatening. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and electrolyte imbalance. Management is supportive and symptomatic; no specific antidote exists. Long-term high doses can lead to Cushingoid features.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother. Consult a doctor.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during corticosteroid therapy

Drug Interactions

Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)

Increased risk of hypokalemia.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Effects of anticoagulants may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)

May increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations.

Antidiabetic agents (e.g., Insulin, Oral Hypoglycemics)

Methylprednisolone can increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication dosage.

CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin, Barbiturates)

May decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Pregnancy & Lactation

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, as indicated on the packaging.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Methylprednisolone is a well-established drug with extensive clinical trial data supporting its efficacy and safety across various indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and refine existing treatment protocols.

Lab Monitoring

Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
Electrolyte levels (particularly potassium)
Blood pressure monitoring
Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
Ophthalmologic examination (for long-term use, to check for cataracts/glaucoma)
Adrenal function tests (after withdrawal)

Doctor Notes

Always emphasize the importance of gradual tapering to prevent adrenal crisis.
Monitor for signs of infection, especially in immunocompromised patients.
Consider calcium and Vitamin D supplementation for patients on long-term therapy to mitigate osteoporosis risk.
Educate patients on potential side effects and when to seek medical attention.

Patient Guidelines

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Report any unusual side effects or worsening of your condition to your doctor immediately.
Avoid exposure to infections and inform your doctor if you develop signs of infection.
Carry a steroid card if you are on long-term therapy.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Methipred generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or any other side effects that impair your concentration, avoid these activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D to support bone health.
Engage in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your doctor.
Avoid consuming excessive salt to help manage fluid retention and blood pressure.
Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking.