Methipred
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Manufacturer
Example: Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| methipred 8 mg tablet | ৳ 11.00 | ৳ 110.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is effective in treating a wide range of conditions including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely depending on the condition being treated. Typically ranges from 4 mg to 48 mg daily, administered in single or divided doses. Tapering of dose is crucial to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is usually required, but caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to side effects.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is typically required for renal impairment, but caution is advised in fluid retention cases.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It is often recommended to take with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone acts by binding to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates into the nucleus. This complex then modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins (e.g., lipocortins) and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes, cytokines). It also suppresses immune cell function and migration.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within hours of administration, but full therapeutic effect may take longer.
Excretion
Mainly excreted in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Biological half-life is 18-36 hours, plasma half-life is 2-3 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; peak plasma concentrations reached in 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via CYP3A4 enzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines when on immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetics (e.g., Insulin)
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Methylprednisolone may enhance or diminish the effect of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is required.
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Aspirin)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Phenobarbital, Rifampin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels and efficacy.
Potassium-depleting diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels and risk of side effects.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is generally not life-threatening but chronic overdose can lead to severe side effects such as Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal if chronic overdose suspected.
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; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live or live-attenuated vaccines when on immunosuppressive doses
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetics (e.g., Insulin)
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Methylprednisolone may enhance or diminish the effect of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is required.
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Aspirin)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Phenobarbital, Rifampin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels and efficacy.
Potassium-depleting diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels and risk of side effects.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is generally not life-threatening but chronic overdose can lead to severe side effects such as Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; gradual withdrawal if chronic overdose suspected.
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; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, refer to packaging for exact date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (widely available for decades)
Patent Status
Expired (generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its various indications over several decades. Current trials often focus on new formulations, specific patient populations, or comparative effectiveness.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels
- Electrolyte levels (especially potassium)
- Blood pressure
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Ophthalmologic exams (for long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Always emphasize gradual tapering of dose to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor blood glucose and blood pressure regularly in patients on long-term therapy.
- Consider bone protection (e.g., calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates) for patients at risk of osteoporosis with prolonged use.
- Educate patients on signs of infection and importance of reporting them promptly.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially mood changes, severe indigestion, or signs of infection.
- Avoid exposure to people who have chickenpox or measles if you have not had them or been vaccinated.
- 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. 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 generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or muscle weakness, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet to manage potential weight gain and blood sugar fluctuations.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises to help maintain bone density (if appropriate).
- Limit salt intake to reduce fluid retention.
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