Methsolon
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| methsolon 4 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Methylprednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is effective in treating a wide range of conditions including allergic disorders, inflammatory diseases, and autoimmune conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose ranges from 4 mg to 48 mg daily, depending on the specific disease being treated. Dosage should be individualized based on the patient's response and tolerance. Should be taken once daily or in divided doses.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for the elderly, but caution is advised due to potential increased susceptibility to adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required in patients with renal impairment, as methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized in the liver.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush or chew the tablet unless specifically instructed.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone acts by binding to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, which then translocate to the nucleus and modulate gene expression. This leads to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and immune responses.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within hours of oral administration.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2.5-3.5 hours, but the biological half-life (duration of action) is much longer, typically 18-36 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are usually reached within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system into inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Methylprednisolone may either potentiate or inhibit the effects of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is advised.
Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics)
May enhance the potassium-depleting effects of corticosteroids, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Concurrent use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May decrease methylprednisolone metabolism, increasing its plasma concentration and potential for adverse effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital, phenytoin)
May increase methylprednisolone metabolism, decreasing its plasma concentration and therapeutic efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose of methylprednisolone is rare. Symptoms may include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, and hyperglycemia. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
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
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Methylprednisolone may either potentiate or inhibit the effects of anticoagulants; close monitoring of INR is advised.
Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics)
May enhance the potassium-depleting effects of corticosteroids, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Concurrent use may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May decrease methylprednisolone metabolism, increasing its plasma concentration and potential for adverse effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital, phenytoin)
May increase methylprednisolone metabolism, decreasing its plasma concentration and therapeutic efficacy.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose of methylprednisolone is rare. Symptoms may include Cushingoid features, electrolyte imbalance, and hyperglycemia. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
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 2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone is a well-established drug with extensive clinical trial data supporting its efficacy across numerous indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and optimal dosing strategies.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum electrolytes (especially potassium)
- Blood glucose levels
- Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
- Ophthalmic examinations (for long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
Doctor Notes
- Crucial to counsel patients on the importance of not discontinuing therapy abruptly to avoid adrenal crisis.
- Monitor for signs of infection, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention.
- Consider calcium and vitamin D supplementation for patients on long-term therapy to mitigate osteoporosis risk.
- Regular ophthalmic examinations are recommended for patients on prolonged high-dose therapy.
- Individualize dose and duration based on disease severity and patient response, always aiming for the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, especially after long-term use, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will advise on how to gradually reduce the dose.
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Report any unusual side effects or worsening of your condition to your doctor.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections like chickenpox or measles, as your immunity may be lowered.
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 to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Methylprednisolone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a low-sodium diet to help manage fluid retention.
- Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, potentially through supplements, to protect bone health during long-term therapy.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to maintain muscle strength and bone density.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Consider wearing a medical alert tag if on long-term steroid therapy.
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