Solu-Medrol
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Manufacturer
Pfizer
Country
USA
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| solu medrol 1 gm injection | ৳ 2,810.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Methylprednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is administered as an injection for acute and severe conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose of 10-40 mg IV/IM, repeated as needed. For acute severe conditions, up to 30 mg/kg IV infused over 10-20 min, repeated every 4-6 hours for 48-72 hours. Dosing varies widely based on indication and patient response.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with comorbidities (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and potential for increased susceptibility to side effects. Lower starting doses may be considered.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for methylprednisolone sodium succinate in renal impairment, but monitor for fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances.
How to Take
Administer intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). For IV administration, infuse slowly (over at least 30 minutes for higher doses) to avoid adverse effects like bradycardia or cardiac arrest. Reconstitute lyophilized powder with sterile water for injection.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors, inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes), and suppressing various immune responses by affecting lymphocyte function and reducing cell migration to inflammatory sites.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, with effects typically observed within hours for IV administration.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites. A small portion is excreted unchanged.
Half life
Plasma half-life of methylprednisolone is approximately 2-4 hours; biological half-life is 18-36 hours, correlating with its duration of action.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed after IV/IM administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic, via CYP3A4-mediated hydroxylation, to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Vaccines
Live or live-attenuated vaccines are contraindicated during immunosuppressive corticosteroid therapy.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
May enhance or diminish anticoagulant effects; monitor INR closely.
Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
May significantly increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, requiring dose adjustment.
Anticholinesterases (e.g., neostigmine, pyridostigmine)
Concurrent use may exacerbate muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis patients.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, barbiturates)
May decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store intact vials at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solution stability varies by concentration and diluent; follow manufacturer's guidelines for storage and use.
Overdose
Acute overdose with methylprednisolone is rare. Symptoms of chronic overdose include Cushingoid features (e.g., moon face, buffalo hump), hypertension, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Management includes symptomatic and supportive care, with gradual withdrawal of the drug if chronic overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Corticosteroids cross the placenta. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution advised, and alternatives or temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding may be considered.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines during immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Vaccines
Live or live-attenuated vaccines are contraindicated during immunosuppressive corticosteroid therapy.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
May enhance or diminish anticoagulant effects; monitor INR closely.
Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics)
Increased risk of hypokalemia.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
May significantly increase methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, requiring dose adjustment.
Anticholinesterases (e.g., neostigmine, pyridostigmine)
Concurrent use may exacerbate muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis patients.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, barbiturates)
May decrease methylprednisolone plasma concentrations, reducing efficacy.
Storage
Store intact vials at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Reconstituted solution stability varies by concentration and diluent; follow manufacturer's guidelines for storage and use.
Overdose
Acute overdose with methylprednisolone is rare. Symptoms of chronic overdose include Cushingoid features (e.g., moon face, buffalo hump), hypertension, hyperglycemia, and fluid retention. Management includes symptomatic and supportive care, with gradual withdrawal of the drug if chronic overdose is suspected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Corticosteroids cross the placenta. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution advised, and alternatives or temporary discontinuation of breastfeeding may be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, as indicated on the package. Reconstituted solution should be used promptly (within 48 hours for Solu-Medrol, or as per manufacturer's instructions).
Availability
Hospitals, pharmacies
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of methylprednisolone across a broad range of inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions. Ongoing research continues to refine its use in specific patient populations and novel indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Electrolytes (especially potassium) - regularly, especially during high-dose therapy.
- Blood glucose - regularly, especially in diabetic or pre-diabetic patients.
- Blood pressure - regularly.
- Bone mineral density - for patients on long-term therapy.
- Ophthalmologic exams - for patients on long-term therapy (to monitor for cataracts/glaucoma).
- Growth monitoring - in pediatric patients on long-term therapy.
Doctor Notes
- Methylprednisolone 1 gm is typically reserved for acute, severe, life-threatening conditions or conditions requiring rapid immunosuppression.
- Always educate patients about the importance of not abruptly discontinuing therapy and the need for gradual tapering after prolonged use.
- Monitor for signs of infection, electrolyte imbalances (especially hypokalemia), hyperglycemia, and blood pressure changes regularly.
- Consider prophylactic measures for osteoporosis in patients on long-term therapy (e.g., calcium, vitamin D, bisphosphonates).
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially after prolonged use, due to the risk of adrenal crisis.
- Report any signs of infection (fever, sore throat, cough, localized pain) immediately, as your immune system may be suppressed.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly if you are diabetic or prone to hyperglycemia.
- Avoid exposure to individuals with chickenpox or measles if you are not immune, as these infections can be severe.
- Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking corticosteroids before any surgery or dental procedure.
- Limit sodium intake and increase potassium-rich foods to help manage fluid retention and electrolyte balance.
Missed Dose Advice
As Solu-Medrol 1 gm injection is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, missed doses are unlikely. If an scheduled administration is missed, contact the prescribing doctor or clinic immediately to reschedule.
Driving Precautions
Solu-Medrol may cause dizziness, visual disturbances, or mood changes in some patients. Patients should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet, preferably low in sodium and high in potassium and calcium, to counteract potential side effects.
- Engage in regular weight-bearing exercise (if medically appropriate) to help maintain bone density, especially during long-term therapy.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption during treatment, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
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