Uni-Medrol
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Manufacturer
Upjohn (a Pfizer company)
Country
USA (original developer), Global production
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| uni medrol 80 mg injection | ৳ 100.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Uni-Medrol 80 mg Injection contains methylprednisolone sodium succinate, a synthetic glucocorticoid. It is primarily used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects to treat a wide range of conditions, including allergic reactions, rheumatic disorders, respiratory diseases, and certain autoimmune conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage is highly individualized based on the condition being treated and patient response. Typically, 10 mg to 250 mg IV or IM once daily or in divided doses. For acute severe conditions (pulse therapy), doses up to 1000 mg/day may be used for a short period.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but caution should be exercised due to increased risk of side effects; lowest effective dose should be used.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is usually necessary for renal impairment.
How to Take
Uni-Medrol 80 mg Injection can be administered intravenously (IV) by direct injection or by infusion, or intramuscularly (IM). IV administration should be slow. The reconstituted solution must be used promptly.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus. This complex then modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators. It also suppresses immune cell function and proliferation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid (within minutes) for IV administration. Variable for IM, typically within hours.
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
Rapidly absorbed after intravenous (IV) administration. After intramuscular (IM) administration, methylprednisolone sodium succinate is rapidly converted to free methylprednisolone and absorbed.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose levels, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Diuretics (thiazide or loop)
May enhance potassium excretion and increase risk of hypokalemia.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels and effect.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels and effect.
Storage
Store the unreconstituted powder and diluent at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Store the reconstituted solution at room temperature and use within recommended time.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids is rare. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. No specific antidote exists. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Chronic overdose may lead to Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in nursing infants; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Administration of live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids
Drug Interactions
Antidiabetic agents
Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose levels, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Diuretics (thiazide or loop)
May enhance potassium excretion and increase risk of hypokalemia.
Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin)
May decrease methylprednisolone levels and effect.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May increase methylprednisolone levels and effect.
Storage
Store the unreconstituted powder and diluent at controlled room temperature (20°C to 25°C), protected from light. Do not freeze. Store the reconstituted solution at room temperature and use within recommended time.
Overdose
Acute overdose with corticosteroids is rare. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. No specific antidote exists. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Chronic overdose may lead to Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylprednisolone is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in nursing infants; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, as indicated on the packaging. Reconstituted solution has a limited shelf life (e.g., 48 hours) and should be used promptly.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (widely established)
Patent Status
Generic
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Methylprednisolone has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials across various indications. Ongoing research explores its role in new therapeutic areas and optimal dosing regimens.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- Serum electrolytes (especially potassium)
- Blood glucose levels
- Bone mineral density (with long-term use)
- Ophthalmic examinations (with long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual tapering to avoid adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients for signs of infection, hyperglycemia, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Consider bone protection strategies for long-term users.
- Educate patients on potential mood changes and psychiatric effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop the medication abruptly; it must be tapered gradually under medical supervision to avoid adrenal insufficiency.
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid contact with people who have infections (e.g., chickenpox, measles) as corticosteroids can increase susceptibility.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as remembered if it is part of a regular scheduled regimen, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose. Consult your physician for specific advice.
Driving Precautions
Methylprednisolone may cause dizziness, vertigo, or visual disturbances in some patients. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery if they experience these symptoms.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a low-sodium diet and ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to minimize fluid retention and bone loss.
- Regular physical activity, if appropriate, can help maintain bone health and muscle strength.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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