Methylprednisolone Acetate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Other Names
- Depo-Medrol
- Medrone
- M-Prednisol
Drug Class
- Corticosteroid
Chemical Formula
C24H32O6
Molecular Weight
416.52 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Methylprednisolone acetate exerts anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators and suppressing immune responses.
Indications
- Inflammatory conditions
- Allergic reactions
- Autoimmune diseases
- Cancer supportive care
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- 4-160 mg intramuscularly or intra-articularly, depending on the condition being treated
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosing based on weight and condition, to be determined by a healthcare provider
Geriatric Dosage
- May require lower doses due to age-related changes in metabolism
Side Effects
- Increased risk of infections
- Increased blood sugar levels
- Fluid retention
- Mood changes
- Elevated blood pressure
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Live vaccines
- Known allergy to corticosteroids
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Excreted into breast milk, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- NSAIDs
- Anticoagulants
- Diuretics
- Insulin
Overdose Symptoms
- Severe headache
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Seizures
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care and symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after injection
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body, including crossing the blood-brain barrier
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of infection
- Gradual tapering of dose is recommended to avoid adrenal insufficiency
Warnings
- Long-term use can lead to adrenal suppression
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation
Others
- Special care should be taken when administering to patients with diabetes, hypertension, or osteoporosis.