Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate
Other Names
- Solu-Medrol
- Depo-Medrol
Drug Class
- Glucocorticoid
- Corticosteroid
Chemical Formula
C26H33NaO8
Molecular Weight
496.52 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Anti-inflammatory
- Immunosuppressant
Indications
- Allergic conditions
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Dermatologic diseases
- Endocrine disorders
- Gastrointestinal diseases
- Hematologic disorders
- Neoplastic diseases
- Renal diseases
- Respiratory diseases
Common Dosage Forms
- Injection
- Powder for injection
Typical Dosage
- 4-48 mg/day, depending on the condition
Pediatric Dosage
- Dose based on weight and condition, typically lower than adult dosages
Geriatric Dosage
- May require lower dosages due to decreased metabolism
Side Effects
- Fluid retention
- Hypertension
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Mood changes
- Muscle weakness
- Osteoporosis
- Peptic ulcers
- Skin changes
- Weight gain
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Hypersensitivity to the drug
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Use with caution while breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Aspirin
- Anticoagulants
- Vaccines
- Diuretics
- Insulin
Overdose Symptoms
- Bradycardia
- Hypertension
- Hyperglycemia
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, treat symptoms
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and complete when injected
- Distribution: Wide distribution in the body, crosses the blood-brain barrier
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine
Precautions
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Gradually reduce dosage when discontinuing prolonged use
Warnings
- May mask signs of infection
- Can cause adrenal suppression during long-term use
Others
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent adrenal insufficiency