Methylprednisolone

Information about Methylprednisolone

Methylprednisolone suleptanate

Sandoz.Methylprednisolone.4mg

Medrol, 32 mG methylprednisolone tablets by Pfizer which are made in Romania

Methylprednisolone is a synthetic, intermediate-acting glucocorticoid that is widely used in the treatment of severe inflammation, autoimmune conditions, hypersensitivity reactions, and organ rejection. Its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties make it a valuable drug in the management of these conditions.

Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action

Methylprednisolone, like other glucocorticoids, works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in various types of cells, modulating gene expression and thus protein synthesis. It also interferes with various leukocyte inflammatory pathways, inhibiting leukocyte infiltration at the site of inflammation, interference in the function of mediators of inflammatory response, and suppression of humoral immune responses.

Dosage and Formulation

Methylprednisolone is available in multiple forms. The oral form is available in tablets of 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 mg, both generically and under the brand name of Medrol, and in Medrol Dosepaks, which contain 21 tablets of 4 mg each. Injectable forms of methylprednisolone are also available generically and under the brand names of Solu-Medrol and Depo-Medrol.

The potency of methylprednisolone is approximately five times greater than that of cortisol, a natural hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Because of this, the dosage used can vary significantly, with 4 mg daily being considered a physiological dose in adults. Notably, methylprednisolone has minimal mineralocorticoid activity, which refers to the effect on electrolyte and water balance.

Indications and Usage

Methylprednisolone is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects in the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Severe inflammatory conditions: These can include chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Autoimmune conditions: Conditions such as lupus and multiple sclerosis, where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues, can be managed with methylprednisolone.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Allergic reactions and other hypersensitivity responses can be treated with methylprednisolone.
• Organ rejection: Following organ transplantation, methylprednisolone can be used to suppress the immune response and prevent the body from rejecting the transplanted organ.

Side Effects and Warnings

As with all medications, methylprednisolone use can be associated with adverse effects. These can include weight gain, fluid retention, high blood pressure, mood changes, increased blood sugar levels, and increased risk of infections due to its immunosuppressive effects. Long-term use can also lead to conditions such as osteoporosis.

References

• Dailymed label info on Methylprednisolone
• FDA Methylprednisolone