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Methotrax
Methotrexate
Methotrax
Methotrexate
Indications
Vasculitis
Indication detailsView
Neoplastic Diseases: Methotrexate is indicated in the treatment of gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens and hydatidiform mole. Methotrexate is used in maintenance therapy in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Methotrexate is used alone or in combination with other anticancer agents in the treatment of breast cancer, epidermoid cancers of the head and neck, advanced mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T cell lymphoma), and lung cancer, particularly squamous cell and small cell types. Methotrexate is also used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of advanced stage non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Therapeutic classView
Antidote preparations, Immunosuppressant
PharmacologyView
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolic acid reductase. Dihydrofolates must be reduced to tetrahydrofolates by this enzyme before they can be utilized as carriers of one-carbon groups in the synthesis of p.r.n. nucleotides and thymidylate. Therefore, methotrexate interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells, bone marrow, fetal cells, buccal and intestinal mucosa, and cells of the urinary bladder are in general more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate. When cellular proliferation in malignant tissues is greater than in most normal tissues, methotrexate may impair malignant growth without irreversible damage to normal tissues
DosageView
Oral-
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days, repeat after an interval of ≥1 wk for 3-5 courses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Burkitt's lymphoma: 10-25 mg daily for 4-8 days, repeated after 7-10 days.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose, adjust subsequent doses based on response.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 7.5 mg once wkly, adjust by response. Not more than 20 mg/wk.
- Mycosis fungoides: 2.5-10 mg daily to induce remission.
- Crohn's disease: 12.5-22.5 mg once wkly for up to 1 yr.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose. Adjust subsequent doses based on response. May be given via IV/IM admin.
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days. Repeat after at least 1 wk for 3-5 courses. Alternatively, 0.25-1 mg/kg (max: 60 mg) every 48 hr for 4 doses followed by folinic acid rescue, repeat at intervals of 7 days for 4 or more courses.
- Mycosis fungoides: 50 mg wkly as a single dose or 2 divided doses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Crohn's disease: 25 mg once wkly for 16 wk. Maintenance: 15 mg wkly.
- Meningeal leukaemia: 12 mg/m2 (max 15 mg) once wkly for 2-3 wk, then once mthly. Alternatively, 200-500 mcg/kg every 2-5 day until CSF cell count is normalised.
- Osteosarcoma: Initial recommended dose: 12 g/m2 as a 4-hr infusion, followed by folinic acid, as part of combined therapy. May increase dose to 15 g/m2 in subsequent treatments if initial dosage is insufficient to achieve peak serum methotrexate levels of 454 mcg/mL at the end of the infusion. Methotrexate infusion is administered on postoperative wk 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16, 29, 30, 44 and 45; in combination with other chemotherapy agents. Folinic acid can be given orally, IM or IV inj starting 24 hr after the beginning of the methotrexate infusion. Give via parenteral routes If patient experiences GI toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting). Usual dosage of folinic acid: 15 mg every 6 hr for a total of 60 hr or a total of 10 doses.
- Breast cancer: 10-60 mg/m2 often with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.
- Advanced lymphosarcoma: Up to 30 mg/kg, followed by folinic acid rescue.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 2.5 mg/kg every 14 days.
AdministrationView
Should be taken on an empty stomach. Best taken on an empty stomach. May be taken with meals to reduce GI discomfort. Avoid taking with milk-rich products.
Side effectsView
Ulceration of the mouth and GI disturbances (e.g. stomatitis and diarrhoea), bone marrow depression, hepatotoxicity, renal failure, skin reactions, alopecia, ocular irritation, arachnoiditis in intrathecal use, megaloblastic anaemia, osteoporosis, precipitation of diabetes, arthralgias, necrosis of soft tissue and bone, anaphylaxis, impaired fertility.
ContraindicationsView
Severe renal or hepatic impairment, pre-existing profound bone marrow suppression in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholic liver disease, AIDS, pre-existing blood dyscrasias, pregnancy (in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis), breast-feeding.
PrecautionsView
Hepatic or renal impairment, bone marrow depression, elderly, neonates. Ulcerative disorders of the GI tract. Monitor haematological, renal and hepatic function, and GI toxicity regularly.
InteractionsView
Decreased effectiveness with folic acid and its derivatives.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category X. Studies in animals or human beings have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or there is evidence of fetal risk based on human experience or both, and the risk of the use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit. The drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.
Overdose effectsView
Nausea, vomiting, alopecia, melena, and renal failure.
ReconstitutionView
Intramuscular: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
StorageView
Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Methotrax
Methotrexate
Methotrax
Methotrexate
Indications
Vasculitis
Indication detailsView
Neoplastic Diseases: Methotrexate is indicated in the treatment of gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens and hydatidiform mole. Methotrexate is used in maintenance therapy in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Methotrexate is used alone or in combination with other anticancer agents in the treatment of breast cancer, epidermoid cancers of the head and neck, advanced mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T cell lymphoma), and lung cancer, particularly squamous cell and small cell types. Methotrexate is also used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of advanced stage non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Therapeutic classView
Antidote preparations, Immunosuppressant
PharmacologyView
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolic acid reductase. Dihydrofolates must be reduced to tetrahydrofolates by this enzyme before they can be utilized as carriers of one-carbon groups in the synthesis of p.r.n. nucleotides and thymidylate. Therefore, methotrexate interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells, bone marrow, fetal cells, buccal and intestinal mucosa, and cells of the urinary bladder are in general more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate. When cellular proliferation in malignant tissues is greater than in most normal tissues, methotrexate may impair malignant growth without irreversible damage to normal tissues
DosageView
Oral-
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days, repeat after an interval of ≥1 wk for 3-5 courses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Burkitt's lymphoma: 10-25 mg daily for 4-8 days, repeated after 7-10 days.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose, adjust subsequent doses based on response.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 7.5 mg once wkly, adjust by response. Not more than 20 mg/wk.
- Mycosis fungoides: 2.5-10 mg daily to induce remission.
- Crohn's disease: 12.5-22.5 mg once wkly for up to 1 yr.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose. Adjust subsequent doses based on response. May be given via IV/IM admin.
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days. Repeat after at least 1 wk for 3-5 courses. Alternatively, 0.25-1 mg/kg (max: 60 mg) every 48 hr for 4 doses followed by folinic acid rescue, repeat at intervals of 7 days for 4 or more courses.
- Mycosis fungoides: 50 mg wkly as a single dose or 2 divided doses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Crohn's disease: 25 mg once wkly for 16 wk. Maintenance: 15 mg wkly.
- Meningeal leukaemia: 12 mg/m2 (max 15 mg) once wkly for 2-3 wk, then once mthly. Alternatively, 200-500 mcg/kg every 2-5 day until CSF cell count is normalised.
- Osteosarcoma: Initial recommended dose: 12 g/m2 as a 4-hr infusion, followed by folinic acid, as part of combined therapy. May increase dose to 15 g/m2 in subsequent treatments if initial dosage is insufficient to achieve peak serum methotrexate levels of 454 mcg/mL at the end of the infusion. Methotrexate infusion is administered on postoperative wk 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16, 29, 30, 44 and 45; in combination with other chemotherapy agents. Folinic acid can be given orally, IM or IV inj starting 24 hr after the beginning of the methotrexate infusion. Give via parenteral routes If patient experiences GI toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting). Usual dosage of folinic acid: 15 mg every 6 hr for a total of 60 hr or a total of 10 doses.
- Breast cancer: 10-60 mg/m2 often with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.
- Advanced lymphosarcoma: Up to 30 mg/kg, followed by folinic acid rescue.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 2.5 mg/kg every 14 days.
AdministrationView
Should be taken on an empty stomach. Best taken on an empty stomach. May be taken with meals to reduce GI discomfort. Avoid taking with milk-rich products.
Side effectsView
Ulceration of the mouth and GI disturbances (e.g. stomatitis and diarrhoea), bone marrow depression, hepatotoxicity, renal failure, skin reactions, alopecia, ocular irritation, arachnoiditis in intrathecal use, megaloblastic anaemia, osteoporosis, precipitation of diabetes, arthralgias, necrosis of soft tissue and bone, anaphylaxis, impaired fertility.
ContraindicationsView
Severe renal or hepatic impairment, pre-existing profound bone marrow suppression in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholic liver disease, AIDS, pre-existing blood dyscrasias, pregnancy (in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis), breast-feeding.
PrecautionsView
Hepatic or renal impairment, bone marrow depression, elderly, neonates. Ulcerative disorders of the GI tract. Monitor haematological, renal and hepatic function, and GI toxicity regularly.
InteractionsView
Decreased effectiveness with folic acid and its derivatives.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category X. Studies in animals or human beings have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or there is evidence of fetal risk based on human experience or both, and the risk of the use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit. The drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.
Overdose effectsView
Nausea, vomiting, alopecia, melena, and renal failure.
ReconstitutionView
Intramuscular: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
StorageView
Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Methovate-N
Betamethasone + Neomycin Sulphate (Topical)
Methovate-N
Betamethasone + Neomycin Sulphate (Topical)
Indications
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Indication detailsView
This cream is usually useful for the treatment of superficial infections caused by gram-positive and gramnegative microorganisms. It is also useful in burns, regeneration of new skin in wounds and ulceration, otitis externa, postoperative infections, neuro-dermatitis and eczema. It may be used as an adjunct to systemic steroid therapy in special kind of pyoderma.
Therapeutic classView
Aural steroid & antibiotic combined preparations
PharmacologyView
Betamethasone is an active topical corticosteroid, which produces a rapid response in the inflammatory dermatoses and cures psoriasis types of skin diseases. Neomycin Sulfate is a topical broad-spectrum bactericidal amino-glycoside effective against various kinds of gram-positive and gramnegative pathogens such as Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus etc. This preparation has effective penetration and uniform distribution capacity, so it is very effective in hairy and intertriginous places. This preparation is very effective for the treatment of wet ulceration of the skin.
DosageView
Use in adults: This preparation should be applied to the affected parts of the skin as a thin layer for 3 to 4 times daily. In chronic conditions, withdrawal of treatment is carried out by decreasing the frequency of application until the cream is applied as infrequently as once a week. Or as directed by the physician.
Use in children: Do not use it on children under 1 year of age. A course of treatment for a child should not normally last more than 5 days unless otherwise stated by your physician.
Use in children: Do not use it on children under 1 year of age. A course of treatment for a child should not normally last more than 5 days unless otherwise stated by your physician.
Side effectsView
This preparation is well tolerated. But prolonged and high doses may cause Cushing's syndrome, acne, thinning and dilatation of blood vessels, particularly when occlusive dressings are used.
ContraindicationsView
This preparation is contraindicated to the patients who are hypersensitive to any of its components. It should not be used for the treatment of otitis externa when the eardrum is perforated. It is contraindicated in skin lesions caused by infection with viruses and fungi.
PrecautionsView
Long term continuous topical therapy of this preparation should be avoided, which may produce many resistant micro organisms. So, accurate dose of this preparation should be used in infected areas only.
InteractionsView
There are no significant drug interactions reported with Betamethasone Valerate BP and Neomycin Sulphate BP Cream/Ointment.
Pregnancy & lactationView
This preparation should not be used extensively in pregnancy.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Methovate-N
Betamethasone + Neomycin Sulphate (Topical)
Methovate-N
Betamethasone + Neomycin Sulphate (Topical)
Indications
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Indication detailsView
This cream is usually useful for the treatment of superficial infections caused by gram-positive and gramnegative microorganisms. It is also useful in burns, regeneration of new skin in wounds and ulceration, otitis externa, postoperative infections, neuro-dermatitis and eczema. It may be used as an adjunct to systemic steroid therapy in special kind of pyoderma.
Therapeutic classView
Aural steroid & antibiotic combined preparations
PharmacologyView
Betamethasone is an active topical corticosteroid, which produces a rapid response in the inflammatory dermatoses and cures psoriasis types of skin diseases. Neomycin Sulfate is a topical broad-spectrum bactericidal amino-glycoside effective against various kinds of gram-positive and gramnegative pathogens such as Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus etc. This preparation has effective penetration and uniform distribution capacity, so it is very effective in hairy and intertriginous places. This preparation is very effective for the treatment of wet ulceration of the skin.
DosageView
Use in adults: This preparation should be applied to the affected parts of the skin as a thin layer for 3 to 4 times daily. In chronic conditions, withdrawal of treatment is carried out by decreasing the frequency of application until the cream is applied as infrequently as once a week. Or as directed by the physician.
Use in children: Do not use it on children under 1 year of age. A course of treatment for a child should not normally last more than 5 days unless otherwise stated by your physician.
Use in children: Do not use it on children under 1 year of age. A course of treatment for a child should not normally last more than 5 days unless otherwise stated by your physician.
Side effectsView
This preparation is well tolerated. But prolonged and high doses may cause Cushing's syndrome, acne, thinning and dilatation of blood vessels, particularly when occlusive dressings are used.
ContraindicationsView
This preparation is contraindicated to the patients who are hypersensitive to any of its components. It should not be used for the treatment of otitis externa when the eardrum is perforated. It is contraindicated in skin lesions caused by infection with viruses and fungi.
PrecautionsView
Long term continuous topical therapy of this preparation should be avoided, which may produce many resistant micro organisms. So, accurate dose of this preparation should be used in infected areas only.
InteractionsView
There are no significant drug interactions reported with Betamethasone Valerate BP and Neomycin Sulphate BP Cream/Ointment.
Pregnancy & lactationView
This preparation should not be used extensively in pregnancy.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Methovate-R
Betamethasone + Phenylephrine + Lignocaine
Methovate-R
Betamethasone + Phenylephrine + Lignocaine
Indications
Piles
Indication detailsView
Local anorectal conditions like haemorrhoids and fissures where, there is inflammation & pain.
Therapeutic classView
4-Quinolone preparations, Phlebotonic & Vascular protecting preparation
PharmacologyView
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid with mainly glucocorticoid activity. It induces phospholipase A2 inhibitory lipase (lipocortins) and sequentially inhibits the release of arachidonic acid, thereby depressing the formation, release, and activity of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and other inflammatory mediators.
Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic with mainly direct effects on alpha-adrenergic receptors and weak beta-adrenergic activity. It causes vasoconstriction of the arterioles of the nasal mucosa and conjunctiva; activates the dilator muscle of the pupil to cause contraction; produces vasoconstriction of arterioles in the body and produces systemic arterial vasoconstriction.
Lidocaine alters signal conduction in neurons by blocking the fast voltage-gated Na+ channels in the neuronal cell membrane responsible for signal propagation. With sufficient blockage, the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron will not depolarize and will thus fail to transmit an action potential.
Phenylephrine is a sympathomimetic with mainly direct effects on alpha-adrenergic receptors and weak beta-adrenergic activity. It causes vasoconstriction of the arterioles of the nasal mucosa and conjunctiva; activates the dilator muscle of the pupil to cause contraction; produces vasoconstriction of arterioles in the body and produces systemic arterial vasoconstriction.
Lidocaine alters signal conduction in neurons by blocking the fast voltage-gated Na+ channels in the neuronal cell membrane responsible for signal propagation. With sufficient blockage, the membrane of the postsynaptic neuron will not depolarize and will thus fail to transmit an action potential.
DosageView
Apply locally 2 or 3 times daily initially, using the applicator if internal administration is required, When inflammation is subsiding once-daily application is sufficient in most cases,
Side effectsView
As with all topical corticosteroids, its use for prolonged periods, may cause systemic absorption, specially in children. Prolonged and intensive treatment with active corticosteroid preparations may also cause local atrophic changes in the skin. There are reports of pigmentation changes and hypertrichosis with topical steroids, and in this situation it should be discontinued. Some patients may experience burning upon application, specially if the mucous membrane is not intact.
ContraindicationsView
Topical corticosteroids are contraindicated in: Primarily infected skin lesions caused by viral infections e.g herpes simplex, vaccinia or varicella (chicken pox), by bacteria e.g impetigo, by fungal infections e.g candidiasis, tineasis or by tuberculous infection of the anal region; Sensitivity to any of the components of the product; Dermatoses in children under 1 year of age.
PrecautionsView
Long-term continuous treatment should be avoided. Discontinue if sensitization occurs.
InteractionsView
Not known
Pregnancy & lactationView
The safe use of topical corticosteroids in human pregnancy has not been fully established. Topical administration of corticosteroids to pregnant animals can cause abnormalities of fetal development including cleft palate and intrauterine growth retardation.
Therefore, there may be a very small risk of such effects in the human fetus. So, it should not be used unnecessarily in large amounts or for prolonged period.
Therefore, there may be a very small risk of such effects in the human fetus. So, it should not be used unnecessarily in large amounts or for prolonged period.
Methox
Methotrexate
Methox
Methotrexate
Indications
Vasculitis
Indication detailsView
Neoplastic Diseases: Methotrexate is indicated in the treatment of gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens and hydatidiform mole. Methotrexate is used in maintenance therapy in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Methotrexate is used alone or in combination with other anticancer agents in the treatment of breast cancer, epidermoid cancers of the head and neck, advanced mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T cell lymphoma), and lung cancer, particularly squamous cell and small cell types. Methotrexate is also used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of advanced stage non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Therapeutic classView
Antidote preparations, Immunosuppressant
PharmacologyView
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolic acid reductase. Dihydrofolates must be reduced to tetrahydrofolates by this enzyme before they can be utilized as carriers of one-carbon groups in the synthesis of p.r.n. nucleotides and thymidylate. Therefore, methotrexate interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells, bone marrow, fetal cells, buccal and intestinal mucosa, and cells of the urinary bladder are in general more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate. When cellular proliferation in malignant tissues is greater than in most normal tissues, methotrexate may impair malignant growth without irreversible damage to normal tissues
DosageView
Oral-
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days, repeat after an interval of ≥1 wk for 3-5 courses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Burkitt's lymphoma: 10-25 mg daily for 4-8 days, repeated after 7-10 days.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose, adjust subsequent doses based on response.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 7.5 mg once wkly, adjust by response. Not more than 20 mg/wk.
- Mycosis fungoides: 2.5-10 mg daily to induce remission.
- Crohn's disease: 12.5-22.5 mg once wkly for up to 1 yr.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose. Adjust subsequent doses based on response. May be given via IV/IM admin.
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days. Repeat after at least 1 wk for 3-5 courses. Alternatively, 0.25-1 mg/kg (max: 60 mg) every 48 hr for 4 doses followed by folinic acid rescue, repeat at intervals of 7 days for 4 or more courses.
- Mycosis fungoides: 50 mg wkly as a single dose or 2 divided doses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Crohn's disease: 25 mg once wkly for 16 wk. Maintenance: 15 mg wkly.
- Meningeal leukaemia: 12 mg/m2 (max 15 mg) once wkly for 2-3 wk, then once mthly. Alternatively, 200-500 mcg/kg every 2-5 day until CSF cell count is normalised.
- Osteosarcoma: Initial recommended dose: 12 g/m2 as a 4-hr infusion, followed by folinic acid, as part of combined therapy. May increase dose to 15 g/m2 in subsequent treatments if initial dosage is insufficient to achieve peak serum methotrexate levels of 454 mcg/mL at the end of the infusion. Methotrexate infusion is administered on postoperative wk 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16, 29, 30, 44 and 45; in combination with other chemotherapy agents. Folinic acid can be given orally, IM or IV inj starting 24 hr after the beginning of the methotrexate infusion. Give via parenteral routes If patient experiences GI toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting). Usual dosage of folinic acid: 15 mg every 6 hr for a total of 60 hr or a total of 10 doses.
- Breast cancer: 10-60 mg/m2 often with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.
- Advanced lymphosarcoma: Up to 30 mg/kg, followed by folinic acid rescue.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 2.5 mg/kg every 14 days.
AdministrationView
Should be taken on an empty stomach. Best taken on an empty stomach. May be taken with meals to reduce GI discomfort. Avoid taking with milk-rich products.
Side effectsView
Ulceration of the mouth and GI disturbances (e.g. stomatitis and diarrhoea), bone marrow depression, hepatotoxicity, renal failure, skin reactions, alopecia, ocular irritation, arachnoiditis in intrathecal use, megaloblastic anaemia, osteoporosis, precipitation of diabetes, arthralgias, necrosis of soft tissue and bone, anaphylaxis, impaired fertility.
ContraindicationsView
Severe renal or hepatic impairment, pre-existing profound bone marrow suppression in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholic liver disease, AIDS, pre-existing blood dyscrasias, pregnancy (in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis), breast-feeding.
PrecautionsView
Hepatic or renal impairment, bone marrow depression, elderly, neonates. Ulcerative disorders of the GI tract. Monitor haematological, renal and hepatic function, and GI toxicity regularly.
InteractionsView
Decreased effectiveness with folic acid and its derivatives.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category X. Studies in animals or human beings have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or there is evidence of fetal risk based on human experience or both, and the risk of the use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit. The drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.
Overdose effectsView
Nausea, vomiting, alopecia, melena, and renal failure.
ReconstitutionView
Intramuscular: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
StorageView
Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Methox
Methotrexate
Methox
Methotrexate
Indications
Vasculitis
Indication detailsView
Neoplastic Diseases: Methotrexate is indicated in the treatment of gestational choriocarcinoma, chorioadenoma destruens and hydatidiform mole. Methotrexate is used in maintenance therapy in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents. Methotrexate is used alone or in combination with other anticancer agents in the treatment of breast cancer, epidermoid cancers of the head and neck, advanced mycosis fungoides (cutaneous T cell lymphoma), and lung cancer, particularly squamous cell and small cell types. Methotrexate is also used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of advanced stage non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Psoriasis: Methotrexate is indicated in the symptomatic control of severe, recalcitrant, disabling psoriasis that is not adequately responsive to other forms of therapy, but only when the diagnosis has been established, as by biopsy and/or after dermatologic consultation. It is important to ensure that a psoriasis “flare” is not due to an undiagnosed concomitant disease affecting immune responses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Including Polyarticular-Course Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis: Methotrexate is indicated in the management of selected adults with severe, active, rheumatoid arthritis (ACR criteria), or children with active polyarticular course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, who have had an insufficient therapeutic response to, or are intolerant of, an adequate trial of first-line therapy including full dose non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs).
Aspirin, NSAIDs, and/or low dose steroids may be continued, although the possibility of increased toxicity with concomitant use of NSAIDs including salicylates has not been fully explored. Steroids may be reduced gradually in patients who respond to methotrexate. Combined use of methotrexate with gold, penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine, or cytotoxic agents, has not been studied and may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Rest and physiotherapy as indicated should be continued.
Therapeutic classView
Antidote preparations, Immunosuppressant
PharmacologyView
Methotrexate inhibits dihydrofolic acid reductase. Dihydrofolates must be reduced to tetrahydrofolates by this enzyme before they can be utilized as carriers of one-carbon groups in the synthesis of p.r.n. nucleotides and thymidylate. Therefore, methotrexate interferes with DNA synthesis, repair, and cellular replication. Actively proliferating tissues such as malignant cells, bone marrow, fetal cells, buccal and intestinal mucosa, and cells of the urinary bladder are in general more sensitive to this effect of methotrexate. When cellular proliferation in malignant tissues is greater than in most normal tissues, methotrexate may impair malignant growth without irreversible damage to normal tissues
DosageView
Oral-
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days, repeat after an interval of ≥1 wk for 3-5 courses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Burkitt's lymphoma: 10-25 mg daily for 4-8 days, repeated after 7-10 days.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose, adjust subsequent doses based on response.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 7.5 mg once wkly, adjust by response. Not more than 20 mg/wk.
- Mycosis fungoides: 2.5-10 mg daily to induce remission.
- Crohn's disease: 12.5-22.5 mg once wkly for up to 1 yr.
- Psoriasis: 10-25 mg wkly as a single dose. Adjust subsequent doses based on response. May be given via IV/IM admin.
- Choriocarcinoma: 15-30 mg daily for 5 days. Repeat after at least 1 wk for 3-5 courses. Alternatively, 0.25-1 mg/kg (max: 60 mg) every 48 hr for 4 doses followed by folinic acid rescue, repeat at intervals of 7 days for 4 or more courses.
- Mycosis fungoides: 50 mg wkly as a single dose or 2 divided doses.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 15 mg/m2 once or twice wkly, with other agents.
- Crohn's disease: 25 mg once wkly for 16 wk. Maintenance: 15 mg wkly.
- Meningeal leukaemia: 12 mg/m2 (max 15 mg) once wkly for 2-3 wk, then once mthly. Alternatively, 200-500 mcg/kg every 2-5 day until CSF cell count is normalised.
- Osteosarcoma: Initial recommended dose: 12 g/m2 as a 4-hr infusion, followed by folinic acid, as part of combined therapy. May increase dose to 15 g/m2 in subsequent treatments if initial dosage is insufficient to achieve peak serum methotrexate levels of 454 mcg/mL at the end of the infusion. Methotrexate infusion is administered on postoperative wk 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 16, 29, 30, 44 and 45; in combination with other chemotherapy agents. Folinic acid can be given orally, IM or IV inj starting 24 hr after the beginning of the methotrexate infusion. Give via parenteral routes If patient experiences GI toxicity (e.g., nausea, vomiting). Usual dosage of folinic acid: 15 mg every 6 hr for a total of 60 hr or a total of 10 doses.
- Breast cancer: 10-60 mg/m2 often with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.
- Advanced lymphosarcoma: Up to 30 mg/kg, followed by folinic acid rescue.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: Maintenance: 2.5 mg/kg every 14 days.
AdministrationView
Should be taken on an empty stomach. Best taken on an empty stomach. May be taken with meals to reduce GI discomfort. Avoid taking with milk-rich products.
Side effectsView
Ulceration of the mouth and GI disturbances (e.g. stomatitis and diarrhoea), bone marrow depression, hepatotoxicity, renal failure, skin reactions, alopecia, ocular irritation, arachnoiditis in intrathecal use, megaloblastic anaemia, osteoporosis, precipitation of diabetes, arthralgias, necrosis of soft tissue and bone, anaphylaxis, impaired fertility.
ContraindicationsView
Severe renal or hepatic impairment, pre-existing profound bone marrow suppression in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholic liver disease, AIDS, pre-existing blood dyscrasias, pregnancy (in patients with psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis), breast-feeding.
PrecautionsView
Hepatic or renal impairment, bone marrow depression, elderly, neonates. Ulcerative disorders of the GI tract. Monitor haematological, renal and hepatic function, and GI toxicity regularly.
InteractionsView
Decreased effectiveness with folic acid and its derivatives.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category X. Studies in animals or human beings have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or there is evidence of fetal risk based on human experience or both, and the risk of the use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit. The drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.
Overdose effectsView
Nausea, vomiting, alopecia, melena, and renal failure.
ReconstitutionView
Intramuscular: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Intrathecal: Reconstitute to 2.5-5 mg/ml with normal saline, D5W, lactated Ringer's, or Elliott's B solution. Use preservative-free preparations.
Intravenous: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
Parenteral: Dilute powder with D5W or normal saline to a concentration ≤25 mg/ml (20 mg and 50 mg vials) and 50 mg/ml (1 g vial).
StorageView
Store at room temperature (15-25°C).
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Indications
Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome
Indication detailsView
Methyl Prednisolone Acetate is indicated in the treatment of asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, mycosis fungoides, pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme, primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis, ulcerative colitis, hematologic disorders, palliative management of leukemias and lymphomas, sympathetic ophthalmia, keratitis, allergic conjunctivitis, Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, symptomatic sarcoidosis, aspiration pneumonitis.
Therapeutic classView
Glucocorticoids
PharmacologyView
Methylprednisolone binds to and activates intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. Activated glucocorticoid receptors bind to promoter regions of DNA (which may activate or suppress transcription). Unbound glucocorticoids cross cell membranes and bind with high affinity to specific cytoplasmic receptors, modifying transcription and protein synthesis. By this mechanism, glucocorticoids can inhibit leukocyte infiltration at the site of inflammation, interfere with mediators of inflammatory response, and suppress humoral immune responses. The antiinflammatory actions of corticosteroids are thought to involve phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins, lipocortins, which control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
DosageView
1. Administration For Local Effect:
Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis: The dose for intra-articular administration depends upon the size of the joint and varies with the severity of the condition in the individual patient. The doses in the following table are given as a general guide:
Dermatological Conditions: 20 to 60mg of the suspension is injected into the lesion. It may be necessary to distribute doses ranging from 20 to 40mg by repeated local injections in the case of large lesions. One to four injections are usually employed, the intervals between injections varying with the type of lesion being treated and the duration of improvement produced by the initial injection.
2. Administration For Systemic Effect: In patients with the adrenogenital syndrome, a single intramuscular injection of 40mg every two weeks may be adequate. For maintenance of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the weekly intramuscular dose will vary from 40 to 120 mg. The usual dosage for patients with dermatologic lesions benefited by systemic corticoid therapy is 40 to 120 mg of methylprednisolone acetate administered intramuscularly at weekly intervals for one to four weeks. In acute severe dermatitis due to poison ivy, relief may result within 8 to 12 hours following intramuscular administration of a single dose of 80 to 120mg. In chronic contact dermatitis, repeated injections at 5 to 10 day intervals may be necessary. In seborrheic dermatitis, a weekly dose of 80mg may be adequate to control the condition. Following intramuscular administration of 80 to 120 mg to asthmatic patients, relief may result within 6 to 48 hours and persist for several days to two weeks. Similarly in patients with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), an intramuscular dose of 80 to 120mg may be followed by relief of coryzal symptoms within six hours persisting for several days to three weeks.
3. Multiple Sclerosis: In treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective (4mg of methylprednisolone is equivalent to 5mg of prednisolone). Or, as directed by the registered physician.
Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis: The dose for intra-articular administration depends upon the size of the joint and varies with the severity of the condition in the individual patient. The doses in the following table are given as a general guide:
- Large Size of joint (Knees, Ankles, Shoulders): 20 to 80 mg
- Medium Size of joint (Elbows, Wrists): 10 to 40 mg
- Small Size of joint (Metacarpophalangeal, Interphalangeal, Sternoclavicular, Acromioclavicular): 4 to 10 mg.
Dermatological Conditions: 20 to 60mg of the suspension is injected into the lesion. It may be necessary to distribute doses ranging from 20 to 40mg by repeated local injections in the case of large lesions. One to four injections are usually employed, the intervals between injections varying with the type of lesion being treated and the duration of improvement produced by the initial injection.
2. Administration For Systemic Effect: In patients with the adrenogenital syndrome, a single intramuscular injection of 40mg every two weeks may be adequate. For maintenance of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the weekly intramuscular dose will vary from 40 to 120 mg. The usual dosage for patients with dermatologic lesions benefited by systemic corticoid therapy is 40 to 120 mg of methylprednisolone acetate administered intramuscularly at weekly intervals for one to four weeks. In acute severe dermatitis due to poison ivy, relief may result within 8 to 12 hours following intramuscular administration of a single dose of 80 to 120mg. In chronic contact dermatitis, repeated injections at 5 to 10 day intervals may be necessary. In seborrheic dermatitis, a weekly dose of 80mg may be adequate to control the condition. Following intramuscular administration of 80 to 120 mg to asthmatic patients, relief may result within 6 to 48 hours and persist for several days to two weeks. Similarly in patients with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), an intramuscular dose of 80 to 120mg may be followed by relief of coryzal symptoms within six hours persisting for several days to three weeks.
3. Multiple Sclerosis: In treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective (4mg of methylprednisolone is equivalent to 5mg of prednisolone). Or, as directed by the registered physician.
Side effectsView
Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, hypertension, sodium retention, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, peptic ulcer with possible subsequent and hemorrhage, abdominal distention, increased sweating, convulsion, vertigo, headache, menstrual irregularities, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, allergic or hypersensitivity reactions, urticaria, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
ContraindicationsView
Methylprednisolone acetate sterile aqueous suspension is contraindicated for intrathecal administration. It is also contraindicated in systemic fungal infections and patients with known hypersensitivity to the product and its constituents.
PrecautionsView
Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, renal insufficiency, hypertension, osteoporosis and myasthenia gravis.
InteractionsView
Convulsions have been reported with concurrent use of methylprednisolone and cyclosporine. Drug that induce hepatic enzymes such as phenobarbital, phenytoin and rifampicin may increase the clearance of methylprednisolone. Drug such as troleandomycin and ketoconazole may inhibit the metabolism of methylprednisolone and decrease its clearance. Methylprednisolone may increase the clearance of chronic high dose aspirin. There are reports of enhanced as well as diminished effects of anticoagulant when given concurrently with corticosteroids.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category C. Since adequate human reproduction studies have not been done with corticosteroids, the use of these drug in pregnancy, nursing mothers, or women of childbearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the potential hazards to the mother and embryo or fetus.
StorageView
Store between 20-25° C.
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone
Indications
Rheumatic disorders
Indication detailsView
Endocrine Disorders: Primary or Secondary Adrenocortical Insufficiency, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative Thyroiditis, Hypercalcemia associated with Cancer.
Rheumatic Disorders: Rheumatoid Arthritis. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Acute and Subacute Bursitis, Synovitis of Osteoarthritis, Acute nonspecific Tenosynovitis, Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Epicondylitis, Acute Gouty Arthritis.
Collagen Diseases: Systemic lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Dermatomyositis and Acute Rheumatic Carditis.
Dermatologic Diseases: Bullous Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Severe Erythema Multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), Severe Seborrheic Dermatitis, Exfoliative Dermatitis, Mycosis Fungoides, Pemphigus, Severe Psoriasis.
Allergy: Seasonal or Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Drug hypersensitivity reactions, Serum Sickness, Contact Dermatitis, Bronchial Asthma and Atopic Dermatitis;
Ophthalmic Diseases: Allergic Corneal Ulcers, Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, Anterior segment inflammation, Sympathetic Ophthalmia, Keratitis, Optic Neuritis, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Chorioretinitis, iritis end iridocyclitis.
Respiratory Diseases: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means, berylliosis, Aspiration Pneumonitis.
Hematological Disorders: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in adults, Secondary Thrombocytopenia in adults, Acquired (Autoimmune) Hemolytic Anemia, Erythroblastopenia, Congenital (Erythroid) Hypoplastic Anemia.
Neoplastic Diseases: For palliative management of Leukemias and Lymphomas in adults, Acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous States: To induce a diuresis or remission of Proteinuria in the Nephrotic Syndrome, without Uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to Lupus Erythematosus.
Gastrointestinal Disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in Ulcerative Colitis & Regional Enteritis.
CNS Disease: Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis.
Rheumatic Disorders: Rheumatoid Arthritis. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Acute and Subacute Bursitis, Synovitis of Osteoarthritis, Acute nonspecific Tenosynovitis, Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Epicondylitis, Acute Gouty Arthritis.
Collagen Diseases: Systemic lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Dermatomyositis and Acute Rheumatic Carditis.
Dermatologic Diseases: Bullous Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Severe Erythema Multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), Severe Seborrheic Dermatitis, Exfoliative Dermatitis, Mycosis Fungoides, Pemphigus, Severe Psoriasis.
Allergy: Seasonal or Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Drug hypersensitivity reactions, Serum Sickness, Contact Dermatitis, Bronchial Asthma and Atopic Dermatitis;
Ophthalmic Diseases: Allergic Corneal Ulcers, Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, Anterior segment inflammation, Sympathetic Ophthalmia, Keratitis, Optic Neuritis, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Chorioretinitis, iritis end iridocyclitis.
Respiratory Diseases: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means, berylliosis, Aspiration Pneumonitis.
Hematological Disorders: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in adults, Secondary Thrombocytopenia in adults, Acquired (Autoimmune) Hemolytic Anemia, Erythroblastopenia, Congenital (Erythroid) Hypoplastic Anemia.
Neoplastic Diseases: For palliative management of Leukemias and Lymphomas in adults, Acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous States: To induce a diuresis or remission of Proteinuria in the Nephrotic Syndrome, without Uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to Lupus Erythematosus.
Gastrointestinal Disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in Ulcerative Colitis & Regional Enteritis.
CNS Disease: Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis.
Therapeutic classView
Glucocorticoids
PharmacologyView
Pharmacodynamic properties: Methylprednisolone Is a potent anti-inflammatory agent with the capacity to profoundly inhibit the immune system. Glucocorticoids primarily bind to and activate intracellular glucocorticoid receptors that being activated bind to promoter regions of DMA (which may activate or suppress transcription) and activate transcription factors that result in inactivation of genes through deacetylation of histones. Methylprednisolone influences the kidney and fluid & electrolyte balance, lipid,
protein, and carbohydrate metabolism, skeletal muscle, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system.
Pharmacokinetic properties: The absolute bioavailability of Methylprednisclone is generally high (82% to 89%) following oral administration and rapidly absorbed and the maximum plasma concentration is achieved around 1.5 to 2.3 hours across doses following oral administration in normal healthy adults. Methylprednisolone is widely distributed into the tissues and its volume of distribution is 41-61.5 liter. It crosses the Wood-brain barrier and the placental barrier and is secreted in breast milk. The plasma protein binding of Methylprednisolone in humans is approximately 77%. Methylprednisolone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. No dosing adjustments are necessary for renal failure. Methylprednisolone is haemodializable.
protein, and carbohydrate metabolism, skeletal muscle, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system.
Pharmacokinetic properties: The absolute bioavailability of Methylprednisclone is generally high (82% to 89%) following oral administration and rapidly absorbed and the maximum plasma concentration is achieved around 1.5 to 2.3 hours across doses following oral administration in normal healthy adults. Methylprednisolone is widely distributed into the tissues and its volume of distribution is 41-61.5 liter. It crosses the Wood-brain barrier and the placental barrier and is secreted in breast milk. The plasma protein binding of Methylprednisolone in humans is approximately 77%. Methylprednisolone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. No dosing adjustments are necessary for renal failure. Methylprednisolone is haemodializable.
DosageView
The usual range is 2-48 mg daily in divided doses, depending on the specific disease being treated.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive initial dosage: As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive, the initial dosage of Methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4-48 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated, in situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory dirtied response, Methylprednisolone should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. It should be emphasized that dosage requirements are variable and must be Individualized on the basis of the disease under treatment and the response of the patient.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive maintenance dosage: After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.
Multiple Sclerosis: In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of Methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64 mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective.
Methylprednisolone 4 mg tablet can be used to treat and to control severe allergy end dermatitis following the guideline listed below to minimize the steroid withdrawal syndromes:
The following should be kept in mind when considering alternate-day therapy:
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive initial dosage: As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive, the initial dosage of Methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4-48 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated, in situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory dirtied response, Methylprednisolone should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. It should be emphasized that dosage requirements are variable and must be Individualized on the basis of the disease under treatment and the response of the patient.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive maintenance dosage: After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.
Multiple Sclerosis: In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of Methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64 mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective.
Methylprednisolone 4 mg tablet can be used to treat and to control severe allergy end dermatitis following the guideline listed below to minimize the steroid withdrawal syndromes:
- Day 1: 2 tablets before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 2 tablets at bedtime
- Day 2: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 2 tablets at bedtime
- Day 3: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 4: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 5: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 6: 1 tablet before breakfast
The following should be kept in mind when considering alternate-day therapy:
- Basic principles and indications for corticosteroid therapy should be applied.
- Alternate-day therapy is a therapeutic technique primarily designed for pefienis in whom long-term pharmacologic corticoid therapy is anticipated.
- In less severe disease processes in which corticoid therapy is indicated, it may be possible to initiate treatment with alternate-day therapy. More severe disease state usually will require daily divided high dose therapy for initiai control of the disease process. The initial suppressive dose level should be continued until a satisfactory clinical response is obtained, usually four to ten days in the case of many allergic and collagen diseases.
Side effectsView
Short courses of Methylprednisolone are usually well-tolerated with few, mild side effects. Long term, high doses of Methyiprednisoione may produce predictable and potentially serious side effects. Whenever possible, the lowest effective doses of Methylprednisolone should be used for the shortest length of time to minimize side effects. Alternate day dosing also can help reduce side effects. Side effects of Methylprednisolone and other corticosteroids range from mild annoyances to serious irreversible bodily damage. Side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, high blood pressure, potassium loss, headache, muscle weakness, hair growth on the face, glaucoma, cataracts, peptic ulceration, growth retardation in children, convulsions, and psychic disturbances including depression, euphoria, insomnia etc. Prolonged use of Methylprednisolone can depress the ability of the body's adrenal glands to produce corticosteroids. Abruptly stopping Methylprednisolone in these individuals can cause symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency, with accompanying nausea, vomiting, and even shock. Therefore, withdrawal of Methylprednisolone usually is accomplished by gradually lowering the dose. Gradually tapering Methylprednisolone not only minimizes the symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency, it also reduces the risk of an abrupt flare of the disease being treated.
ContraindicationsView
Systemic fungal infections arid known hypersensitivity to components.
PrecautionsView
Adrenocortical insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted. Since mineralocorticoid secretion may be impaired, salt and/or a mineralocorticoid should be administered concurrently. There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids on patients with hypothyroidism and in those with cirrhosis. Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible corneal perforation. Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. The growth and development of infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be carefully observed.
InteractionsView
Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampin and Ketoconazole inhibit the metabolism of Methylprednisolone. Estrogens, including With control pills, can increase the effect of corticosteroids by 50%. Cyclosporin reduces the metabolism of Methylprednisolone. while Methylprednisolone reduces the metabolism of Cyclosporin. Methylprednisolone may increase or decrease the effect of blood thinners (e.g. Warfarin). For all these Interactions, the dose of Methylprednisolone may need to be lowered.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category C. Dregs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk te the foetus. Mefhyiprednisofone has not been adequately evaluated in nursing mothers.
Overdose effectsView
Report of acute toxicity and/or death following an overdose of glucocorticoid ere rare. No specific antidote is available; treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Serum electrolytes should be monitored.
StorageView
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone
Indications
Rheumatic disorders
Indication detailsView
Endocrine Disorders: Primary or Secondary Adrenocortical Insufficiency, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative Thyroiditis, Hypercalcemia associated with Cancer.
Rheumatic Disorders: Rheumatoid Arthritis. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Acute and Subacute Bursitis, Synovitis of Osteoarthritis, Acute nonspecific Tenosynovitis, Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Epicondylitis, Acute Gouty Arthritis.
Collagen Diseases: Systemic lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Dermatomyositis and Acute Rheumatic Carditis.
Dermatologic Diseases: Bullous Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Severe Erythema Multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), Severe Seborrheic Dermatitis, Exfoliative Dermatitis, Mycosis Fungoides, Pemphigus, Severe Psoriasis.
Allergy: Seasonal or Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Drug hypersensitivity reactions, Serum Sickness, Contact Dermatitis, Bronchial Asthma and Atopic Dermatitis;
Ophthalmic Diseases: Allergic Corneal Ulcers, Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, Anterior segment inflammation, Sympathetic Ophthalmia, Keratitis, Optic Neuritis, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Chorioretinitis, iritis end iridocyclitis.
Respiratory Diseases: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means, berylliosis, Aspiration Pneumonitis.
Hematological Disorders: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in adults, Secondary Thrombocytopenia in adults, Acquired (Autoimmune) Hemolytic Anemia, Erythroblastopenia, Congenital (Erythroid) Hypoplastic Anemia.
Neoplastic Diseases: For palliative management of Leukemias and Lymphomas in adults, Acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous States: To induce a diuresis or remission of Proteinuria in the Nephrotic Syndrome, without Uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to Lupus Erythematosus.
Gastrointestinal Disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in Ulcerative Colitis & Regional Enteritis.
CNS Disease: Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis.
Rheumatic Disorders: Rheumatoid Arthritis. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Acute and Subacute Bursitis, Synovitis of Osteoarthritis, Acute nonspecific Tenosynovitis, Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Epicondylitis, Acute Gouty Arthritis.
Collagen Diseases: Systemic lupus Erythematosus, Systemic Dermatomyositis and Acute Rheumatic Carditis.
Dermatologic Diseases: Bullous Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Severe Erythema Multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), Severe Seborrheic Dermatitis, Exfoliative Dermatitis, Mycosis Fungoides, Pemphigus, Severe Psoriasis.
Allergy: Seasonal or Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Drug hypersensitivity reactions, Serum Sickness, Contact Dermatitis, Bronchial Asthma and Atopic Dermatitis;
Ophthalmic Diseases: Allergic Corneal Ulcers, Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus, Anterior segment inflammation, Sympathetic Ophthalmia, Keratitis, Optic Neuritis, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Chorioretinitis, iritis end iridocyclitis.
Respiratory Diseases: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means, berylliosis, Aspiration Pneumonitis.
Hematological Disorders: Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura in adults, Secondary Thrombocytopenia in adults, Acquired (Autoimmune) Hemolytic Anemia, Erythroblastopenia, Congenital (Erythroid) Hypoplastic Anemia.
Neoplastic Diseases: For palliative management of Leukemias and Lymphomas in adults, Acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous States: To induce a diuresis or remission of Proteinuria in the Nephrotic Syndrome, without Uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to Lupus Erythematosus.
Gastrointestinal Disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in Ulcerative Colitis & Regional Enteritis.
CNS Disease: Acute Exacerbations of Multiple Sclerosis.
Therapeutic classView
Glucocorticoids
PharmacologyView
Pharmacodynamic properties: Methylprednisolone Is a potent anti-inflammatory agent with the capacity to profoundly inhibit the immune system. Glucocorticoids primarily bind to and activate intracellular glucocorticoid receptors that being activated bind to promoter regions of DMA (which may activate or suppress transcription) and activate transcription factors that result in inactivation of genes through deacetylation of histones. Methylprednisolone influences the kidney and fluid & electrolyte balance, lipid,
protein, and carbohydrate metabolism, skeletal muscle, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system.
Pharmacokinetic properties: The absolute bioavailability of Methylprednisclone is generally high (82% to 89%) following oral administration and rapidly absorbed and the maximum plasma concentration is achieved around 1.5 to 2.3 hours across doses following oral administration in normal healthy adults. Methylprednisolone is widely distributed into the tissues and its volume of distribution is 41-61.5 liter. It crosses the Wood-brain barrier and the placental barrier and is secreted in breast milk. The plasma protein binding of Methylprednisolone in humans is approximately 77%. Methylprednisolone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. No dosing adjustments are necessary for renal failure. Methylprednisolone is haemodializable.
protein, and carbohydrate metabolism, skeletal muscle, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the nervous system, and the endocrine system.
Pharmacokinetic properties: The absolute bioavailability of Methylprednisclone is generally high (82% to 89%) following oral administration and rapidly absorbed and the maximum plasma concentration is achieved around 1.5 to 2.3 hours across doses following oral administration in normal healthy adults. Methylprednisolone is widely distributed into the tissues and its volume of distribution is 41-61.5 liter. It crosses the Wood-brain barrier and the placental barrier and is secreted in breast milk. The plasma protein binding of Methylprednisolone in humans is approximately 77%. Methylprednisolone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. No dosing adjustments are necessary for renal failure. Methylprednisolone is haemodializable.
DosageView
The usual range is 2-48 mg daily in divided doses, depending on the specific disease being treated.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive initial dosage: As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive, the initial dosage of Methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4-48 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated, in situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory dirtied response, Methylprednisolone should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. It should be emphasized that dosage requirements are variable and must be Individualized on the basis of the disease under treatment and the response of the patient.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive maintenance dosage: After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.
Multiple Sclerosis: In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of Methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64 mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective.
Methylprednisolone 4 mg tablet can be used to treat and to control severe allergy end dermatitis following the guideline listed below to minimize the steroid withdrawal syndromes:
The following should be kept in mind when considering alternate-day therapy:
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive initial dosage: As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive, the initial dosage of Methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4-48 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated, in situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory dirtied response, Methylprednisolone should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. It should be emphasized that dosage requirements are variable and must be Individualized on the basis of the disease under treatment and the response of the patient.
As anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive maintenance dosage: After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.
Multiple Sclerosis: In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, daily doses of 160 mg of Methylprednisolone for a week followed by 64 mg every other day for 1 month have been shown to be effective.
Methylprednisolone 4 mg tablet can be used to treat and to control severe allergy end dermatitis following the guideline listed below to minimize the steroid withdrawal syndromes:
- Day 1: 2 tablets before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 2 tablets at bedtime
- Day 2: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 2 tablets at bedtime
- Day 3: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet after dinner + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 4: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet after lunch + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 5: 1 tablet before breakfast + 1 tablet at bedtime
- Day 6: 1 tablet before breakfast
The following should be kept in mind when considering alternate-day therapy:
- Basic principles and indications for corticosteroid therapy should be applied.
- Alternate-day therapy is a therapeutic technique primarily designed for pefienis in whom long-term pharmacologic corticoid therapy is anticipated.
- In less severe disease processes in which corticoid therapy is indicated, it may be possible to initiate treatment with alternate-day therapy. More severe disease state usually will require daily divided high dose therapy for initiai control of the disease process. The initial suppressive dose level should be continued until a satisfactory clinical response is obtained, usually four to ten days in the case of many allergic and collagen diseases.
Side effectsView
Short courses of Methylprednisolone are usually well-tolerated with few, mild side effects. Long term, high doses of Methyiprednisoione may produce predictable and potentially serious side effects. Whenever possible, the lowest effective doses of Methylprednisolone should be used for the shortest length of time to minimize side effects. Alternate day dosing also can help reduce side effects. Side effects of Methylprednisolone and other corticosteroids range from mild annoyances to serious irreversible bodily damage. Side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, high blood pressure, potassium loss, headache, muscle weakness, hair growth on the face, glaucoma, cataracts, peptic ulceration, growth retardation in children, convulsions, and psychic disturbances including depression, euphoria, insomnia etc. Prolonged use of Methylprednisolone can depress the ability of the body's adrenal glands to produce corticosteroids. Abruptly stopping Methylprednisolone in these individuals can cause symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency, with accompanying nausea, vomiting, and even shock. Therefore, withdrawal of Methylprednisolone usually is accomplished by gradually lowering the dose. Gradually tapering Methylprednisolone not only minimizes the symptoms of corticosteroid insufficiency, it also reduces the risk of an abrupt flare of the disease being treated.
ContraindicationsView
Systemic fungal infections arid known hypersensitivity to components.
PrecautionsView
Adrenocortical insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted. Since mineralocorticoid secretion may be impaired, salt and/or a mineralocorticoid should be administered concurrently. There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids on patients with hypothyroidism and in those with cirrhosis. Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible corneal perforation. Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. The growth and development of infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be carefully observed.
InteractionsView
Erythromycin, Clarithromycin, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampin and Ketoconazole inhibit the metabolism of Methylprednisolone. Estrogens, including With control pills, can increase the effect of corticosteroids by 50%. Cyclosporin reduces the metabolism of Methylprednisolone. while Methylprednisolone reduces the metabolism of Cyclosporin. Methylprednisolone may increase or decrease the effect of blood thinners (e.g. Warfarin). For all these Interactions, the dose of Methylprednisolone may need to be lowered.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy category C. Dregs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk te the foetus. Mefhyiprednisofone has not been adequately evaluated in nursing mothers.
Overdose effectsView
Report of acute toxicity and/or death following an overdose of glucocorticoid ere rare. No specific antidote is available; treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Serum electrolytes should be monitored.
StorageView
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succcinate
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succcinate
Indications
Vestibular neuritis
Indication detailsView
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate IM/IV is indicated in the following conditions:
Endocrine disorder: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, acute adrenocortical insufficiency, shock unresponsive to conventional, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Hypercalcemia associated with cancer.
Rheumatic disorder: Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, epicondylitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
Collagen disease: During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic lupus erythematosus; acute rheumatic carditis, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).
Dermatological disease: Pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, severe seborrheic dermatitis, severe psoriasis, mycosis fungoides.
Allergic states: Controls bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, serum sickness, seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, drug hypersensitivity reaction, urticarial transfusion reactions, acute noninfectious laryngeal edema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice), anaphylactic reactions.
Ophthalmic disease: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye, such as: herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis, iridocyclitis, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and chroiditis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia, anterior segment inflammation, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, keratitis.
Gastrointestinal disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: ulcerative colitis (systemic therapy), regional enteritis (systemic therapy), Crohn’s disease.
Respiratory disease: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy, Loafer syndrome not manageable by other means, aspiration pneumonitis.
Hematologic disorder: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (IV only, IM administration is contraindicated), erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia), congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults.
Neoplastic disease: For palliative management of: leukemias and lymphoma in adults, acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous state: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
Endocrine disorder: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, acute adrenocortical insufficiency, shock unresponsive to conventional, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Hypercalcemia associated with cancer.
Rheumatic disorder: Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, epicondylitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
Collagen disease: During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic lupus erythematosus; acute rheumatic carditis, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).
Dermatological disease: Pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, severe seborrheic dermatitis, severe psoriasis, mycosis fungoides.
Allergic states: Controls bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, serum sickness, seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, drug hypersensitivity reaction, urticarial transfusion reactions, acute noninfectious laryngeal edema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice), anaphylactic reactions.
Ophthalmic disease: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye, such as: herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis, iridocyclitis, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and chroiditis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia, anterior segment inflammation, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, keratitis.
Gastrointestinal disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: ulcerative colitis (systemic therapy), regional enteritis (systemic therapy), Crohn’s disease.
Respiratory disease: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy, Loafer syndrome not manageable by other means, aspiration pneumonitis.
Hematologic disorder: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (IV only, IM administration is contraindicated), erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia), congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults.
Neoplastic disease: For palliative management of: leukemias and lymphoma in adults, acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous state: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
Therapeutic classView
Glucocorticoids
PharmacologyView
Methylprednisolone, a naturally occurring glucocorticoid (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which has also salt-retaining properties, is used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. This synthetic analog is primarily used for its potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems. The intravenous injection of Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate, demonstrable effects are evident within one hour and persist for a variable period. Excretion of the administered dose is nearly complete within 12 hours. Thus, if constantly high blood levels are required, injections should be made every 4 to 6 hours. This preparation is also rapidly absorbed when administered intramuscularly and is excreted in a pattern similar to that observed after intravenous injection. Its anti-inflammatory potency is greater than prednisolone in the ratio of 5 to 4. It has only minimal mineralocorticoid properties and has less tendency than prednisolone to induce sodium and water retention. It influences carbohydrate, protein, fat and purine metabolism, electrolyte and water balance, and the functional capacities of the cardiovascular system, the kidney, the skeletal muscle, nervous system and other organs and tissues. It exerts a suppressive effect on the immune response.
DosageView
Methylprednisolone may be administered by IM or IV or by IV infusion. To administer by IM or IV injection, prepare solution as direction for reconstitution. The desired dose may be administered intravenously over a period of several minutes. When high dose therapy is desired, the recommended dose of Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate for Injection, USP is 30 mg/kg administered intravenously over at least 30 minutes. This dose may be repeated every 4 to 6 hours for 48 hours. In general, high-dose corticosteroid therapy should be continued only until the patient’s condition has stabilized usually not beyond 48 to 72 hours.
Although adverse effects associated with high dose short-term corticoid therapy are uncommon, peptic ulceration may occur. Prophylactic antacid therapy may be indicated.
In other indications, the initial dosage will vary from 10 to 40 mg of Methylprednisolone depending on the clinical problem being treated. The larger doses may be required for short-term management of severe, acute conditions. The initial dose usually should be given intravenously over a period of several minutes. Subsequent doses may be given intravenously or intramuscularly at intervals dictated by the patient’s response and clinical condition. Corticoid therapy is an adjunct to, and not a replacement for conventional therapy.
Dosage must be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days. If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. Routine laboratory studies, such as urinalysis, two-hour postprandial blood sugar, determination of blood pressure and body weight, and a chest X-ray should be made at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with an ulcer history or significant dyspepsia.
In pediatric patients, the initial dose of Methylprednisolone may vary depending on the specific disease being treated. The initial dose is 0.11-1.6 mg/day in three or four divided doses. Dosage may be reduced for infants and children but should be governed more by the severity of the condition and response of the patient than by age or size but it should not be less than 0.5 mg per kg every 24 hours.
In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis daily doses is 160 mg daily for 3 days. Methylprednisolone powder for injection/infusion should be given as an intravenous infusion over at least 30 minutes.
Although adverse effects associated with high dose short-term corticoid therapy are uncommon, peptic ulceration may occur. Prophylactic antacid therapy may be indicated.
In other indications, the initial dosage will vary from 10 to 40 mg of Methylprednisolone depending on the clinical problem being treated. The larger doses may be required for short-term management of severe, acute conditions. The initial dose usually should be given intravenously over a period of several minutes. Subsequent doses may be given intravenously or intramuscularly at intervals dictated by the patient’s response and clinical condition. Corticoid therapy is an adjunct to, and not a replacement for conventional therapy.
Dosage must be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days. If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. Routine laboratory studies, such as urinalysis, two-hour postprandial blood sugar, determination of blood pressure and body weight, and a chest X-ray should be made at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with an ulcer history or significant dyspepsia.
In pediatric patients, the initial dose of Methylprednisolone may vary depending on the specific disease being treated. The initial dose is 0.11-1.6 mg/day in three or four divided doses. Dosage may be reduced for infants and children but should be governed more by the severity of the condition and response of the patient than by age or size but it should not be less than 0.5 mg per kg every 24 hours.
In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis daily doses is 160 mg daily for 3 days. Methylprednisolone powder for injection/infusion should be given as an intravenous infusion over at least 30 minutes.
Side effectsView
Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Sodium retention, fluid retention, congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, potassium loss, hypokalemic alkalosis, hypertension.
Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, steroid myopathy, loss of muscle mass, severe arthralgia, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, pathologic fracture of long bones, osteoporosis.
Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, pancreatitis, abdominal distention, and ulcerative esophagitis.
Dermatologic: Impaired wound healing, thin fragile skin, petechiae and ecchymoses, facial erythema, increased sweating, may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment, convulsions, vertigo, headache.
Endocrine: Development of Cushingoid state, suppression of growth in children, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness, menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics.
Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, exophthalmos.
Others: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism.
The following additional adverse reactions are related to parenteral corticosteroid therapy: hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, subcutaneous and cutaneous atrophy, sterile abscess, anaphylactic reaction with or without circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, urticaria, nausea and vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias; hypotension or hypertension.
Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, steroid myopathy, loss of muscle mass, severe arthralgia, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, pathologic fracture of long bones, osteoporosis.
Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, pancreatitis, abdominal distention, and ulcerative esophagitis.
Dermatologic: Impaired wound healing, thin fragile skin, petechiae and ecchymoses, facial erythema, increased sweating, may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment, convulsions, vertigo, headache.
Endocrine: Development of Cushingoid state, suppression of growth in children, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness, menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics.
Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, exophthalmos.
Others: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism.
The following additional adverse reactions are related to parenteral corticosteroid therapy: hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, subcutaneous and cutaneous atrophy, sterile abscess, anaphylactic reaction with or without circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, urticaria, nausea and vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias; hypotension or hypertension.
ContraindicationsView
Methylprednisolone Sterile Powder is contraindicated:
- In systemic fungal infections and patients with known hypersensitivity to the product and its constituents.
- For intrathecal administration. Reports of severe medical events have been associated with this route of administration.
- Intramuscular corticosteroid preparations are contraindicated for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
PrecautionsView
Methylprednisolone, like many other steroid formulations, is sensitive to heat. Therefore, it should not be autoclaved when it is desirable to sterilize the exterior of the vial. The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment. When reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual. Since complications of treatment with glucocorticoids are dependent on the size of the dose and the duration of treatment a risk/benefit decision must be made in each individual case as to dose and duration of treatment and as to whether daily or intermittent therapy should be used. For chronic conditions, discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement.
InteractionsView
- Aminoglutethimide may lead to a loss of corticosteroid-induced adrenal suppression.
- Amphotericin B injection and potassium-depleting agents- When corticosteroids are administered concomitantly with potassium-depleting agents (i.e., amphotericin B, diuretics), patients should be observed closely for the development of hypokalemia.
- Macrolide antibiotics have been reported to cause a significant decrease in corticosteroid clearance.
- Anticholinesterases- Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents and corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, anticholinesterase agents should be withdrawn at least 24 hours before initiating corticosteroid therapy.
- Anticoagulants, oral- Coadministration of corticosteroids and warfarin usually results in inhibition of response to warfarin, although there have been some conflicting reports.
- Antidiabetics- Because corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations, dosage adjustments of antidiabetic agents may be required.
- Antitubercular drugs- Serum concentrations of isoniazid may be decreased.
- Cholestyramine may increase the clearance of corticosteroids.
- Cyclosporine Increased activity of both cyclosporine and corticosteroids may occur when the two are used concurrently. Convulsions have been reported with this concurrent use.
- Digitalis glycosides- Patients on digitalis glycosides may be at increased risk of arrhythmias due to hypokalemia.
- Estrogens, including oral contraceptives- Estrogens may decrease the hepatic metabolism of certain corticosteroids, thereby increasing their effect.
- Hepatic Enzyme Inhibitors- Drugs which inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 have the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids.
- Ketoconazole has been reported to significantly decrease the metabolism of certain corticosteroids by up to 60%, leading to an increased risk of corticosteroid side effects.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs)- Concomitant use of aspirin and corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- Skin tests- Corticosteroids may suppress reactions to skin tests.
- Vaccines- Patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy may exhibit a diminished response to toxoids and live or inactivated vaccines due to inhibition of antibody response.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in many species when given in doses equivalent to the human dose. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Infants born to mothers who have received corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism.
Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from corticosteroids, a decision should be made whether to continue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from corticosteroids, a decision should be made whether to continue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric usageView
Pediatric Use: The adverse effects of corticosteroids in pediatric patients are similar to those in adults. Like adults, pediatric patients should be carefully observed with frequent measurements of blood pressure, weight, height, intraocular pressure and clinical evaluation for the presence of infection, psychosocial disturbances, thromboembolism, peptic ulcers, cataracts and osteoporosis. Pediatric patients who are treated with corticosteroids by any route, including systemically administered corticosteroids, may experience a decrease in their growth velocity. In order to minimize the potential growth effects of corticosteroids, pediatric patients should be titrated to the lowest effective dose.
Geriatric Use: Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, refecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Overdose effectsView
Treatment of acute over dosage is by supportive and symptomatic therapy. For chronic over dosage in the face of severe disease requiring continuous steroid therapy, the dosage of the corticosteroid may be reduced only temporarily or alternate day treatment may be introduced.
ReconstitutionView
Directions for Reconstitution-
- Remove protective plastic flip-of seal.
- Cleanse stopper with a suitable germicide.
- Aseptically add 8 mL Water for Injection BP for the 500 mg vial or 16 ml for 1 gm vial by means of a syringe into the vial.
- Agitate to effect solution to dissolve the powder content.
- Invert vial. Insert the needle through the target area of stopper until the tip is just visible. Withdraw dose.
StorageView
Protect from light. Store at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C. Store solution at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C.Use solution within 48 hours after mixing.
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succcinate
Methsolon
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succcinate
Indications
Vestibular neuritis
Indication detailsView
Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate IM/IV is indicated in the following conditions:
Endocrine disorder: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, acute adrenocortical insufficiency, shock unresponsive to conventional, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Hypercalcemia associated with cancer.
Rheumatic disorder: Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, epicondylitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
Collagen disease: During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic lupus erythematosus; acute rheumatic carditis, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).
Dermatological disease: Pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, severe seborrheic dermatitis, severe psoriasis, mycosis fungoides.
Allergic states: Controls bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, serum sickness, seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, drug hypersensitivity reaction, urticarial transfusion reactions, acute noninfectious laryngeal edema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice), anaphylactic reactions.
Ophthalmic disease: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye, such as: herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis, iridocyclitis, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and chroiditis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia, anterior segment inflammation, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, keratitis.
Gastrointestinal disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: ulcerative colitis (systemic therapy), regional enteritis (systemic therapy), Crohn’s disease.
Respiratory disease: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy, Loafer syndrome not manageable by other means, aspiration pneumonitis.
Hematologic disorder: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (IV only, IM administration is contraindicated), erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia), congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults.
Neoplastic disease: For palliative management of: leukemias and lymphoma in adults, acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous state: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
Endocrine disorder: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency, acute adrenocortical insufficiency, shock unresponsive to conventional, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Nonsuppurative thyroiditis. Hypercalcemia associated with cancer.
Rheumatic disorder: Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, epicondylitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
Collagen disease: During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic lupus erythematosus; acute rheumatic carditis, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).
Dermatological disease: Pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, severe seborrheic dermatitis, severe psoriasis, mycosis fungoides.
Allergic states: Controls bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, serum sickness, seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis, drug hypersensitivity reaction, urticarial transfusion reactions, acute noninfectious laryngeal edema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice), anaphylactic reactions.
Ophthalmic disease: Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye, such as: herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis, iridocyclitis, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and chroiditis, optic neuritis, sympathetic ophthalmia, anterior segment inflammation, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, keratitis.
Gastrointestinal disease: To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: ulcerative colitis (systemic therapy), regional enteritis (systemic therapy), Crohn’s disease.
Respiratory disease: Symptomatic sarcoidosis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy, Loafer syndrome not manageable by other means, aspiration pneumonitis.
Hematologic disorder: Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults (IV only, IM administration is contraindicated), erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia), congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults.
Neoplastic disease: For palliative management of: leukemias and lymphoma in adults, acute leukemia of childhood.
Edematous state: To induce diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.
Miscellaneous: Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculosis chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
Therapeutic classView
Glucocorticoids
PharmacologyView
Methylprednisolone, a naturally occurring glucocorticoid (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which has also salt-retaining properties, is used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. This synthetic analog is primarily used for its potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems. The intravenous injection of Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate, demonstrable effects are evident within one hour and persist for a variable period. Excretion of the administered dose is nearly complete within 12 hours. Thus, if constantly high blood levels are required, injections should be made every 4 to 6 hours. This preparation is also rapidly absorbed when administered intramuscularly and is excreted in a pattern similar to that observed after intravenous injection. Its anti-inflammatory potency is greater than prednisolone in the ratio of 5 to 4. It has only minimal mineralocorticoid properties and has less tendency than prednisolone to induce sodium and water retention. It influences carbohydrate, protein, fat and purine metabolism, electrolyte and water balance, and the functional capacities of the cardiovascular system, the kidney, the skeletal muscle, nervous system and other organs and tissues. It exerts a suppressive effect on the immune response.
DosageView
Methylprednisolone may be administered by IM or IV or by IV infusion. To administer by IM or IV injection, prepare solution as direction for reconstitution. The desired dose may be administered intravenously over a period of several minutes. When high dose therapy is desired, the recommended dose of Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate for Injection, USP is 30 mg/kg administered intravenously over at least 30 minutes. This dose may be repeated every 4 to 6 hours for 48 hours. In general, high-dose corticosteroid therapy should be continued only until the patient’s condition has stabilized usually not beyond 48 to 72 hours.
Although adverse effects associated with high dose short-term corticoid therapy are uncommon, peptic ulceration may occur. Prophylactic antacid therapy may be indicated.
In other indications, the initial dosage will vary from 10 to 40 mg of Methylprednisolone depending on the clinical problem being treated. The larger doses may be required for short-term management of severe, acute conditions. The initial dose usually should be given intravenously over a period of several minutes. Subsequent doses may be given intravenously or intramuscularly at intervals dictated by the patient’s response and clinical condition. Corticoid therapy is an adjunct to, and not a replacement for conventional therapy.
Dosage must be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days. If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. Routine laboratory studies, such as urinalysis, two-hour postprandial blood sugar, determination of blood pressure and body weight, and a chest X-ray should be made at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with an ulcer history or significant dyspepsia.
In pediatric patients, the initial dose of Methylprednisolone may vary depending on the specific disease being treated. The initial dose is 0.11-1.6 mg/day in three or four divided doses. Dosage may be reduced for infants and children but should be governed more by the severity of the condition and response of the patient than by age or size but it should not be less than 0.5 mg per kg every 24 hours.
In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis daily doses is 160 mg daily for 3 days. Methylprednisolone powder for injection/infusion should be given as an intravenous infusion over at least 30 minutes.
Although adverse effects associated with high dose short-term corticoid therapy are uncommon, peptic ulceration may occur. Prophylactic antacid therapy may be indicated.
In other indications, the initial dosage will vary from 10 to 40 mg of Methylprednisolone depending on the clinical problem being treated. The larger doses may be required for short-term management of severe, acute conditions. The initial dose usually should be given intravenously over a period of several minutes. Subsequent doses may be given intravenously or intramuscularly at intervals dictated by the patient’s response and clinical condition. Corticoid therapy is an adjunct to, and not a replacement for conventional therapy.
Dosage must be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days. If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. Routine laboratory studies, such as urinalysis, two-hour postprandial blood sugar, determination of blood pressure and body weight, and a chest X-ray should be made at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with an ulcer history or significant dyspepsia.
In pediatric patients, the initial dose of Methylprednisolone may vary depending on the specific disease being treated. The initial dose is 0.11-1.6 mg/day in three or four divided doses. Dosage may be reduced for infants and children but should be governed more by the severity of the condition and response of the patient than by age or size but it should not be less than 0.5 mg per kg every 24 hours.
In the treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis daily doses is 160 mg daily for 3 days. Methylprednisolone powder for injection/infusion should be given as an intravenous infusion over at least 30 minutes.
Side effectsView
Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances: Sodium retention, fluid retention, congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, potassium loss, hypokalemic alkalosis, hypertension.
Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, steroid myopathy, loss of muscle mass, severe arthralgia, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, pathologic fracture of long bones, osteoporosis.
Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, pancreatitis, abdominal distention, and ulcerative esophagitis.
Dermatologic: Impaired wound healing, thin fragile skin, petechiae and ecchymoses, facial erythema, increased sweating, may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment, convulsions, vertigo, headache.
Endocrine: Development of Cushingoid state, suppression of growth in children, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness, menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics.
Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, exophthalmos.
Others: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism.
The following additional adverse reactions are related to parenteral corticosteroid therapy: hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, subcutaneous and cutaneous atrophy, sterile abscess, anaphylactic reaction with or without circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, urticaria, nausea and vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias; hypotension or hypertension.
Musculoskeletal: Muscle weakness, steroid myopathy, loss of muscle mass, severe arthralgia, vertebral compression fractures, aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads, pathologic fracture of long bones, osteoporosis.
Gastrointestinal: Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage, pancreatitis, abdominal distention, and ulcerative esophagitis.
Dermatologic: Impaired wound healing, thin fragile skin, petechiae and ecchymoses, facial erythema, increased sweating, may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Neurological: Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment, convulsions, vertigo, headache.
Endocrine: Development of Cushingoid state, suppression of growth in children, secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness, menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus, increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics.
Ophthalmic: Posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, exophthalmos.
Others: Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism.
The following additional adverse reactions are related to parenteral corticosteroid therapy: hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, subcutaneous and cutaneous atrophy, sterile abscess, anaphylactic reaction with or without circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, urticaria, nausea and vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias; hypotension or hypertension.
ContraindicationsView
Methylprednisolone Sterile Powder is contraindicated:
- In systemic fungal infections and patients with known hypersensitivity to the product and its constituents.
- For intrathecal administration. Reports of severe medical events have been associated with this route of administration.
- Intramuscular corticosteroid preparations are contraindicated for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
PrecautionsView
Methylprednisolone, like many other steroid formulations, is sensitive to heat. Therefore, it should not be autoclaved when it is desirable to sterilize the exterior of the vial. The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment. When reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual. Since complications of treatment with glucocorticoids are dependent on the size of the dose and the duration of treatment a risk/benefit decision must be made in each individual case as to dose and duration of treatment and as to whether daily or intermittent therapy should be used. For chronic conditions, discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement.
InteractionsView
- Aminoglutethimide may lead to a loss of corticosteroid-induced adrenal suppression.
- Amphotericin B injection and potassium-depleting agents- When corticosteroids are administered concomitantly with potassium-depleting agents (i.e., amphotericin B, diuretics), patients should be observed closely for the development of hypokalemia.
- Macrolide antibiotics have been reported to cause a significant decrease in corticosteroid clearance.
- Anticholinesterases- Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents and corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, anticholinesterase agents should be withdrawn at least 24 hours before initiating corticosteroid therapy.
- Anticoagulants, oral- Coadministration of corticosteroids and warfarin usually results in inhibition of response to warfarin, although there have been some conflicting reports.
- Antidiabetics- Because corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations, dosage adjustments of antidiabetic agents may be required.
- Antitubercular drugs- Serum concentrations of isoniazid may be decreased.
- Cholestyramine may increase the clearance of corticosteroids.
- Cyclosporine Increased activity of both cyclosporine and corticosteroids may occur when the two are used concurrently. Convulsions have been reported with this concurrent use.
- Digitalis glycosides- Patients on digitalis glycosides may be at increased risk of arrhythmias due to hypokalemia.
- Estrogens, including oral contraceptives- Estrogens may decrease the hepatic metabolism of certain corticosteroids, thereby increasing their effect.
- Hepatic Enzyme Inhibitors- Drugs which inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4 have the potential to result in increased plasma concentrations of corticosteroids.
- Ketoconazole has been reported to significantly decrease the metabolism of certain corticosteroids by up to 60%, leading to an increased risk of corticosteroid side effects.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs)- Concomitant use of aspirin and corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
- Skin tests- Corticosteroids may suppress reactions to skin tests.
- Vaccines- Patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy may exhibit a diminished response to toxoids and live or inactivated vaccines due to inhibition of antibody response.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in many species when given in doses equivalent to the human dose. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Infants born to mothers who have received corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism.
Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from corticosteroids, a decision should be made whether to continue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Lactation: Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from corticosteroids, a decision should be made whether to continue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric usageView
Pediatric Use: The adverse effects of corticosteroids in pediatric patients are similar to those in adults. Like adults, pediatric patients should be carefully observed with frequent measurements of blood pressure, weight, height, intraocular pressure and clinical evaluation for the presence of infection, psychosocial disturbances, thromboembolism, peptic ulcers, cataracts and osteoporosis. Pediatric patients who are treated with corticosteroids by any route, including systemically administered corticosteroids, may experience a decrease in their growth velocity. In order to minimize the potential growth effects of corticosteroids, pediatric patients should be titrated to the lowest effective dose.
Geriatric Use: Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, refecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Overdose effectsView
Treatment of acute over dosage is by supportive and symptomatic therapy. For chronic over dosage in the face of severe disease requiring continuous steroid therapy, the dosage of the corticosteroid may be reduced only temporarily or alternate day treatment may be introduced.
ReconstitutionView
Directions for Reconstitution-
- Remove protective plastic flip-of seal.
- Cleanse stopper with a suitable germicide.
- Aseptically add 8 mL Water for Injection BP for the 500 mg vial or 16 ml for 1 gm vial by means of a syringe into the vial.
- Agitate to effect solution to dissolve the powder content.
- Invert vial. Insert the needle through the target area of stopper until the tip is just visible. Withdraw dose.
StorageView
Protect from light. Store at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C. Store solution at controlled room temperature 20° to 25°C.Use solution within 48 hours after mixing.
Methyphen
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
Methyphen
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
Indications
Narcolepsy
Indication detailsView
Methylphenidate is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyper activity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.
Therapeutic classView
CNS stimulant drugs
PharmacologyView
methylphenidate (MPH) has been shown to act as a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), thereby increasing the presence of these neurotransmitters in the extraneuronal space and prolonging their action. There is a dose-related effect of psychostimulants on receptor stimulation, where higher doses are shown to increase norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) efflux throughout the brain which can result in impaired cognition and locomotor-activating effects. In contrast, low doses are found to selectively activate NE and DE neurotransmission within the prefrontal cortex which is an area of the brain thought to play a prominent role in ADHD pathophysiology, thereby improving clinical efficacy and preventing side effects. The lower doses used to treat ADHD are not associated with the locomotor-activating effects associated with higher doses and instead reduce movement, impulsivity, and increase cognitive function including sustained attention and working memory. Methylphenidate's beneficial effects in sustaining attention have also been shown to be mediated by alpha-1 adrenergic receptor activity.
Clinical findings have shown that children with ADHD have an abnormality in the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), the D4 receptor gene (DRD-4), and/or the D2 receptor gene that may be at least partly overcome by the dopaminergic effects of methylphenidate, suggesting a possible mode of action.
Clinical findings have shown that children with ADHD have an abnormality in the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), the D4 receptor gene (DRD-4), and/or the D2 receptor gene that may be at least partly overcome by the dopaminergic effects of methylphenidate, suggesting a possible mode of action.
DosageView
Child: Over 6 years, initially 5 mg 1-2 times daily, increased if necessary at weekly intervals by 5-10 mg daily to max. 60 mg daily in divided doses; discontinue if no response after one month also suspend periodically to assess child’s condition (usually finally discontinued during or after puberty); Child under 6 years not recommended.
Adult: 10-15 mg daily in divided doses (2-3 times daily). Average dosage is 20-30 mg daily. Some patients may require 40-60 mg daily. Patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day should take the last dose before 6 pm.
Adult: 10-15 mg daily in divided doses (2-3 times daily). Average dosage is 20-30 mg daily. Some patients may require 40-60 mg daily. Patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day should take the last dose before 6 pm.
AdministrationView
Should be taken on an empty stomach. Take 30-45 min before meals. May be taken with or without food. Swallow whole, do not divide/chew/crush.
Side effectsView
Sleep disturbances, restlessness, dizziness, headache, tremor, convulsion, rash, pruritis; urticaria, fever, arthralgia, alopecia, exfoliative, dermatitis, erythema multiforme, thrombocytopenic purpuria, thrombocytopenia, Leucopenia, urinary disorder and very rarely liver damage.
ContraindicationsView
Methylphenidate is contraindicated in alcoholics, emotionally unstable patients, drug abusers, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, psychoses, epilepsy, thyro-toxicosis, glaucoma marked anxiety, severe depression and known sensitivity to methylphenidate.
PrecautionsView
In mild hypertension (contraindicated if moderate or severe)-monitor blood pressure; history of epilepsy; tics and Tourette syndrome. Occasional cystic ovarian swellings in premenopausal women, occasional hypercalcemia if bony metastases; increased risk of thromboembolic events when used with cytotoxics; breast feeding; endometrial changes; porphyria
InteractionsView
The elimination of phenytoin is slowed by methylphenidate. It may also increase the anticoagulant effect of Coumarin. It also increases the serum concentration of imipramine and desipramine.
Pregnancy & lactationView
The use of methylphenidate in pregnancy and lactation has not been established.
StorageView
Store in a cool (below 25°C) and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of the children.
Metin
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metin
Metformin Hydrochloride
Indications
Type 2 DM
Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
- In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
- In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
- Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
- Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
- Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
- Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
- Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
- At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
- At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Metin
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metin
Metformin Hydrochloride
Indications
Type 2 DM
Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
- In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
- In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
- Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
- Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
- Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
- Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
- Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
- At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
- At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Metirox
Methimazole
Metirox
Methimazole
Indications
Hyperthyroidism
Indication detailsView
Methimazole is indicated:
- In patients with Graves' disease with hyperthyroidism or toxic multinodular goiter for whom surgery or radioactive iodine therapy is not an appropriate treatment option.
- To ameliorate symptoms of hyperthyroidism in preparation for thyroidectomy or radioactive iodine therapy.
Therapeutic classView
Anti-thyroid drugs
PharmacologyView
Methimazole inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones and thus is effective in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. The drug does not inactivate existing thyroxine and triiodothyronine that are stored in the thyroid or circulating in the blood nor does it interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid hormones given by mouth or by injection. Methimazole is readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, metabolized in the liver, and excreted in the urine.
DosageView
Methimazole is administered orally. The total daily dosage is usually given in 3 divided doses at approximately 8 hour intervals.
Adults: The initial daily dosage is 15 mg for mild hyperthyroidism, 30 to 40 mg for moderately severe hyperthyroidism, and 60 mg for severe hyperthyroidism, divided into 3 doses at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is 5 to 15 mg daily.
Pediatric: Initially, the daily dosage is 0.4 mg/kg of body weight divided into 3 doses and given at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is approximately 1/2 of the initial dose.
Use in children & adolescents: Because of post-marketing reports of severe liver injury in pediatric patient treated with propylthiouracil, Methimazole is the preferred choice when an antithyroid drug is required for a pediatric patient.
Adults: The initial daily dosage is 15 mg for mild hyperthyroidism, 30 to 40 mg for moderately severe hyperthyroidism, and 60 mg for severe hyperthyroidism, divided into 3 doses at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is 5 to 15 mg daily.
Pediatric: Initially, the daily dosage is 0.4 mg/kg of body weight divided into 3 doses and given at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is approximately 1/2 of the initial dose.
Use in children & adolescents: Because of post-marketing reports of severe liver injury in pediatric patient treated with propylthiouracil, Methimazole is the preferred choice when an antithyroid drug is required for a pediatric patient.
Side effectsView
Common: Skin rash, urticaria, nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, arthralgia, paresthesia, loss of taste, abnormal loss of hair, myalgia, headache, pruritus, drowsiness, neuritis, edema, vertigo, skin pigmentation, jaundice, sialadenopathy, and lymphadenopathy.
Rare: Agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and aplastic anemia, drug fever, a lupus-like syndrome, insulin autoimmune syndrome (which can result in hypoglycemic coma), hepatitis (jaundice may persist for several weeks after discontinuation of the drug), periarteritis, and hypoprothrombinemia. Nephritis occurs very rarely.
Rare: Agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and aplastic anemia, drug fever, a lupus-like syndrome, insulin autoimmune syndrome (which can result in hypoglycemic coma), hepatitis (jaundice may persist for several weeks after discontinuation of the drug), periarteritis, and hypoprothrombinemia. Nephritis occurs very rarely.
ContraindicationsView
Methimazole is contraindicated in the presence of hypersensitivity to the drug or any of the other product components.
PrecautionsView
Congenital Malformations: Methimazole readily crosses the placental membranes and can cause fetal harm, particularly when administered in the first trimester of pregnancy. If Methimazole is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be warned of the potential hazard to the fetus. Since some congenital defects have been reported in offspring of patients treated with Methimazole, it may be appropriate to use other agents in pregnant women requiring treatment for hyperthyroidism, particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy. If Methimazole is used, the lowest possible dose to control the disease should be given.
Agranulocytosis: Agranulocytosis is potentially a life-threatening adverse reaction of Methimazole therapy. Patients should be instructed to immediately report to their physicians if any symptoms suggestive of agranulocytosis, such as fever or sore throat occur. Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and aplastic anemia (pancytopenia) may also occur. The drug should be discontinued in the presence of agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia (pancytopenia), ANCA-positive vasculitis, hepatitis, or exfoliative dermatitis and the patient’s bone marrow indices should be monitored.
Liver Toxicity: Although there have been reports of hepatotoxicity associated with Methimazole, the risk of hepatotoxicity appears to be less with methimazole than with propylthiouracil, especially in the pediatric population. Drug treatment should be discontinued promptly in the event of clinically significant evidence of liver abnormality including hepatic transaminase values exceeding 3 times the upper limit of normal.
Hypothyroidism: Methimazole can cause hypothyroidism necessitating routine monitoring of TSH and free T4 levels with adjustments in dosing to maintain a euthyroid state. Because the drug readily crosses placental membranes, Methimazole can cause fetal goiter and cretinism when administered to a pregnant woman. For this reason, it is important that a sufficient, but not excessive, dose be given during pregnancy. Because Methimazole may cause hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding, prothrombin time should be monitored during therapy with the drug, especially before surgical procedures. Thyroid function tests should be monitored periodically during therapy. Once clinical evidence of hyperthyroidism has resolved, the finding of a rising serum TSH indicates that a lower maintenance dose of Methimazole should be employed.
Agranulocytosis: Agranulocytosis is potentially a life-threatening adverse reaction of Methimazole therapy. Patients should be instructed to immediately report to their physicians if any symptoms suggestive of agranulocytosis, such as fever or sore throat occur. Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and aplastic anemia (pancytopenia) may also occur. The drug should be discontinued in the presence of agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia (pancytopenia), ANCA-positive vasculitis, hepatitis, or exfoliative dermatitis and the patient’s bone marrow indices should be monitored.
Liver Toxicity: Although there have been reports of hepatotoxicity associated with Methimazole, the risk of hepatotoxicity appears to be less with methimazole than with propylthiouracil, especially in the pediatric population. Drug treatment should be discontinued promptly in the event of clinically significant evidence of liver abnormality including hepatic transaminase values exceeding 3 times the upper limit of normal.
Hypothyroidism: Methimazole can cause hypothyroidism necessitating routine monitoring of TSH and free T4 levels with adjustments in dosing to maintain a euthyroid state. Because the drug readily crosses placental membranes, Methimazole can cause fetal goiter and cretinism when administered to a pregnant woman. For this reason, it is important that a sufficient, but not excessive, dose be given during pregnancy. Because Methimazole may cause hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding, prothrombin time should be monitored during therapy with the drug, especially before surgical procedures. Thyroid function tests should be monitored periodically during therapy. Once clinical evidence of hyperthyroidism has resolved, the finding of a rising serum TSH indicates that a lower maintenance dose of Methimazole should be employed.
InteractionsView
With medicine: Anticoagulants (oral)- Due to potential inhibition of vitamin K activity by methimazole, the activity of oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) may be increased; additional monitoring of PT/INR should be considered, especially before surgical procedures. β-adrenergic blocking agents- Hyperthyroidism may cause an increased clearance of beta-blockers with a high extraction ratio. A dose reduction of beta-adrenergic blockers may be needed when a hyperthyroid patient becomes euthyroid. Digitalis glycosides- Serum digitalis levels may be increased when hyperthyroid patients on a stable digitalis glycoside regimen become euthyroid; a reduced dosage of digitalis glycosides may be needed. Theophylline- Theophylline clearance may decrease when hyperthyroid patients on a stable theophylline regimen become euthyroid; a reduced dose of theophylline may be needed.
With food: Always take at the same moment in regard to meals, food may affect absorption unpredictably.
With food: Always take at the same moment in regard to meals, food may affect absorption unpredictably.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category D. Due to the rare occurrence of congenital malformations associated with methimazole use, it may be appropriate to use other agents in pregnant women requiring treatment for hyperthyroidism particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy. Methimazole is excreted into breast milk. However, several studies found no effect on clinical status in nursing infants of mothers taking methimazole, particularly if thyroid function is monitored at frequent (weekly or biweekly) intervals.
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, headache, fever, joint pain, pruritus, and edema. Aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis may be manifested in hours to days. Less frequent events are hepatitis, nephrotic syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, neuropathies, and CNS stimulation or depression. In the event of an overdose, appropriate supportive treatment should be initiated as dictated by the patient’s medical status.
StorageView
Store in a cool (below 30°C) and dry place, away from light and children.
Metirox
Methimazole
Metirox
Methimazole
Indications
Hyperthyroidism
Indication detailsView
Methimazole is indicated:
- In patients with Graves' disease with hyperthyroidism or toxic multinodular goiter for whom surgery or radioactive iodine therapy is not an appropriate treatment option.
- To ameliorate symptoms of hyperthyroidism in preparation for thyroidectomy or radioactive iodine therapy.
Therapeutic classView
Anti-thyroid drugs
PharmacologyView
Methimazole inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones and thus is effective in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. The drug does not inactivate existing thyroxine and triiodothyronine that are stored in the thyroid or circulating in the blood nor does it interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid hormones given by mouth or by injection. Methimazole is readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, metabolized in the liver, and excreted in the urine.
DosageView
Methimazole is administered orally. The total daily dosage is usually given in 3 divided doses at approximately 8 hour intervals.
Adults: The initial daily dosage is 15 mg for mild hyperthyroidism, 30 to 40 mg for moderately severe hyperthyroidism, and 60 mg for severe hyperthyroidism, divided into 3 doses at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is 5 to 15 mg daily.
Pediatric: Initially, the daily dosage is 0.4 mg/kg of body weight divided into 3 doses and given at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is approximately 1/2 of the initial dose.
Use in children & adolescents: Because of post-marketing reports of severe liver injury in pediatric patient treated with propylthiouracil, Methimazole is the preferred choice when an antithyroid drug is required for a pediatric patient.
Adults: The initial daily dosage is 15 mg for mild hyperthyroidism, 30 to 40 mg for moderately severe hyperthyroidism, and 60 mg for severe hyperthyroidism, divided into 3 doses at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is 5 to 15 mg daily.
Pediatric: Initially, the daily dosage is 0.4 mg/kg of body weight divided into 3 doses and given at 8 hour intervals. The maintenance dosage is approximately 1/2 of the initial dose.
Use in children & adolescents: Because of post-marketing reports of severe liver injury in pediatric patient treated with propylthiouracil, Methimazole is the preferred choice when an antithyroid drug is required for a pediatric patient.
Side effectsView
Common: Skin rash, urticaria, nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, arthralgia, paresthesia, loss of taste, abnormal loss of hair, myalgia, headache, pruritus, drowsiness, neuritis, edema, vertigo, skin pigmentation, jaundice, sialadenopathy, and lymphadenopathy.
Rare: Agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and aplastic anemia, drug fever, a lupus-like syndrome, insulin autoimmune syndrome (which can result in hypoglycemic coma), hepatitis (jaundice may persist for several weeks after discontinuation of the drug), periarteritis, and hypoprothrombinemia. Nephritis occurs very rarely.
Rare: Agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia and aplastic anemia, drug fever, a lupus-like syndrome, insulin autoimmune syndrome (which can result in hypoglycemic coma), hepatitis (jaundice may persist for several weeks after discontinuation of the drug), periarteritis, and hypoprothrombinemia. Nephritis occurs very rarely.
ContraindicationsView
Methimazole is contraindicated in the presence of hypersensitivity to the drug or any of the other product components.
PrecautionsView
Congenital Malformations: Methimazole readily crosses the placental membranes and can cause fetal harm, particularly when administered in the first trimester of pregnancy. If Methimazole is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be warned of the potential hazard to the fetus. Since some congenital defects have been reported in offspring of patients treated with Methimazole, it may be appropriate to use other agents in pregnant women requiring treatment for hyperthyroidism, particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy. If Methimazole is used, the lowest possible dose to control the disease should be given.
Agranulocytosis: Agranulocytosis is potentially a life-threatening adverse reaction of Methimazole therapy. Patients should be instructed to immediately report to their physicians if any symptoms suggestive of agranulocytosis, such as fever or sore throat occur. Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and aplastic anemia (pancytopenia) may also occur. The drug should be discontinued in the presence of agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia (pancytopenia), ANCA-positive vasculitis, hepatitis, or exfoliative dermatitis and the patient’s bone marrow indices should be monitored.
Liver Toxicity: Although there have been reports of hepatotoxicity associated with Methimazole, the risk of hepatotoxicity appears to be less with methimazole than with propylthiouracil, especially in the pediatric population. Drug treatment should be discontinued promptly in the event of clinically significant evidence of liver abnormality including hepatic transaminase values exceeding 3 times the upper limit of normal.
Hypothyroidism: Methimazole can cause hypothyroidism necessitating routine monitoring of TSH and free T4 levels with adjustments in dosing to maintain a euthyroid state. Because the drug readily crosses placental membranes, Methimazole can cause fetal goiter and cretinism when administered to a pregnant woman. For this reason, it is important that a sufficient, but not excessive, dose be given during pregnancy. Because Methimazole may cause hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding, prothrombin time should be monitored during therapy with the drug, especially before surgical procedures. Thyroid function tests should be monitored periodically during therapy. Once clinical evidence of hyperthyroidism has resolved, the finding of a rising serum TSH indicates that a lower maintenance dose of Methimazole should be employed.
Agranulocytosis: Agranulocytosis is potentially a life-threatening adverse reaction of Methimazole therapy. Patients should be instructed to immediately report to their physicians if any symptoms suggestive of agranulocytosis, such as fever or sore throat occur. Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and aplastic anemia (pancytopenia) may also occur. The drug should be discontinued in the presence of agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia (pancytopenia), ANCA-positive vasculitis, hepatitis, or exfoliative dermatitis and the patient’s bone marrow indices should be monitored.
Liver Toxicity: Although there have been reports of hepatotoxicity associated with Methimazole, the risk of hepatotoxicity appears to be less with methimazole than with propylthiouracil, especially in the pediatric population. Drug treatment should be discontinued promptly in the event of clinically significant evidence of liver abnormality including hepatic transaminase values exceeding 3 times the upper limit of normal.
Hypothyroidism: Methimazole can cause hypothyroidism necessitating routine monitoring of TSH and free T4 levels with adjustments in dosing to maintain a euthyroid state. Because the drug readily crosses placental membranes, Methimazole can cause fetal goiter and cretinism when administered to a pregnant woman. For this reason, it is important that a sufficient, but not excessive, dose be given during pregnancy. Because Methimazole may cause hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding, prothrombin time should be monitored during therapy with the drug, especially before surgical procedures. Thyroid function tests should be monitored periodically during therapy. Once clinical evidence of hyperthyroidism has resolved, the finding of a rising serum TSH indicates that a lower maintenance dose of Methimazole should be employed.
InteractionsView
With medicine: Anticoagulants (oral)- Due to potential inhibition of vitamin K activity by methimazole, the activity of oral anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) may be increased; additional monitoring of PT/INR should be considered, especially before surgical procedures. β-adrenergic blocking agents- Hyperthyroidism may cause an increased clearance of beta-blockers with a high extraction ratio. A dose reduction of beta-adrenergic blockers may be needed when a hyperthyroid patient becomes euthyroid. Digitalis glycosides- Serum digitalis levels may be increased when hyperthyroid patients on a stable digitalis glycoside regimen become euthyroid; a reduced dosage of digitalis glycosides may be needed. Theophylline- Theophylline clearance may decrease when hyperthyroid patients on a stable theophylline regimen become euthyroid; a reduced dose of theophylline may be needed.
With food: Always take at the same moment in regard to meals, food may affect absorption unpredictably.
With food: Always take at the same moment in regard to meals, food may affect absorption unpredictably.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy Category D. Due to the rare occurrence of congenital malformations associated with methimazole use, it may be appropriate to use other agents in pregnant women requiring treatment for hyperthyroidism particularly in the first trimester of pregnancy. Methimazole is excreted into breast milk. However, several studies found no effect on clinical status in nursing infants of mothers taking methimazole, particularly if thyroid function is monitored at frequent (weekly or biweekly) intervals.
Overdose effectsView
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, headache, fever, joint pain, pruritus, and edema. Aplastic anemia or agranulocytosis may be manifested in hours to days. Less frequent events are hepatitis, nephrotic syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, neuropathies, and CNS stimulation or depression. In the event of an overdose, appropriate supportive treatment should be initiated as dictated by the patient’s medical status.
StorageView
Store in a cool (below 30°C) and dry place, away from light and children.
Metle
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metle
Metformin Hydrochloride
Indications
Type 2 DM
Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
- In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
- In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
- Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
- Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
- Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
- Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
- Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
- At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
- At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Metlife
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metlife
Metformin Hydrochloride
Indications
Type 2 DM
Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
- In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
- In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
- Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
- Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
- Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
- Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
- Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
- At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
- At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
Metlife
Metformin Hydrochloride
Metlife
Metformin Hydrochloride
Indications
Type 2 DM
Indication detailsView
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, particularly in overweight patients when dietary management and exercise alone does not result in adequate glycaemic control.
- In adults: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents or with insulin.
- In children from 10 years of age and adolescents: Metformin may be used as monotherapy or in combination with insulin.
Therapeutic classView
Biguanides
PharmacologyView
Metformin is a biguanide type oral antihyperglycemic drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its mechanism of action is different from those of sulfonylureas and it does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity by an increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
DosageView
Metformin immediate release tablet: Dosage of Metformin Hydrochloride must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance, while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day or 850 mg once a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly or 850 mg every 2 weeks, up to a total of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses. For those patients requiring additional glycemic control, Glucomin may be given to a maximum daily dose of 2550 mg per day. Doses above 2000 mg may be better tolerated given three times a day with meals.
- Children: The usual starting dose of Metformin is 500 mg twice a day, given with meals. Dosage increases should be made in increments of 500 mg weekly up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day, given in divided doses.
- Adult: The usual starting dose of Metformin XR is 500 mg once daily with the evening meal. Dose should be increased in increments of 500 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 2000 mg once daily with the evening meal, alternatively increased to 1000 mg twice daily taken with meal. Patient receiving Metformin immediate release tablet may be switched to Metformin extended release tablet up to a maximum recommended daily dose.
- Children: Metformin extended release tablet has not been studied in children.
- Renal impaired patient: Do not use Metformin in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Asses risk/benefit of counting if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Side effectsView
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Not known: Hemolytic anemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Very rare: Lactic acidosis. Decrease of vitamin B12 absorption with a decrease of serum levels during long-term use of metformin. Consideration of such etiology is recommended if a patient presents with megaloblastic anemia. Cases of peripheral neuropathy in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in post-marketing experience (frequency not known)
Nervous system disorders: Common: Taste disturbance. Not known: Encephalopathy
Gastrointestinal disorders: Very common: Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. These undesirable effects occur most frequently during the initiation of therapy and resolve spontaneously in most cases. To prevent them, it is recommended that metformin be taken in 2 or 3 daily doses during or after meals. A slow increase of the dose may also improve gastrointestinal tolerability.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Very rare: Isolated reports of liver function test abnormalities or hepatitis resolving upon metformin discontinuation.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Very rare: Skin reactions, such as erythema, pruritus, urticaria.
ContraindicationsView
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
- Any type of acute metabolic acidosis (such as lactic acidosis, diabetic ketoacidosis).
- Severe renal failure (GFR <30 mL/min).
- Acute conditions with the potential to alter renal function such as: dehydration, severe infection, shock.
- Acute or chronic disease, which may cause tissue hypoxia such as: cardiac or respiratory failure, recent myocardial infarction, shock, Hepatic insufciency, acute alcohol intoxication, alcoholism.
PrecautionsView
Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney and the risk of Metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Metformin may lower vitamin B12 level. It also increases risk of hypoglycemia when use in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogue.
InteractionsView
Co-administration with Carbonic anhydrase (Topiramate, Zonisamide) may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Drugs (Ranolazine, Dolutegravir, Cimetidine) that reduce Metformin clearance may increase the accumulation of Metformin. Alcohol can potentiate the effect of Metformin on lactate metabolism.
Pregnancy & lactationView
Pregnancy: Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy (gestational or permanent) is associated with an increased risk of congenital abnormalities and perinatal mortality. When the patient plans to become pregnant and during pregnancy, it is recommended that diabetes is not treated with metformin but insulin be used to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, to reduce the risk of malformations of the foetus.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Breastfeeding: Metformin is excreted into human breast milk. No adverse efects were observed in breastfed newborns/infants. However, as only limited data are available, breastfeeding is not recommended during metformin treatment. A decision on whether to discontinue breastfeeding should be made, taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding and the potential risk to adverse effects on the child.
Pediatric usageView
Elderly: Due to the potential for decreased renal function in elderly subjects, the metformin dosage should be adjusted based on renal function. Regular assessment of renal function is necessary.
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
Pediatric population: The diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus should be confirmed before treatment with metformin is initiated. No effect of metformin on growth and puberty has been detected during controlled clinical studies of one-year duration but no long-term data on these specific points are available. Therefore, a careful follow-up of the effect of metformin on these parameters in metformin-treated children, especially prepubescent children, is recommended.
Children aged between 10 and 12 years: Particular caution is recommended when prescribing to children aged between 10 and 12 years.
Renal function: As metformin is excreted by the kidney, creatinine clearance (this can be estimated from serum creatinine levels by using the Cockcroft-Gault formula) should be determined before initiating treatment and regularly thereafter:
- At least annually in patients with normal renal function,
- At least two to four times a year in patients with creatinine clearance at the lower limit of normal and in elderly subjects.
Overdose effectsView
Hypoglycemia has not been seen with Metformin doses up to 85 gm, although lactic acidosis has occurred in such circumstances. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency and must be treated in hospital. The most effective method to remove lactate and Metformin is hemodialysis.
StorageView
Keep below 30°C temperature, protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.