What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Depo-Medrol (Methylprednisolone)
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Product Details
Description
Depo-Medrol (Methylprednisolone) is a synthetic glucocorticoid prescribed for pain and swelling linked to arthritis, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory conditions. This medication is available in different strengths for intramuscular, intra-articular, soft tissue, or intralesional injections. By preventing the release of substances causing inflammation in the body, Depo-Medrol helps treat a variety of medical conditions.
Fact Table
Formula
C22H30O5
License
US FDA, US DailyMed
Bioavailability
89.9%
Legal status
Rx-only
Chemical Name
Methylprednisolone
Elimination half-life
1.8–2.6 hours
Dosage (Strength)
40mg / ml 1ml
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Depo-Medrol
Protein binding
78%
PubChem CID
6741
MedlinePlus
a682795
ChEBI
6888
ATC code
D07AA01
DrugBank
DB00959
KEGG
D00407
Routes of administration
Vial
Directions
Depo-Medrol is administered as an injection, typically starting at 4 to 120 mg, to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body. The dosage and frequency of the injections depend on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the medication. A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dosage and administer the injection in a medical setting.
Follow the directions given by your healthcare provider. The injection site is determined by the location where the synovial cavity is most superficial and free of large vessels and nerves. Before administering the medication, shake the vial well to ensure even distribution of the drug.
Ingredients
Depo-Medrol is a suspension for injection that contains Methylprednisolone acetate as its active ingredient.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- Systemic fungal infections, unless administered as an intra-articular injection for localized joint conditions
- Conditions that require intrathecal administration
- Known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any of its ingredients
- History of blood disorder called idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
- Use in premature infants
Cautions
- Before using Depo-Medrol, consult your doctor about the following:
- Any medications you take, as some may interact with Depo-Medrol
- Existing medical conditions, especially those affecting your kidneys, liver, heart, or immune system
- Recent or upcoming surgeries, as corticosteroids may affect the healing process
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as Depo-Medrol may harm the developing baby or pass into breast milk
- If you have thyroid problems, notify your healthcare professional, as corticosteroid metabolic rates can vary depending on your thyroid status.
- This drug could adversely affect your child's growth rate. If you observe irregular growth in your child, consult a physician.
- For those living with gastrointestinal conditions like diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, or peptic ulcers, caution is advised when using this medication. There is an elevated risk of intestinal perforation.
- Using the lowest effective dose for managing your medical condition is recommended. If you need to lower your dose, it's important to do so gradually.
- Maintain hygiene when using multi-dose vials. To clean the vial top, a povidone-iodine solution is advised.
- Serious neurological side effects like stroke, spinal cord infarction, or paraplegia could occur if the drug is administered epidurally.
- Low levels of potassium could result from this medication, potentially causing symptoms like muscle weakness, irregular heart rhythms, constipation, or leg cramps.
- If you experience mood swings, severe depression, or even psychosis, these could be symptoms of high doses.
- Ongoing treatment for longer than six weeks requires monitoring of intraocular pressure.
- Contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience signs of infection, such as swelling or fever. Avoid those with contagious diseases like measles or chickenpox while using this medication.
- Do not stop the medication suddenly or without medical guidance.
- Keep the vial away from high heat; autoclaving is not advised.
Side Effects
Depo-Medrol may cause certain side effects. Common side effects may include slow wound healing, weight gain, muscle weakness, increased sweating, and acne. In addition, some people may experience nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, dizziness, and trouble sleeping.
Depo-Medrol may also cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These side effects may include seizures, pancreatitis, esophagitis, heart problems, vision problems, and allergic reactions. If you’re taking Depo-Medrol and experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
This is not a complete list of side effects. Consult a healthcare provider for other potential side effects before starting treatment.
References:
- Depo-Medrol (Methylprednisolone) Prescribing Information. New York, NY: Pfizer; 2021
- Depo-Medrol (Methylprednisolone) Drug Label Information. Parsippany, NW: Zoetis, Inc; 2021
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 2402
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