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DEPO-MEDROL (methylprednisolone acetate)
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Summary Product Information
| Route of Administration | Dosage Form / Strength | Clinically Relevant Nonmedicinal Ingredients |
DEPO-MEDROL (Benzyl alcohol formula) Intramuscular Injection | 20 mg/mL 40 mg/mL 80 mg/mL injectable suspension | Benzyl alcohol, dibasic sodium phosphate, monobasic sodium phosphate, polyethylene glycol 3350, polysorbate 80, and sodium chloride. For a complete listing see Dosage Forms, Composition and Packaging section. |
DEPO-MEDROL (Myristyl gamma picolinium chloride formula) Intramuscular Injection
| 40 mg/mL 80 mg/mL injectable suspension | Myristyl gamma picolinium chloride, polyethylene glycol 3350 and sodium chloride. For a complete listing see Dosage Forms, Composition and Packaging section. |
Indications And Clinical Use
A. FOR INTRAMUSCULAR ADMINISTRATION
When oral therapy is not feasible and the strength, dosage form, and route of administration of the drug reasonably lend the preparation to the treatment of the condition, the intramuscular use of DEPO-MEDROL (methylprednisolone acetate) is indicated as follows:
- Endocrine Disorders
Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice, synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy, mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance). Acute adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice; mineralocorticoid supplementation may be necessary, particularly when synthetic analogs are used). Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypercalcemia associated with cancer, nonsuppurative thyroiditis.
- Rheumatic Disorders
As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: post-traumatic osteoarthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy), acute and subacute bursitis, epicondylitis, acute non-specific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
- Collagen Diseases
During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis), acute rheumatic carditis.
- Dermatologic Diseases
Pemphigus, severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, bullous dermatitis herpetiformis, severe seborrheic dermatitis, severe psoriasis, mycosis fungoides.
- Allergic States
Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment in: bronchial asthma, contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, serum sickness, drug hypersensitivity reactions, urticarial transfusion reactions, acute non-infectious laryngeal oedema (epinephrine is the drug of first choice).
- Ophthalmic Diseases
Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye, such as: herpes zoster ophthalmicus, iritis, iridocyclitis, chorioretinitis, diffuse posterior uveitis, optic neuritis, drug hypersensitivity reactions, anterior segment inflammation, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic corneal marginal ulcers, keratitis.
- Gastrointestinal Diseases
To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in: ulcerative colitis (systemic therapy), regional enteritis (systemic therapy).
- Respiratory Diseases
Symptomatic sarcoidosis, berylliosis, fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy, Loeffler's syndrome not manageable by other means, aspiration pneumonitis.
- Hematologic Disorders
Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia, secondary thrombocytopenia in adults, erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia), congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia.
- Neoplastic Diseases
For palliative management of: leukemias and lymphomas in adults, acute leukemia of childhood.
- Edematous States
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 antituberculous chemotherapy, trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.
B. FOR INTRA-SYNOVIAL OR SOFT TISSUE ADMINISTRATION (including periarticular and intrabursal) SEE WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
DEPO-MEDROL is indicated as adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: synovitis of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute and subacute bursitis, acute gouty arthritis, epicondylitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
C. FOR INTRALESIONAL ADMINISTRATION
DEPO-MEDROL is indicated for intralesional use in the following conditions: keloids, localized hypertrophic, infiltrated, inflammatory lesions of: lichen planus, psoriatic plaques, granuloma annulare, and Lichen Simplex chronicus (neurodermatitis), discoid lupus erythematosus, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, alopecia areata.
DEPO-MEDROL may also be useful in cystic tumors of an aponeurosis or tendon (ganglia).
Contraindications
Depo-Medrol is contraindicated:
- in patients with known hypersensitivity to any components of the product
- in patients with systemic fungal infections
- in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura when administered intramuscularly
- in patients administered with live or live, attenuated vaccines while receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids.
- in herpes simplex of the eye, except when used for short-term or emergency therapy as in acute sensitivity reactions
- in patients with vaccinia and varicella, except when used for short-term or emergency therapy as in acute sensitivity reactions
- epidural, intrathecal and intravascular administration
- for intra-articular injection in unstable joints
- in premature infants: DEPO-MEDROL with benzyl alcohol is contraindicated for use in premature infants (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Special Populations; Pediatrics). However, DEPO-MEDROL with myristyl gamma picolinium chloride may be used.
Warnings And Precautions
General
DEPO-MEDROL should not be administered by any route other than those listed under INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE. It is critical that, during administration of DEPO-MEDROL, appropriate technique be used and care taken to assure proper route of administration.
Administration by routes other than the ones listed under INDICATIONS has been associated with serious medical events.
Sterile technique is necessary to prevent infections or contamination.
This product contains benzyl alcohol which is potentially toxic when administered locally to neural tissue.
Intra-synovial and intra-articular injected corticosteroids may be systemically absorbed and produce systemic as well as local effects.
Appropriate examination of any joint fluid present is necessary to exclude a septic process. A marked increase in pain accompanied by local swelling, further restriction of joint motion, fever, and malaise are suggestive of septic arthritis. If this complication occurs and the diagnosis of sepsis is confirmed, appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be instituted.
Local injection of a steroid into a previously infected joint is to be avoided.
The slower rate of absorption by intramuscular administration should be recognized.
Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis
Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy. Discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical remission.
Animal studies found corticosteroids to have possible tumorigenic and mutagenic potential (see TOXICOLOGY, Carcinogenesis and also TOXICOLOGY, Mutagenesis).
Cardiovascular
Literature reports suggest an apparent association between the use of corticosteroids and left ventricular free wall rupture after a recent myocardial infarction; therefore, therapy with corticosteroids should be used with great caution in these patients.
As sodium retention with resultant oedema and potassium loss may occur in patients receiving corticosteroids, these agents should be used with caution, and only if strictly necessary, in patients with congestive heart failure. Corticosteroids should also be used with caution in hypertension, or renal insufficiency (see also WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Endocrine and Metabolism).
Adverse effects of glucocorticoids on the cardiovascular system, such as dyslipidemia and hypertension, may predispose treated patients with existing cardiovascular risk factors to additional cardiovascular effects, if high doses and prolonged courses are used. Accordingly, corticosteroids should be employed judiciously in such patients and attention should be paid to risk modification and additional cardiac monitoring if needed.
Thrombosis including venous thromboembolism has been reported to occur with corticosteroids. As a result corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients who have or may be predisposed to thromboembolic disorders.
Endocrine and Metabolism
Corticosteroid administration may result in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) suppression (secondary adrenocortical insufficiency). The degree and duration of adrenocortical insufficiency depends on the dose, frequency, time of administration and duration of glucocorticoid therapy. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy, therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, corticosteroid therapy may need to be reinstituted. Since mineralocorticoid secretion may be impaired, salt and/or a mineralocorticoid may need to be administered concurrently. If glucocorticoids are withdrawn abruptly, acute adrenal insufficiency leading to a fatal outcome may occur.
Because glucocorticoid-therapy can lead to or aggravate Cushing’s syndrome, glucocorticoids should be avoided in patients with Cushing’s disease.
Average and large doses of cortisone or hydrocortisone can cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium. These effects are less likely to occur with the synthetic derivatives except when used in large doses. Dietary salt restriction and potassium supplementation may be necessary. All corticosteroids increase calcium excretion. See also WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Cardiovascular.
Corticosteroids, including methylprednisolone, can increase blood glucose, worsen pre-existing diabetes, and predispose those on long-term corticosteroid therapy to diabetes mellitus.
There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids in patients with hypothyroidism. Metabolic clearance of corticosteroids is decreased in hypothyroid patients and increased in hyperthyroid patients. Changes in thyroid status of the patient may necessitate adjustment in dosage.
Pheochromocytoma crisis, which can be fatal, has been reported after administration of systemic corticosteroids, including methylprednisolone. Corticosteroids should only be administered to patients with suspected or identified pheochromocytoma after an appropriate risk/benefit evaluation
Gastrointestinal
Corticosteroids should be used with caution in non-specific ulcerative colitis, if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess or other pyogenic infection and in diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, and active or latent peptic ulcer, when steroids are used as direct or adjunctive therapy, since they may increase the risk of a perforation. Signs of peritoneal irritation following gastrointestinal perforation in patients receiving corticosteroids may be minimal or absent.
Glucocorticoid therapy may mask the symptoms of peptic ulcer so that perforation or haemorrhage may occur without significant pain. Glucocorticoid therapy may mask peritonitis or other signs or symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders such as perforation, obstruction or pancreatitis. In combination with NSAIDs such as Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), the risk of developing gastrointestinal ulcers is increased.
Hematologic
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. See also DRUG INTERACTIONS.
Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic
There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids in patients with cirrhosis.
High doses of corticosteroids may produce acute pancreatitis.
Hepatobiliary disorders have been reported which may be reversible after discontinuation of therapy. Therefore appropriate monitoring is required.
Immune
Corticosteroids may suppress the immune system and may mask some signs of infection, and new infections may appear during their use. There may be decreased resistance and inability to localize infection when corticosteroids are used. Infections with any pathogen including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan or helminthic organisms, in any location in the body, may be associated with the use of corticosteroids alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents that affect cellular immunity, humoral immunity, or neutrophil function1. These infections may be mild, but can be severe and at times fatal. With increasing doses of corticosteroids, the rate of occurrence of infectious complications increases.
Do not use intra-articularly, intrabursally, or for intratendinous administration for local effect in the presence of acute infection.
Recent studies suggest that corticosteroids should not be used in septic shock (an unapproved indication), and suggest that increased mortality may occur in some subgroups at higher risk (e.g., elevated serum creatinine greater than 2.0 mg/dL or secondary infections).
Fungal Infections
Corticosteroids may exacerbate systemic fungal infections and therefore should not be used in the presence of such infections. There have been cases reported in which concomitant use of amphotericin B and hydrocortisone was followed by cardiac enlargement and congestive heart failure (see CONTRAINDICATIONS; DRUG INTERACTIONS).
Special pathogens
Latent disease may be activated or there may be an exacerbation of intercurrent infections due to pathogens, including those caused by Amoeba, Candida, Cryptococcus, Mycobacterium, Nocardia, Pneumocystis, Taxoplasma.
It is recommended that latent amebiasis or active amebiasis be ruled out before initiating corticosteroid therapy in any patient who has spent time in the tropics or in any patient with unexplained diarrhea.
Similarly, corticosteroids should be used with great care in patients with known or suspected Strongyloides (threadworm) infestation. In such patients, corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression may lead to Stronglyoides hyperinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe entercolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia.
Corticosteroids should not be used in cerebral malaria. There is currently no evidence of benefit from steroids in this condition.
Tuberculosis
The use of corticosteroids in active tuberculosis should be restricted to those cases of fulminating or disseminated tuberculosis in which the corticosteroid is used for the management of the disease in conjunction with an appropriate antituberculous regimen.
If corticosteroids are indicated in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, close observation is necessary as reactivation of the disease may occur. During prolonged corticosteroid therapy, these patients should receive chemoprophylaxis.
Vaccinations
Administration of live or live, attenuated vaccines is contraindicated in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Killed or inactivated vaccines may be administered; however the response to such vaccines may be diminished. Indicated immunization procedures may be undertaken in patients receiving non-immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids.
While on corticosteroid therapy patients should not be vaccinated against smallpox. Other immunization procedures should not be undertaken in patients who are on corticosteroids, especially in high doses, because of possible hazards of neurological complications and lack of antibody response.
Viral Infections
Chicken pox and measles can have a more serious or even fatal course in pediatric and adult patients on corticosteroids. In pediatric and adult patients who have not had these diseases, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure. The contribution of the underlying disease and/or prior corticosteroid treatment to the risk is also not known. If exposed to chicken pox, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG) may be indicated. If exposed to measles, prophylaxis with immunoglobulin (IG) may be indicated. (See the respective package inserts for complete VZIG and IG prescribing information.) If chicken pox develops, treatment with antiviral agents should be considered.
Musculoskeletal
An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids, most often occurring in patients with disorders of neuromuscular transmission (e.g., myasthenia gravis, see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS - Neurologic), or in patients receiving concomitant therapy with anticholinergics such as neuromuscular blocking drugs (e.g., pancuronium). This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevations of creatine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years.
Corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption both through their effect on calcium regulation (e.g., decreasing absorption and increasing excretion) and inhibition of osteoblast function. This, together with a decrease in protein matrix of the bone secondary to an increase in protein catabolism, and reduced sex hormone production, may lead to inhibition of bone growth in pediatric patients and the development of osteoporosis at any age. Special consideration should be given to increased risk of osteoporosis (e.g., postmenopausal women) before initiating corticosteroid therapy.
Osteoporosis is a common but infrequently recognized adverse effect associated with a long-term use of large doses of glucocorticoid.
Neurologic
Results from one multicenter, randomized, placebo controlled study with IV methylprednisolone hemisuccinate, showed an increase in early (at 2 weeks) and late (at 6 months) mortality in patients with cranial trauma. Therefore systemic corticosteroids, including DEPO-MEDROL, are not indicated for, and therefore should not be used to treat traumatic brain injury.
Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients with seizure disorders.
Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients with myasthenia gravis.
There have been reports of epidural lipomatosis in patients taking corticosteroids (including reports in children).
Ophthalmologic
Use of corticosteroids may produce posterior sub-capsular cataracts and nuclear cataracts (particularly in children), exophthalmos, or increased intraocular pressure, which may result in glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves, and may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses. As intraocular pressure may become elevated in some individuals, if steroid therapy is continued for more than 6 weeks, intraocular pressure should be monitored. The use of systemic corticosteroids is not recommended in the treatment of optic neuritis and may lead to an increase in the risk of new episodes. Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible corneal perforation. Corticosteroids should not be used in active ocular herpes simplex.
Corticosteroid therapy has been associated with central serous chorioretinopathy, which may lead to retinal detachment.
Psychiatric
Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.
Potentially severe psychiatric adverse reactions may occur with systemic steroids. Symptoms typically emerge within a few days or weeks of starting treatment. Most reactions recover after either dose reduction or withdrawal, although specific treatment may be necessary.
Psychological effects have been reported upon withdrawal of corticosteroids; the frequency is unknown. Patients/caregivers should be encouraged to seek medical attention if psychological symptoms develop in the patient, especially if depressed mood or suicidal ideation is suspected. Patients/caregivers should be alert to possible psychiatric disturbances that may occur either during or immediately after dose tapering/withdrawal of systemic steroids.
Renal and urinary disorders
Caution is required in patients with systemic sclerosis because an increased incidence of scleroderma renal crisis has been observed with corticosteroids, including methylprednisolone.
Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients with renal insufficiency.
Sensitivity/Resistance
Allergic reactions may occur.Because rare instances of skin reactions and anaphalactic/anaphylactoid reactions have occurred in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy, appropriate precautionary measures should be taken prior to administration, especially when the patient has a history of allergy to any drug.
Sexual Function/Reproduction
Steroids may increase or decrease motility and number of spermatozoa in some patients.
Skin
While crystals of adrenal steroids in the dermis suppress inflammatory reactions, their presence may cause disintegration of the cellular elements and physicochemical changes in the ground substance of the connective tissue. The resultant infrequently occurring dermal and/or subdermal changes may form depressions in the skin at the injection site.
The degree to which this reaction occurs will vary with the amount of adrenal steroid injected. Regeneration is usually complete within a few months or after all crystals of the adrenal steroid have been absorbed.
Special Populations
Pregnant Women:
Corticosteroids readily cross the placenta. Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in many species when given in doses equivalent to human dose. Administration of corticosteroids to pregnant animals can cause fetal malformations (cleft palate, skeletal malformations) and intra-uterine growth retardation (see TOXICOLOGY, Reproductive toxicity).
One retrospective study found an increased incidence of low birth weights in infants born to mothers receiving corticosteroids. Cataracts have been observed in infants born to mothers undergoing long-term treatment with corticosteroids during pregnancy.
Since adequate human reproductive studies have not been done with methylprednisolone acetate, this medicinal product should be used during pregnancy at the lowest possible dose, only if clearly needed, where the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the embryo or fetus.
Infants born to mothers who have received substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy must be carefully observed and evaluated for signs of adrenal insufficiency. There are no known effects of corticosteroids on labour and delivery.
Benzyl alcohol can cross the placenta.
Nursing Women:
Corticosteroids distributed into breast milk may suppress growth and interfere with endogenous glucocorticoid production in nursing infants.
Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from corticosteroids, a careful benefit-risk assessment should be conducted and a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing, or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatrics:
DEPO-MEDROL is contraindicated for use in premature infants. Benzyl alcohol, a component of this product, has been associated with serious adverse events including death, particularly in pediatric patients, including the "gasping syndrome" in neonate and low-birth weight infants. The "gasping syndrome" is characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, gasping respirations, and high levels of benzyl alcohol and its metabolites found in the blood and urine. Additional symptoms may include gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic and renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. The minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known. Premature and low-birth-weight infants, as well as patients receiving high dosages (>90 mg/kg/day), may be more likely to develop toxicity. Practitioners administering this and other medications containing benzyl alcohol should consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources.
Growth may be suppressed in children receiving long-term, daily-divided dose glucocorticoid therapy. The use of such a regimen should be restricted to those most serious indications. Pediatric patients may experience a decrease in their growth velocity at low systemic doses and in the absence of laboratory evidence of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression. Growth velocity may therefore be a more sensitive indicator of systemic corticosteroid exposure in pediatric patients than some commonly used tests of HPA axis function. In order to minimize the potential growth effects of corticosteroids, pediatric patients should be titrated to the lowest effective dose.
Growth and development of infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be carefully observed. 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.
Infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy are at special risk from raised intracranial pressure.
High doses of corticosteroids may produce pancreatitis in children.
Monitoring and Laboratory testing
Corticosteroids may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Monitoring for signs and symptoms of drug-induced secondary adrenocortical insufficiency may be necessary for up to one year following cessation of long-term or high-dose corticosteroid therapy.
Adverse Reactions
The following adverse reactions have been reported with DEPO-MEDROL or other corticosteroids (Frequency Not Known)
Allergic reactions: Angioedema.
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: Leukocytosis
Cardiovascular: Bradycardia, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac enlargement, circulatory collapse, cardiac failure congestive (in susceptible patients), fat embolism, hypertension, hypotension, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in premature infants, myocardial rupture following recent myocardial infarction, pulmonary oedema, syncope, tachycardia, thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, vasculitis.
Dermatologic: Acne, allergic dermatitis, dry scaly skin, ecchymoses and petechiae, oedema peripheral, erythema, skin hyperpigmentation, skin hypopigmentation, impaired healing, rash, abscess sterile, skin striae, suppressed reactions to skin tests, skin atrophy, thinning scalp hair, urticaria, angioedema, pruritus, hyperhidrosis, injection site reaction, and injection site infection. Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy.
Endocrine: Carbohydrate tolerance decreased, Cushingoid, moon face, weight gain, abnormal fat deposits, glycosuria, hirsutism, hypertrichosis, increased requirements for insulin (or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetes), glucose tolerance impaired, menstruation irregular, hypopituitarism (particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery, or illness), growth retardation, steroid withdrawal syndrome, urine calcium increased, blood urea increased.
A steroid “withdrawal syndrome,” seemingly unrelated to adrenocortical insufficiency, may also occur following abrupt discontinuance of glucocorticoids. This syndrome includes symptoms such as: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, fever, joint pain, desquamation, myalgia, weight loss, and/or hypotension. These effects are thought to be due to the sudden change in glucocorticoid concentration rather than to low corticosteroid levels.
Fluid and electrolyte disturbances: Sodium retention, fluid retention, congestive heart failure in susceptible patients, blood potassium decreased, alkalosis hypokalemic, hypertension.
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distension, abdominal pain, functional gastrointestinal disorder/bladder dysfunction, nausea, pancreatitis, peptic ulcer (with possible subsequent peptic ulcer perforation and peptic ulcer haemorrhage), intestinal perforation (particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease), oesophagitis ulcerative, oesophagitis, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, gastric haemorrhage, peritonitis (peritonitis may be the primary presenting sign or symptom of a gastrointestinal disorder such as perforation, obstruction or pancreatitis).
Hepatic: Alanine aminotransferase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, blood alkaline phosphatase increased. Hepatomegaly has also been observed.
Immune System: Infection, decreased resistance to infection, opportunistic infections, drug hypersensitivity, anaphylactoid reaction, anaphylactic reaction, suppression of reactions to skin tests.
Metabolic: Nitrogen balance negative (due to protein catabolism), dyslipidaemia, lipomatosis, increased appetite (which may result in weight gain), metabolic acidosis.
Musculoskeletal: Osteonecrosis, calcinosis (following intra-articular or intralesional use), Charcot-like arthropathy, muscle atrophy, muscular weakness, malaise, osteoporosis, pathological fracture, postinjection flare (following intra-articular use), myopathy, tendon rupture (particularly of the Achilles tendon), spinal compression fracture, arthralgia, myalgia.
Neurologic/Psychiatric: Convulsion, headache, intracranial pressure increased (with papilloedema [idiopathic intracranial hypertension], usually following discontinuation of treatment), vertigo, neuritis, neuropathy, paresthesia, amnesia, cognitive disorder, dizziness, epidural lipomatosis, emotional instability, insomnia, mood swings, personality change, affective disorder (including affect lability, depressed mood, euphoric mood, psychological dependence, suicidal ideation), psychotic disorder (including mania, delusion, hallucination, schizophrenia [aggravation of]), confusional state, mental disorder, anxiety, abnormal behaviour, irritability.
Ophthalmic: Cataract, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, exophthalmos, central serous chorioretinopathy.
Reproductive System: Increased or decreased motility and number of spermatozoa
Other: hiccups, fatigue, pulmonary embolism.
Drug Interactions
Overview
Methylprednisolone is a cytochrome P450 enzyme (CYP) substrate and is mainly metabolized by the CYP3A enzyme. CYP3A4 is the dominant enzyme of the most abundant CYP subfamily in the liver of adult humans. It catalyzes 6β-hydroxylation of steroids, the essential Phase I metabolic step for both endogenous and synthetic corticosteroids. Many other compounds are also substrates of CYP3A4, some of which (as well as other drugs) have been shown to alter glucocorticoid metabolism by induction (upregulation) or inhibition of the CYP3A4 enzyme.
CYP3A4 INHIBITORS – Drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 activity generally decrease hepatic clearance and increase the plasma concentration of CYP3A4 substrate medications, such as methylprednisolone. In the presence of a CYP3A4 inhibitor, the dose of methylprednisolone may need to be titrated to avoid steroid toxicity.
CYP3A4 INDUCERS – Drugs that induce CYP3A4 activity generally increase hepatic clearance, resulting in decreased plasma concentration of medications that are substrates for CYP3A4. Coadministration may require an increase in methylprednisolone dosage to achieve the desired result.
CYP3A4 SUBSTRATES – In the presence of another CYP3A4 substrate, the hepatic clearance of methylprednisolone may be affected, with corresponding dosage adjustments required. It is possible that adverse events associated with the use of either drug alone may be more likely to occur with coadministration.
NON-CYP3A4-MEDIATED EFFECTS – Other interactions that may occur with methylprednisolone are described in the Table below.
Drug-Drug Interactions
Drug Class or Type
| Interaction or Effect |
Antibacterial
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR. In addition, there is a potential effect of methylprednisolone to increase the acetylation rate and clearance of isoniazid. |
Antibiotic
| CYP3A4 INDUCER |
| Anticoagulants (oral) | The effect of methylprednisolone on oral anticoagulants is variable. There are reports of enhanced as well as diminished effects of anticoagulants when given concurrently with corticosteroids. Therefore, coagulation indices should be monitored to maintain the desired anticoagulant effects. Coadministration of corticosteroids and warfarin usually results in inhibition of response to warfarin, although there have been some conflicting reports. Therefore, coagulation indices should be monitored frequently to maintain the desired anticoagulant effect. |
Anticonvulsant
| CYP3A4 INDUCER (and SUBSTRATE) |
Anticonvulsants
| CYP3A4 INDUCERS |
Anticholinergics
| Corticosteroids may influence the effect of anticholinergics. 1) An acute myopathy has been reported with the concomitant use of high doses of corticosteroids and anticholinergics, such as neuromuscular blocking drugs. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS - Musculoskeletal, for additional information.) 2) Antagonism of the neuromuscular blocking effects of pancuronium and vecuronium has been reported in patients taking corticosteroids. This interaction may be expected with all competitive neuromuscular blockers. |
| Anticholinesterases | Steroids may reduce the effects of anticholinesterases in myasthenia gravis. 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. |
| Antidiabetics | Because corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations, dosage adjustments of antidiabetic agents may be required. |
Antiemetic
| CYP3A4 INHIBITORS (and SUBSTRATES) |
Antifungal
| CYP3A4 INHIBITORS (and SUBSTRATE) |
| Antitubercular drugs | Serum concentrations of isoniazid may be decreased. |
Antivirals
| CYP3A4 INHIBITORS (and SUBSTRATES) 1) Protease inhibitors, such as indinavir and ritonavir, may increase plasma concentrations of corticosteroids. 2) Corticosteroids may induce the metabolism of HIV-protease inhibitors resulting in reduced plasma concentrations. |
Aromatase inhibitor
| Aminoglutethimide-induced adrenal suppression may exacerbate endocrine changes caused by prolonged glucocorticoid treatment. Aminoglutethimide may lead to a loss of corticosteroid-induced adrenal suppression. |
| Cholestyramine | Cholestyramine may increase the clearance of oral corticosteroids. |
Calcium Channel Blocker
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR (and SUBSTRATE) |
Contraceptives (oral)
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR (and SUBSTRATE) Estrogens may decrease the hepatic metabolism of certain corticosteroids, thereby increasing their effect. |
| Digitalis glycosides | Patients on digitalis glycosides may be at increased risk of arrhythmias due to hypokalemia. |
Immunosuppressant
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR (and SUBSTRATE) 1) Mutual inhibition of metabolism occurs with concurrent use of cyclosprine and methylprednisolone, which may increase the plasma concentrations of either or both drugs. Therefore, it is possible that adverse events associated with the use of either drug alone may be more likely to occur upon coadministration. 2) Convulsions have been reported with concurrent use of methylprednisolone and cyclosporine. 3) Increased activity of both cyclosporine and corticosteroids may occur when the two are used concurrently. Convulsions have been reported with concurrent use. Mutual inhibition of metabolism occurs with concurrent use of cyclosporine and methylprednisolone, therefore it is possible that adverse events associated with the individual use of either drug may be more apt to occur. |
Immunosuppressant
| CYP3A4 SUBSTRATE |
| Ketoconazole | 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. |
Macrolide Antibacterial
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR (and SUBSTRATE) Macrolide antibiotics have been reported to cause a significant decrease in corticosteroid clearance (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions, Hepatic Enzyme Inhibitors). |
Macrolide Antibacterial
| CYP3A4 INHIBITOR Macrolide antibiotics have been reported to cause a significant decrease in corticosteroid clearance (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions, Hepatic Enzyme Inhibitors). |
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
| 1) There may be increased incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration when corticosteroids are given with NSAIDs. 2) Methylprednisolone may increase the clearance of high-dose aspirin, which can lead to decreased salicylate serum levels. Discontinuation of methylprednisolone treatment can lead to raised salicylate serum levels, which could lead to an increased risk of salicylate toxicity. 3) Concomitant use of aspirin (or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents) and corticosteroids increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with concurrent use of corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia. The clearance of salicylates may be increased with concurrent use of corticosteroids. |
| Potassium-depleting agents | When corticosteroids are administered concomitantly with potassium-depleting agents (i.e., diuretics Amphotericin B injection), patients should be observed closely for development of hypokalemia. There is also an increased risk of hypokalemia with concurrent use of corticosteroids with amphotericin B, xanthenes, or beta2 agonists. There have been cases reported in which concomitant use of amphotericin B and hydrocortisone was followed by cardiac enlargement and congestive heart failure. |
| Vaccines | Patients on prolonged corticosteroid therapy may exhibit a diminished response to toxoids and live or attenuated vaccines due to inhibition of antibody response. Corticosteroids may also potentiate the replication of some organisms contained in live attenuated vaccines. Routine administration of vaccines or toxoids should be deferred until corticosteroid therapy is discontinued if possible (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Immune, Vaccinations). |
Drug-Food Interactions
Grapefruit juice is a CYP3A4 inhibitor. See DRUG INTERACTIONS, CYP3A4 INHIBITORS above.
Drug-Laboratory Interactions
Corticosteroids may suppress reactions to skin tests.
Drug-Lifestyle Interactions
Dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances and fatigue are possible side effects associated with corticosteroid use. If affected, patients should not drive or operate machinery.
Dosage And Administration
Dosing Considerations
DEPO-MEDROL is available in two formulations, one containing benzyl alcohol as preservative and the other containing myristyl gamma picolinium chloride (MGPC).
DEPO-MEDROL with benzyl alcohol is suitable for multidose use. However, multidose use of DEPO-MEDROL is not recommended for intra-synovial injection.
Multidose use of DEPO-MEDROL with benzyl alcohol requires special care to avoid contamination. Although initially sterile, any multidose use of vials may lead to contamination unless strict aseptic technique is observed. Particular care, such as use of disposable sterile syringes and needles is necessary. When multidose vials are used, special care to prevent contamination of the contents is essential. A povidone-iodine solution or similar product is recommended to cleanse the vial top prior to aspiration of contents.
DEPO-MEDROL with MGPC is not suitable for multidose use. Following administration of the desired dose, any remaining suspension should be discarded.
Because of possible physical incompatibilities, DEPO-MEDROL should not be diluted or mixed with other solutions. Parenteral suspensions should be inspected visually for foreign particulate matter and discolouration prior to administration whenever drug product and container permit.
In order to minimize the incidence of dermal and subdermal atrophy, care must be exercised not to exceed recommended doses in injections. Multiple small injections into the area of the lesion should be made whenever possible. The technique of intra-synovial and intramuscular injection should include precautions against injection or leakage into the dermis. Injection into the deltoid muscle should be avoided because of a high incidence of subcutaneous atrophy.
Caution must be used in renal insufficiency, hypertension, osteoporosis and myasthenia gravis, when steroids are used as direct or adjunctive therapy.
Dosage adjustments may be required based on the following:
- during remission
- exacerbation of the disease process
- the patient’s individual response to therapy
- upon exposure of the patient to emotional or physical stress such as serious infection, surgery or injury. DEPO-MEDROL dosage may need to be increased during and after the stressful situation.
Geriatrics:
In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, increased risk for osteoporosis and fluid retention (with possible resultant hypertension) and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustments
A. ADMINISTRATION FOR LOCAL EFFECT
Although administration of DEPO-MEDROL may ameliorate symptoms, it is not a cure and the hormone has no effect on the cause of the inflammation. Hormone therapy should be used as an adjunct to conventional therapy.
- 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. In chronic cases, injections may be repeated at intervals ranging from one to five or more weeks depending upon the degree of relief obtained from the initial injection. The doses in the following table are given as a general guide:Size of Joint Examples Range of Dosage Large Knees
Ankles
Shoulders20 to 80 mg Medium Elbows
Wrists10 to 40 mg Small Metacarpophalangeal
Interphalangeal
Sternoclavicular
Acromioclavicular4 to 10 mg
Procedure: It is recommended that the anatomy of the joint involved be reviewed before attempting intra-articular injection. In order to obtain the full anti-inflammatory effect it is important that the injection be made into the synovial space. Employing the same sterile technique as for a lumbar puncture, a sterile 20 to 24 gauge needle (on a dry syringe) is quickly inserted into the synovial cavity. Procaine infiltration is elective. The aspiration of only a few drops of joint fluid proves the joint space has been entered by the needle.
The injection site for each joint is determined by that location where the synovial cavity is most superficial and most free of large vessels and nerves. With the needle in place, the aspirating syringe is removed and replaced by a second syringe containing the desired amount of DEPO-MEDROL. The plunger is then pulled outward slightly to aspirate synovial fluid and to make sure the needle is still in the synovial space. After injection, the joint is moved gently a few times to aid mixing of synovial fluid and the suspension. The site is covered with a small sterile dressing.
Suitable sites for intra-articular injection are the knee, ankle, wrist, elbow, shoulder, phalangeal, and hip joints. Since difficulty is occasionally encountered in entering the hip joint, precautions should be taken to avoid any large blood vessels in the area. Joints not suitable for injection are those that are anatomically inaccessible such as the spinal joints and those like the sacroiliac joints that are devoid of synovial space. Treatment failures are most frequently the result of failure to enter the joint space. Little or no benefit follows injection into surrounding tissue. If treatment failures occur even when injections into the synovial spaces have been confirmed by aspiration of fluid, repeated injections are usually futile.
Following intra-articular steroid therapy, care should be taken to avoid overuse of joints in which symptomatic benefit has been obtained. Negligence in this matter may permit an increase in joint deterioration that will more than offset the beneficial effects of the steroid.
Unstable joints should not be injected (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Repeated intra-articular injection may in some cases result in instability of the joint. X-ray follow-up is suggested in selected cases to detect deterioration.
If a local anesthetic is used prior to the injection of DEPO-MEDROL, the anesthetic package insert should be read carefully and all the precautions observed.
Bursitis
The area around the injection site is prepared in a sterile way and a wheal at the site made with 1 percent procaine hydrochloride solution. A 20 to 24 gauge needle attached to a dry syringe is inserted into the bursa and the fluid aspirated. The needle is left in place and the aspirating syringe changed for a small syringe containing the desired dose. After injection, the needle is withdrawn and a small dressing applied.
Miscellaneous: Ganglion, Tendinitis, Epicondylitis
In the treatment of conditions such as tendinitis or tenosynovitis, care should be taken, to inject the suspension into the tendon sheath rather than into the substance of the tendon. The tendon may be readily palpated when placed on a stretch. When treating conditions such as epicondylitis, the area of greatest tenderness should be outlined carefully and the suspension infiltrated into the area. For ganglia of the tendon sheaths, the suspension is injected directly into the cyst. In many cases, a single injection causes a marked decrease in the size of the cystic tumor and may effect disappearance.
Sterile precautions should be observed with each injection.
The dose in the treatment of the various conditions of the tendinous or bursal structures listed above varies with the condition being treated and ranges from 4 to 30 mg. In recurrent or chronic conditions, repeated injections may be necessary.
Injections for Local Effect in Dermatologic Conditions
Following cleansing with an appropriate antiseptic such as 70% alcohol, 20 to 60 mg of DEPO-MEDROL is injected into the lesion.
It may be necessary to distribute doses ranging from 20 to 40 mg by repeated local injections in the case of large lesions. Care should be taken to avoid injection of sufficient material to cause blanching since this may be followed by a small slough. 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.
B. ADMINISTRATION FOR SYSTEMIC EFFECT
The intramuscular dosage will vary with the condition being treated. When a prolonged effect is desired, the weekly dose may be calculated by multiplying the daily oral dose by 7 and given as a single intramuscular injection.
Dosage must be individualized according to the severity of the disease and response of the patient. For infants and children, the recommended dosage will have to be reduced, but dosage should be governed by the severity of the condition rather than by strict adherence to the ratio indicated by age or body weight.
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 G.I. X-rays are desirable in patients with an ulcer history or significant dyspepsia.
If signs of stress are associated with the condition being treated, the dosage of the suspension should be increased. If a rapid hormonal effect of maximum intensity is required, the intravenous administration of highly soluble methylprednisolone sodium succinate is indicated.
| Condition | Dose | Comments |
| adrenogenital syndrome | a single intramuscular injection of 40 mg every two weeks may be adequate. | |
| rheumatoid arthritis | weekly intramuscular dose will vary from 40 to 120 mg for maintenance patients | |
| dermatologic lesions benefited by systemic corticoid therapy | 40 to 120 mg intramuscularly at weekly intervals for one to four weeks | |
| acute severe dermatitis due to poison ivy | intramuscular administration of a single dose of 80 to 120 mg | relief may result within 8 to 12 hours |
| chronic contact dermatitis | repeated injections (40 to 120 mg intramuscularly) at 5 to 10 day intervals may be necessary | |
| seborrheic dermatitis | weekly dose of 80 mg | may be adequate to control the condition |
| asthmatic patients | intramuscular administration of 80 to 120 mg | relief may result within 6 to 48 hours and persist for several days to two weeks |
Overdosage
Treatment of acute overdosage is by supportive and symptomatic therapy. For chronic overdosage in the face of severe disease requiring continuous steroid therapy, the dosage of corticosteroid may be reduced only temporarily.
Methylprednisolone is dialyzable.
For management of a suspected drug overdose, contact your regional Poison Control Centre.
Action And Clinical Pharmacology
DEPO-MEDROL is a sterile aqueous suspension of the synthetic glucocorticoid methylprednisolone acetate. It has a strong and prolonged anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-allergic activity. DEPO-MEDROL can be administered I.M. for a prolonged systemic activity as well as In Situ for a local treatment. The prolonged activity of DEPO-MEDROL is explained by the slow release of the active substance.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: One in-house study of eight volunteers determined the pharmacokinetics of a single 40 mg intramuscular dose of Depo-Medrol. The average of the individual peak plasma concentrations was 14.8 ± 8.6 ng/mL, the average of the individual peak times (tmax) was 7.25 ± 1.04 hours, and the average area under the curve (AUC) was 1354.2 ± 424.1 ng/mL x hrs (Day 1-21).
Distribution: Methylprednisolone is widely distributed into the tissues, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and is secreted in breast milk. Its apparent volume of distribution is approximately 1.4 L/kg. The plasma protein binding of methylprednisolone in humans is approximately 77%.
Metabolism: In humans, methylprednisolone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites; the major ones are 20α-hydroxymethylprednisolone and 20β-hydroxymethylprednisolone. Metabolism in the liver occurs primarily via the CYP3A4. (For a list of drug interactions based on CYP3A4- mediated metabolism, see DRUG INTERACTIONS).
Methylprednisolone, like many CYP3A4 substrates, may also be a substrate for the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transport protein p-glycoprotein, influencing tissue distribution and interactions with other medicines modulated by P-gp.
Excretion: The mean elimination half-life for total methylprednisolone is in the range of 1.8 to 5.2 hours. Total clearance is approximately 5 to 6 mL/min/kg.
Storage And Stability
Benzyl alcohol formulation: Store at controlled room temperature (15°C to 30°C). Protect from freezing.
MGPC formulation: Store between 20ºC to 25ºC, excursions permitted between 15ºC-30ºC. Protect from freezing.
Keep in a safe place out of the reach and sight of children.
Dosage Forms, Composition And Packaging
DEPO-MEDROL is available in two formulations, one containing benzyl alcohol as preservative and the other containing myristyl gamma picolinium chloride (MGPC).
The DEPO-MEDROL containing benzyl alcohol is available in the following formats:
20 mg/mL, supplied in 5 mL vials and packaged in cartons of 1.
40 mg/mL, supplied in 2 mL and 5 mL vials and packaged in cartons of 5.
80 mg/mL, supplied in 5 mL vials and packaged in cartons of 1.
Each mL of these preparations contains:
| Methylprednisolone acetate | 20 mg | 40 mg | 80 mg |
| Polyethylene Glycol 3350 | 29.5 mg | 29.1 mg | 28.2 mg |
| Polysorbate 80 | 1.97 mg | 1.94 mg | 1.88 mg |
| Monobasic Sodium Phosphate | 6.9 mg | 6.8 mg | 6.59 mg |
| Dibasic Sodium Phosphate | 1.44 mg | 1.42 mg | 1.37 mg |
| Benzyl Alcohol added as preservative | 9.3 mg | 9.16 mg | 8.88 mg |
| Sodium Chloride added to adjust tonicity | 1.4 mg | 1.4 mg | 1.4 mg |
The DEPO-MEDROL containing myristyl gamma picolinium chloride (MGPC) is available in the following formats:
40 mg/mL, supplied in 1 mL vials and packaged in cartons of 10.
80 mg/mL, supplied in 1 mL vials and packaged in cartons of 5.
Each mL of this preparation contains:
| Methylprednisolone acetate | 40 mg | 80 mg |
| Polyethylene Glycol 3350 | 29 mg | 28 mg |
| Myristyl gamma picolinium chloride | 0.19 mg | 0.19 mg |
| Sodium Chloride added to adjust tonicity | 9.0 mg | 9.0 mg |
When necessary, pH of both DEPO-MEDROL formulations was adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid. The pH of the finished product remains within the USP specified range i.e. 3.5 to 7.0.
Control #: 245381
4 February 2021
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