Neemsi Paramedic Pharmacology - Methylprednisolone

Front 1

What is the best-known trade name for methylprednisolone?

Back 1

Solu-Medrol

Hint 1

Another brand name is Medrol.

Front 2

What is the functional class of methylprednisolone?

Back 2

Corticosteroid

Hint 2

More specifically, methylprednisolone is a glucocorticoid.

Front 3

What is the mechanism of action of methylprednisolone?

Back 3

Intermediate-acting, synthetic adrenal corticosteroid. Decreases inflammation by reversing increased capillary permeability. This suppresses the migration of leukocytes and fibroblasts to the site of injury. Methylprednisolone also stabilizes lysosomes.

Hint 3

Glucocorticoids also inhibit the release of prostaglandins, leukotrienes and cyclooxygenase.

Front 4

What are the listed indications for methylprednisolone?

Back 4

Severe asthma, anaphylaxis or COPD.

Hint 4

In the non-emergency setting, methylprednisolone is also used for the the treatment of autoimmune diseases such systemic lupus erythematosus and as a treatment for multiple sclerosis.

Front 5

What are the listed contraindications for methylprednisolone?

Back 5

None in the management of anaphylaxis

Hint 5

When not treating life-threatening conditions, methylprednisolone is contraindicated for patients with a rectent history of certain infections such as varicella and rubeola (measles).

Front 6

What are the listed precautions for methylprednisolone?

Back 6

Patients with peptic ulcer disease, CHF, and TB.

Hint 6

Many sources add active infections, existing immunosuppression and many chronic disorders as precautions.

Front 7

What are the listed side effects for methylprednisolone?

Back 7

- Hypertension
- CHF
- Delayed wound healing
- Hyperglycemia
- Hypokalemia
- Headache
- Peptic ulcer
- Circulatory collapse
- N/V
- CNS depression

Hint 7

The most significant side-effects of methylprednisolone occur with chronic usage as it stops the natural production of cortisol, allowing for an Addisonian crisis if the methylprednisolone is suddenly stopped.

Front 8

What are the listed interactions for methylprednisolone?

Back 8

Use caution in patients on salicylates, phenytoin, rifampin, theophylline, furosemide, and thiazide diuretics.

Hint 8

Caution should also be exercised with patients who have recently received a vaccination.

Front 9

What is the dosage and route of methylprednisolone?

Back 9

Adult:
- 125-250mg IVP/IM

Pediatric:
- 1mg/kg IVP

Hint 9

NH dosing is 62.5mg for adults and 1mg/kg (max of 62.5mg) for pediatrics.