Synonyms
Depo-medrol M-Predrol Depo-Medrate
Molecular Formula
C24H32O6
Smiles
C[C@H]1C[C@H]2[C@@H]3CC[C@@]([C@]3(C[C@@H]([C@@H]2[C@@]4(C1=CC(=O)C=C4)C)O)C)(C(=O)COC(=O)C)O
Appearance
White to off-white solid
Melting Point
>220℃ (dec.)
Boiling Point
582.5±50.0℃ at 760 mmHg
General Description
Methylprednisolone acetate is a synthetic glucocorticoid corticosteroid, specifically the 6-methyl derivative of prednisolone, formulated as the acetate salt. The acetate salt form provides a depot preparation, resulting in a slow, sustained release of the active hormone from the injection site, which significantly prolongs its duration of action compared to more soluble esters like the sodium succinate.
Mechanism of Action
Methylprednisolone acetate is a prodrug that exerts its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects after being hydrolyzed in vivo to its active form, methylprednisolone. As a glucocorticoid receptor agonist, it diffuses across cell membranes and binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors. The activated receptor-ligand complex then translocates to the nucleus to modulate gene expression.
Application
Methylprednisolone acetate injectable suspension is indicated for use when oral corticosteroid therapy is not feasible. It is employed for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects across a wide spectrum of disorders, either systemically via IM injection or locally via targeted injection.
In a study reported by Patton JB et al., NSG mice were infected with third-stage larvae and subsequently treated for six weeks with methylprednisolone acetate (MPA), a synthetic glucocorticoid. Administration of Δ7-dafachronic acid, an agonist of the parasitic nuclear receptor Ss-DAF-12, led to a significant reduction in parasite burden in MPA-treated mice undergoing hyperinfection with Strongyloides stercoralis.
Fig. 1 Effect of methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) treatment on NSG mice infected with Strongyloides stercoralis. (Patton JB, et al., 2018)
References
- Patton JB, et al. Methylprednisolone acetate induces, and Δ7-dafachronic acid suppresses, Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection in NSG mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2018, 115(1):204-209.
In a prospective, observational study reported by Nguyen DT et al, subcutaneous injection of methylprednisolone acetate combined with lidocaine was evaluated as a treatment for refractory postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). At 4 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months post-treatment, patients experienced significant reductions in pain (P < .001), along with marked improvement across all eight domains of health-related quality of life. No major adverse events related to the subcutaneous injection were observed.
Fig. 2 Pain severity of study population before and after treatment. (Nguyen DT, et al, 2021)
References
- Nguyen DT, et al. The effect of subcutaneous injection of methylprednisolone acetate and lidocaine for refractory postherpetic neuralgia: a prospective, observational study. Health Sci Rep. 2021, 4(2):e271.
Is Methylprednisolone Acetate susceptible to hydrolysis?
As an ester, it can hydrolyze back to the parent alcohol under extreme conditions. We control water content in the packaging and recommend storage away from moisture and extreme pH to prevent this.
What is the typical particle size for the micronized form of Methylprednisolone Acetate used in suspensions?
For injectable suspensions, we offer a micronized grade, ensuring proper syringeability and bioavailability.
How can I request a formal quotation for Methylprednisolone Acetate?
Please email our sales team with your required quantity, target price, and desired grade (micronized vs. non-micronized) to receive a formal quote.
Do you offer custom packaging sizes for Methylprednisolone Acetate?
Yes, while standard packaging is in multilayer bags within fiber drums, we can accommodate requests for smaller, aliquot sizes for R&D purposes or specific production batch sizes.