DEPOPIN 80 INJ

DEPOPIN 80 INJ is a methylprednisolone injectable preparation formulated for parenteral administration. Methylprednisolone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-allergic properties. Depot or injectable methylprednisolone preparations are used where rapid, effective control of inflammation or allergic/inflammatory conditions is required and when oral therapy is not suitable or needs to be supplemented by parenteral dosing. The product is intended for use under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Therapeutic uses / indications
Methylprednisolone injections are used in a range of acute and chronic inflammatory, allergic and autoimmune conditions where systemic corticosteroid therapy is indicated. Typical clinical situations include severe allergic reactions, exacerbations of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute rheumatologic flares, certain dermatologic and ophthalmic inflammatory conditions, and as short-term control of severe inflammatory disease before switching to or alongside oral therapy. Intra-articular or soft-tissue injection may be used for local inflammatory conditions when appropriate. Use only as directed by a clinician.

Mechanism of action
Methylprednisolone binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and modulates gene expression to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, inhibit leukocyte migration and suppress immune system activity. These effects reduce inflammation, oedema and allergic responses.

Dosage and administration
DEPOPIN 80 INJ must be administered only by a healthcare professional trained in parenteral injections. The dose, route (intramuscular, intra-articular, intralesional or intravenous where indicated) and frequency are determined by the treating physician according to the condition being treated, severity, patient weight, age and comorbidities. Depot formulations may be given less frequently than soluble preparations; therefore follow prescriber instructions precisely. Do not self-inject unless explicitly instructed and trained to do so.

Contraindications and precautions
Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation. Avoid in systemic fungal infections and in patients receiving live virus vaccines. Use with caution in patients with uncontrolled infections, latent tuberculosis, peptic ulcer disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, heart failure, severe renal or hepatic impairment, osteoporosis, psychiatric disorders, or a history of steroid-related adverse effects. Prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy may suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis; abrupt withdrawal after prolonged use can precipitate adrenal insufficiency — tapering under medical supervision is required.

Adverse effects and safety information
Adverse effects depend on dose and duration. Short-term parenteral use can cause hyperglycaemia, fluid retention, hypertension, increased appetite, mood changes or insomnia. Repeated or long-term use may increase risk of immunosuppression and infections, osteoporosis, adrenal suppression, Cushingoid features, peptic ulceration, impaired wound healing, glaucoma/cataract, and growth suppression in children. Neuropsychiatric effects (agitation, mood changes, psychosis) can occur; discontinue and seek help if severe psychiatric symptoms develop. Local injection may cause pain, injection-site atrophy, tendon weakening or infection if asepsis is not maintained.

Drug interactions
Methylprednisolone can interact with many agents. Concomitant use with live vaccines is contraindicated. Enzyme-inducing drugs (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, carbamazepine) may reduce corticosteroid levels; CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., some antifungals, certain antibiotics) may increase steroid exposure. Concomitant use with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increases risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Anticoagulant effects of warfarin may be potentiated or inhibited; monitor INR. Inform the prescriber of all medicines, supplements and herbal products.

Use in pregnancy and lactation
Use in pregnancy only if clearly necessary and when benefits outweigh potential risks. Prolonged or repeated high doses in pregnancy may be associated with maternal or fetal effects; consult obstetric guidance. Small amounts may be excreted in breast milk; breastfeeding mothers should discuss risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

Special warnings
Monitor for signs of infection; corticosteroids may mask typical signs of infection. In patients with diabetes, monitor blood glucose closely. If an intercurrent illness, injury or surgery occurs while on corticosteroids, additional (stress) dosing may be required — liaise with treating physician. Repeated intra-articular injections should be limited to avoid joint damage.

Storage
Store as per the product label — typically at controlled room temperature, protected from light. Keep the vial sealed until use. Dispose of any opened or unused parenteral product safely according to local regulations. Keep out of reach of children.

When to consult a healthcare professional
Seek immediate medical attention for signs of severe infection, severe allergic reaction, sudden vision changes, severe abdominal pain, signs of adrenal insufficiency (severe weakness, dizziness, low blood pressure), or neuropsychiatric symptoms. Discuss any concerns about long-term corticosteroid use with your physician.