methylprednisolone - solu-medrol

Question 1

drug classification

Answer 1

corticosteroid, anti-inflammatory

Question 2

mechanism of action

Answer 2

diffuses across the cell membrane of various cells present in all tissues, binds to DNA, regulates gene expression and increases synthesis of proteins and enzymes that inhibit inflammatory agents (cytokines, interleukin, interferon). inhibit synthesis of pro- inflammatory enzymes
* is an immunosuppressant*

Question 3

onset of action

Answer 3

2-6 h

Question 4

peak

Answer 4

4-8 days

Question 5

duration

Answer 5

1-5 weeks

Question 6

half life

Answer 6

3.5 h

Question 7

indications, field use

Answer 7

allergic reaction/anaphylaxis

asthma, COPD

Question 8

contraindications

Answer 8

none in ems

Question 9

side effects, adverse reactions

Answer 9

fluid retention, CHF, HTN, abdominal distention, vertigo, headache, nausea, malaise, hiccups

Question 10

dose adult

Answer 10

125 mg slow IV, IO

Question 11

dose pedi

Answer 11

2mg/kg slow IV,IO. max dose of 125 mg

Question 12

precautions

Answer 12

give only one dose prehospitaly, long term steroid use can cause GI bleeding,
prolonged would healing
and suppression of adrenocortical steroids

Question 13

drug on drug interactions

Answer 13

lasix and thiazide diuretics increase potassium excretion,

decreased effect with phenytoin, phenobarbital, and rifampin due to increased metabolism of steroids