Product image of Metopirone (Metyrapone) supplied by GNH India

Metopirone

Active Ingredient:
Metyrapone
Origin:
EU

Metopirone (Metyrapone)

Metyrapone, the active ingredient in Metopirone, is a cortisol synthesis inhibitor presented as an oral formulation for oral use. It is employed in diagnostic testing of adrenal insufficiency and in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome.
GNH India supplies Metopirone as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Manufacturer / TM Owner

Hra Pharma Rare Diseases

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Indications & Clinical Uses

Metopirone acts on adrenal cortisol production pathways and is used in specific endocrine evaluations and therapies.

  • Adrenal insufficiency (diagnostic testing): helps assess adrenal reserve by measuring cortisol response after inhibition.
  • Cushing's syndrome (treatment): reduces excess cortisol production in patients with endogenous hypercortisolism.
  • Hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal axis evaluation: assists in distinguishing ACTH‑dependent from ACTH‑independent disorders.

How It Works

  • Metyrapone selectively inhibits the enzyme 11‑beta‑hydroxylase (CYP11B1) in the adrenal cortex, blocking the final step of cortisol synthesis. This results in decreased cortisol output and a compensatory rise in upstream steroid precursors, which can be measured to evaluate adrenal function or to lower cortisol levels in hypercortisolism.

Side Effects

Metyrapone may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑related and reversible.

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Mild hypertension

Serious or Rare Side Effects

  • Acute adrenal insufficiency
  • Severe hypertension or hypertensive crisis
  • Hypokalemia
  • Allergic skin reactions (rash, urticaria)
  • Hepatic enzyme elevation

Precautions & Warnings

Before initiating Metopirone, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

  • Monitor cortisol levels: assess endocrine response regularly.
  • Check electrolytes: watch for potassium disturbances.
  • Observe blood pressure: hypertension may develop.
  • Evaluate liver function: use cautiously in hepatic impairment.
  • Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to metyrapone.
  • Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture.

Avoid Interactions

Metyrapone can alter the metabolism of several co‑administered drugs.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

  • Ketoconazole: both inhibit steroidogenesis and may cause severe adrenal suppression.
  • Rifampin: strong enzyme inducer that reduces metyrapone efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

  • Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine): may lower plasma levels.
  • Oral contraceptives: metyrapone can decrease steroid hormone concentrations.
  • Glucocorticoid replacement therapy: dose adjustments may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Metopirone (metyrapone) is used primarily for diagnostic testing of adrenal insufficiency and for the medical management of Cushing's syndrome, where it helps evaluate adrenal reserve and lower excess cortisol production.

Metyrapone inhibits the enzyme 11‑beta‑hydroxylase in the adrenal cortex, blocking the final step of cortisol synthesis. This reduces cortisol output and leads to accumulation of precursor steroids, which can be measured for diagnostic purposes or used to control hypercortisolism.

The dose of Metopirone is individualized and set by the prescribing clinician based on the specific indication, patient weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to therapy. No standard dosing regimen is provided here.

Safety data for metyrapone in pregnancy and lactation are limited. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant, and the decision must be made by the treating physician.

To order Metopirone, submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com with the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details and any necessary import documentation.

Compared with other cortisol synthesis inhibitors such as ketoconazole, metyrapone offers a more selective inhibition of 11‑beta‑hydroxylase and is often preferred for diagnostic testing. However, therapeutic choices depend on the clinical scenario, side‑effect profile, and physician experience.

Metopirone should be stored at room temperature, below 25 °C, in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and light. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Metopirone is taken orally, usually with water. The exact timing relative to meals and other medications is determined by the prescribing clinician to optimise absorption and therapeutic effect.

Serious risks include acute adrenal insufficiency, severe hypertension, hypokalemia, allergic reactions, and potential liver enzyme elevations. Patients should be monitored closely for these events, especially during dose adjustments.

Metopirone is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to metyrapone, in patients with uncontrolled hypertension, and in those with severe hepatic impairment unless the benefits outweigh the risks as judged by a physician.

Published by

GNH India Pharmaceuticals Limited

Licensed pharmaceutical supplier

Last updated:

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