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Overview: Metopirone is used to check to see how well your body’s stress hormone system is working. Common side effects include low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort or pain, headache, rash, and certain blood disorders. Serious side effects are less likely. Metopirone can make you dizzy or sleepy. You should not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until these effects are gone.

Uses

What is Metopirone used for?

Metopirone (metyrapone) is commonly used to diagnose reduced adrenal function (adrenal insufficiency).

Metopirone may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does Metopirone work (mechanism of action)?

Metopirone blocks the production of cortisol (the stress hormone) in your adrenal glands. As a result, your body produces increased amounts of other hormones, some of which can be used to measure the responsiveness of your hormonal system. This can help your health care providers diagnose adrenal insufficiency.

How is Metopirone supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Metopirone

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 250 mg oral capsules

How should I store Metopirone?

Metopirone should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect from heat and moisture.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Metopirone?

The most common side effects of Metopirone are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Low blood pressure
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach discomfort or pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness and sleepiness (see below)
  • Rash
  • Blood disorders, such as anemia, low white blood cell, and low platelet levels

There may be other side effects of Metopirone that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Metopirone?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Metopirone are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Metopirone may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking Metopirone and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Dizziness and Sleepiness. Metopirone can make you dizzy or sleepy. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until these effects have passed.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Metopirone?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take Metopirone.

  • Metopirone
  • Metyrapone
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific Metopirone products they stock.

Adrenal Insufficiency. People with known adrenal insufficiency (reduced adrenal function) should not take Metopirone.

What should I know about Metopirone before using it?

Do not take Metopirone unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Take it as prescribed.

Do not share Metopirone with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Metopirone out of the reach of children.

Your health care provider may provide specific instructions on when and how to take Metopirone. You may also be scheduled for a blood test the following day. Follow the instructions carefully and keep any appointment you make with your health care provider.

Metopirone can affect your alertness or coordination. Do not drive or do other activities that require alertness or coordination until these effects are gone.

What should I tell my health care provider before using Metopirone?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if Metopirone is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Metopirone may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking Metopirone, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Metopirone could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Metopirone while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Metopirone passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take Metopirone while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Metopirone?

For more information about Metopirone, you can visit the drugmaker’s website at www.metopirone.com or call them at 844-597-6373.

Interactions

Does Metopirone interact with foods or drinks?

Metopirone should be taken with milk, yogurt, or a snack.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Metopirone, but the risk of dizziness and sleepiness may be increased if you drink alcohol with Metopirone.

Does Metopirone interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking Metopirone.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol), which is a medicine used for pain or fever
  • Cyproheptadine (Periactin), which is a medicine used for allergies
  • Estrogen, which is found in certain birth control pills, patches, creams, rings, or vaginal suppositories
  • Methimazole or propylthiouracil, which is a medicine to lower thyroid hormone levels
  • Any medicine for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital
  • An antidepressant, antipsychotic, or anxiety medicine, which is used for certain mental health conditions 
  • A corticosteroid, such as dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, which is a medicine for certain inflammatory conditions

This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with Metopirone. Always check with your health care provider.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Metopirone?

If you or someone else has used too much Metopirone, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Metopirone?

Metopirone is usually taken once at a specific time. If you forget to take Metopirone, contact your health care provider and follow their instructions.