Medrol

Generic name: Methylprednisolone

What is Medrol?

Medrol is a steroid medication called a "glucocorticoid" that mimics the action of hormones that naturally occur in your body. These hormones have a variety of effects, including a reduction of inflammation and suppression of the immune system.

Medrol is used to treat certain glandular disorders, rheumatic diseases, collagen diseases, skin conditions, allergic states, diseases of the eye, lung diseases, blood disorders, certain types of cancer, fluid disorders in certain types of kidney dysfunction, certain intestinal diseases, multiple sclerosis, specific parasitic diseases, and tuberculous meningitis.

What is the most important information I should know about Medrol?

You should not receive any live vaccines while taking Medrol.

Medrol can mask the signs and symptoms of mild to severe infections in your body. Inform your doctor if you develop any type of infection before, during, or after taking Medrol.

When taking Medrol you should avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles. If you think you were exposed while taking Medrol, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Taking Medrol for a prolonged period of time may increase your risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma, or optic nerve damage.

Medrol may increase your body's ability to retain salt and water, which can increase your blood pressure.

Medrol may increase the rate at which potassium and calcium are eliminated from your body, which your doctor may want to monitor.

Use Medrol with caution if you have active or latent tuberculosis, a herpes simplex infection of the eye, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, or myasthenia gravis.

You should not abruptly stop taking Medrol. Discontinuation requires a dosage reduction over time to avoid potentially serious side effects, especially in patients who have been taking it for a long time.

Medrol can worsen or initiate mental instabilities such as depression, euphoria, mood swings, insomnia, and personality changes.

Who should not take Medrol?

You should not take Medrol if you have a systemic infection caused by a fungus or you are allergic or sensitive to Medrol.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Medrol?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Medrol. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have an infection, liver disease, tuberculosis, glaucoma, cataracts, stomach ulcers, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, diabetes, or hypothyroidism.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The initial dosage can range from 4 to 48 milligrams (mg) daily depending on the condition for which you are being treated. Your doctor may also tell you to take a certain dosage of Medrol in the morning every other day to avoid potential side effects.

How should I take Medrol?

Medrol can be taken with or without food, and should be taken at the same time every day, preferably in the morning. Do not abruptly stop taking Medrol. Your doctor will tell you how to slowly stop taking it if you need to.

What should I avoid while taking Medrol?

You should not receive any live vaccines while taking Medrol. Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Medrol?

If Medrol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Medrol with the following: anticoagulant medications, aspirin, cyclosporine, ketoconazole, phenobarbital, rifampin, phenytoin, or toleandomycin.

What are the possible side effects of Medrol?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: salt retention, congestive heart failure in certain patients, high blood pressure, water retention, potassium loss, muscle weakness, loss of muscle mass, osteoporosis, tendon rupture (particularly of the Achilles tendon), vertebral compression fractures, stomach ulcers, inflammation of the pancreas, bloating, ulcers of the throat, liver injury, impaired wound healing, bruising, thin fragile skin, facial redness, increased sweating, convulsions, dizziness, headache, development of a hormonal disorder called a "Cushingoid state," suppression of growth in children, menstrual irregularities, decreased carbohydrate tolerance, manifestations of diabetes mellitus, increased requirements of insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics, cataracts, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, bulging of the eyes, itching and other allergic, anaphylactic, or hypersensitivity reactions.

Can I receive Medrol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Medrol during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

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

If you miss a dose, do not double your next one. Skip the dose you missed and return to your normal dosing schedule.

How should I store Medrol?

Store at room temperature.