Methylprednisolone Acetate

Pronounced

"METH-ull-pred-NISS-oh-lone"

Common brand names:

Depo-Medrol

Uses

Methylprednisolone is used to treat pain and swelling that occurs with arthritis and other joint disorders. This medication may also be used to treat various conditions such as blood disorders, severe allergic reactions, certain cancers, eye conditions, skin/intestinal/kidney/lung diseases, and immune system disorders. It decreases your immune system's response to these conditions and reduces symptoms such as swelling, pain, and allergic-type reactions. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of methylprednisolone, especially if it is to be injected near your spine (epidural). Rare but serious side effects may occur with epidural use. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid hormone.

Methylprednisolone may also be used with other medications in hormone disorders.

How to Use This Medication

Shake this medication well before using. This medication is usually injected into a joint as directed by your doctor. Methylprednisolone may also be injected into a muscle or into abnormal skin tissue. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often than prescribed without consulting your doctor. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. This medication should appear milky white. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

If this medication is injected into a joint, be careful how much pressure you put on that joint, even if it is feeling better. Ask your doctor how much you can move/use the joint while it is healing.

Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used methylprednisolone for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal. See also Precautions section.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

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Information expires December 2024.