Depo-Medrol

(Methylprednisolone Acetate)

The active ingredient in Depo-Medrol is methylprednisolone acetate. It is a corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory effects and calms an overactive immune response. It works by decreasing the release of substances in the body that cause swelling, redness, and pain, and by suppressing immune system activity when it is contributing to disease. Naturally occurring glucocorticoids include hydrocortisone and cortisone.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, and patient information, before using Depo-Medrol. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Depo-Medrol:

• Depo-Medrol is administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-injected.
• It may be given by intramuscular, intra-articular (into a joint), intralesional (into a lesion), or soft tissue injection, depending on the condition being treated. Depo-Medrol is not for intravenous or intrathecal use.
• The dose and frequency depend on the medical condition, severity of symptoms, and patient response.
• Depo-Medrol may be supplied as a single-dose or multidose vial.

Some mild or common side effects of Depo-Medrol include:

• Weight gain or increased appetite.
• Fluid retention or swelling.
• Increased blood pressure.
• Mood changes or nervousness.
• Injection site pain or redness.
• Elevated blood sugar levels.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Depo-Medrol. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or a persistent sore throat.
• Severe allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face, or trouble breathing.
• Severe stomach pain, black stools, or signs of a peptic ulcer or perforation.
• Vision changes, cataracts, or glaucoma.
• Muscle weakness or symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.
• Severe mood changes, confusion, or depression.
• Kaposi’s sarcoma (a certain type of cancer).
• Cushing’s syndrome (adrenal gland problem).

These are not all of the possible side effects of Depo-Medrol. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Depo-Medrol, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Current or past fungal infections or signs of infection.
• High blood pressure (hypertension) or congestive heart failure.
• Osteoporosis or a history of bone fractures.
• Diabetes or thyroid disorders.
• Liver disease, such as cirrhosis.
• Peptic ulcer disease or diverticulitis.
• Myasthenia gravis or other nervous system disorders.
• A history of cataracts or glaucoma.
• Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Boxed Warning

• Depo-Medrol contains benzyl alcohol, which has been associated with serious adverse reactions in neonates and infants.

• If you have a systemic fungal infection.
• If you have a known hypersensitivity to methylprednisolone or any component of the formulation.

Depo-Medrol may begin to relieve inflammation and symptoms within hours to days after injection. The duration of effect varies depending on the dose, route of administration, and condition being treated, with some effects lasting days to weeks.

When Depo-Medrol is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding.
• Ketoconazole or macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin may increase corticosteroid levels.
• Cyclosporine may increase the risk of seizures or other side effects.
• Carbamazepine may reduce corticosteroid effectiveness.
• Amphotericin B may increase the risk of electrolyte imbalances.
• Anticoagulants, which may have altered effects on blood clotting.
• Other corticosteroids, such as prednisolone or prednisone.
• Live vaccines like the measles or varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

Depo-Medrol is available in 20 mg/mL, 40 mg/mL, and 80 mg/mL injectable suspensions.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Depo-Medrol is manufactured by Pfizer.

Yes. Generic versions containing methylprednisolone acetate are available.

Depo-Medrol injections are administered by a healthcare professional. If repeated doses are required, your healthcare provider will determine when and how to stop treatment. Do not discontinue corticosteroid therapy abruptly without medical advice, as this may cause adrenal insufficiency.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. Corticosteroids may be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. Small amounts of corticosteroids may pass into breast milk, and your healthcare provider will help determine what is best for you and your baby.