Medrol

The active ingredient in Medrol is methylprednisolone, which is a corticosteroid. It is a lab-created drug that is identical to cortisol, your body's natural stress hormone. Methylprednisolone works by calming your immune reaction, which can aid in the treatment of some medical conditions caused by a sensitive immune system. In addition, methylprednisolone (Medrol) reduces the production of inflammatory molecules that cause pain, redness, itching, and swelling.

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

• Medrol can be taken in a variety of ways. Follow your doctor's dosing recommendations carefully.
• Your dosage requirements may change if you experience unusual stress, such as a significant illness, fever, or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Inform your doctor about any such circumstances that influence you.
• Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card indicating that you use Medrol. Any medical person who treats you should be aware that you are taking steroids.
• If you need surgery, inform the surgeon ahead of time that you are taking Medrol. You may need to stop taking the medication for a brief period.

The most common side effects of methylprednisolone include:

• Muscle weakness.
• Stomach pain.
• Swelling.
• Eye pain or eye redness.
• Weight gain.
• Increased appetite.
• Infections.
• Joint pain.
• Muscle pain.
• Fluid retention.
• Increased blood sugar levels with long-term use.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using 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:

• Symptoms of withdrawal include long-term weariness, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, and stomach pain.
• Serious, life-threatening allergic reactions to the medication, such as hives or a skin rash, swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, and trouble breathing.
• Cushing's syndrome (adrenal gland problem).
• Eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and certain eye infections.
• Increased risk of serious infections. Avoid anyone who is sick and wash your hands often. If you are exposed to measles or chickenpox, call your doctor right away.

These are not all of the possible side effects of 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 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 whether you have:

• A thyroid disorder.
• Herpes infection of the eyes or glaucoma.
• Stomach ulcers, ulcerative colitis, or diverticulitis.
• Depression, mental illness, or psychosis.
• Heart failure.
• Liver disease (especially cirrhosis).
• High blood pressure (hypertension).
• Osteoporosis.
• A muscle disorder, such as myasthenia gravis.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Fungal infections.

• Currently have a fungal infection.
• Receiving live vaccinations and taking a high dose of methylprednisolone (Medrol).

Although it is unclear how long Medrol takes to function when taken orally, your body begins to absorb the medication as soon as you take it. If injected into a vein, this medicine usually begins to work after an hour. When injected into a joint, it usually starts working after a week. Your physician will advise you on the optimal approach to use Medrol based on the purpose for which you are taking it.

When 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:

• Ketoconazole.
• Cyclosporine.
• Phenobarbital.
• Phenytoin.
• Rifampin.
• Carbamazepine.

Methylprednisolone tablets are available, and it is also available as an injectable, which is typically administered in a hospital or at home by a visiting nurse.

In general, the dose of methylprednisolone (Medrol) is determined by the ailment for which you are taking the medicine and its severity. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on how you respond to the drug and whether you have any side effects.

The typical starting dose for oral methylprednisolone (Medrol) tablets is 4 mg to 48 mg by mouth every day.

The normal initial dose of methylprednisolone (Medrol) injections varies from 4 mg to 120 mg per day. It is either injected into a muscle, vein, joint, or beneath the skin.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the company that manufactures Medrol.

There are lower-cost generics available.

Do not stop taking Medrol suddenly. Speak to your healthcare provider beforehand.

It is not known if Medrol is safe to take while pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Medrol can be found in your breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.