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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Methylprednisolone
Generic Name
Methylprednisolone
Active Ingredient
MethylprednisoloneCategory
Corticosteroid [EPC]
Salt Form
Acetate
Variants
55
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 62135-763 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 68788-4593 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 71205-453 |
References used for this content
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Methylprednisolone, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 80425-0255 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 0603-4593 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 83008-061 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 85509-1400 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 0904-6914 |
| 16 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 59762-0050 |
| 32 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 59762-0051 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 59762-4440 |
| 4 mg/1 | TABLET | ORAL | 68001-005 |
+ 38 more variants
Detailed information about Methylprednisolone
Methylprednisolone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid (corticosteroid) used to treat a wide range of inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation.
The dosage of methylprednisolone is highly variable and must be individualized based on the specific disease being treated and the patient's clinical response. According to the FDA-approved labeling, the initial dosage may vary from 4 mg to 48 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated.
Pediatric dosing is generally based on the severity of the condition and the child's response rather than strict adherence to age or body weight ratios. However, common guidelines include:
It is critical to note that prolonged use of corticosteroids in children can lead to growth suppression. Pediatric patients on long-term therapy should have their growth and development monitored closely by a specialist.
Methylprednisolone is not significantly cleared by the kidneys, and the metabolites are generally inactive. Therefore, standard dose adjustments are typically not required for patients with renal failure. However, clinicians monitor these patients closely for fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances (like potassium loss), which can be exacerbated by corticosteroids.
Since methylprednisolone is primarily metabolized in the liver, patients with severe hepatic impairment (e.g., advanced cirrhosis) may experience higher systemic exposure and a prolonged half-life. While specific dose-adjustment formulas do not exist, healthcare providers often use the lowest effective dose and monitor for signs of corticosteroid excess (Cushingoid features).
In geriatric populations, dosing should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the range. This is due to the increased frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and concomitant diseases or other drug therapies. Older adults are also at higher risk for steroid-induced osteoporosis and glucose intolerance.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you miss several doses, contact your healthcare provider immediately for instructions, as this could trigger withdrawal symptoms.
Acute overdose of methylprednisolone rarely causes life-threatening symptoms. However, chronic overdose (taking too much over a long period) can lead to Cushing's syndrome, characterized by a moon-shaped face, weight gain in the trunk, and thinning skin. In the event of a massive acute ingestion, contact a poison control center or seek emergency medical care. Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely. Do not adjust your dose or stop the medication without explicit medical guidance, as doing so can lead to a life-threatening adrenal crisis.
Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone affect almost every organ system in the body. Common side effects, especially with short-term or high-dose use, include:
Methylprednisolone is a high-potency medication that requires careful medical supervision. It can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and potentially masking the symptoms of an existing infection. Patients should avoid contact with individuals who have contagious diseases like chickenpox or measles, as these can be fatal in immunosuppressed individuals. Furthermore, live vaccines (such as the MMR or oral polio vaccine) should not be administered to patients taking immunosuppressive doses of methylprednisolone, as the vaccine virus could replicate and cause disease.
No FDA black box warnings for Methylprednisolone. However, clinical warnings regarding the risks of abrupt withdrawal and the potential for secondary infections are prominently featured in all prescribing information.
There are specific circumstances where methylprednisolone must NEVER be used because the risks far outweigh any possible benefit:
Methylprednisolone is generally classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus (such as cleft palate or intrauterine growth restriction), but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans.
Methylprednisolone is a potent agonist of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Its primary mechanism involves the modulation of gene expression. By binding to the GR, it forms a complex that moves into the nucleus and binds to Glucocorticoid Response Elements (GREs) on DNA. This leads to the induction of anti-inflammatory proteins (like lipocortin) and the repression of pro-inflammatory genes (like those for COX-2 and various cytokines). It also has non-genomic effects, such as stabilizing cell membranes and reducing the release of histamine from mast cells, which contributes to its rapid action in allergic reactions.
The anti-inflammatory potency of methylprednisolone is approximately 5 times that of hydrocortisone and 1.25 times that of prednisone. It has very low mineralocorticoid activity, meaning it causes less sodium retention than hydrocortisone. The onset of action for oral methylprednisolone is about 1-2 hours, but for the sodium succinate IV form, effects can be seen within minutes. The duration of effect is roughly 12 to 36 hours for the oral form, while the acetate injection can last for weeks.
| Parameter | Value |
Common questions about Methylprednisolone
Methylprednisolone is a versatile corticosteroid used to treat a wide variety of conditions characterized by inflammation and overactive immune responses. It is commonly prescribed for severe allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, and skin conditions like psoriasis or severe dermatitis. Additionally, it is a mainstay treatment for autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis relapses. It can also be used to manage certain types of cancer, endocrine disorders, and to prevent organ rejection after a transplant. Your doctor will determine the appropriate use based on your specific medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
The most frequently reported side effects of methylprednisolone include increased appetite, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping (insomnia). Many patients also experience mood swings, ranging from irritability to euphoria, and fluid retention that causes swelling in the hands or ankles. Gastrointestinal issues such as upset stomach or heartburn are also common, which is why it is usually recommended to take the medication with food. While these side effects are often manageable, they can become more pronounced with higher doses or longer treatment durations. Always report persistent or bothersome side effects to your healthcare provider.
It is generally advised to avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption while taking methylprednisolone. Both alcohol and corticosteroids can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines, and using them together significantly increases your risk of developing stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Furthermore, methylprednisolone can raise your blood sugar levels, and alcohol can cause unpredictable fluctuations in blood glucose, making it difficult to manage conditions like diabetes. Alcohol can also worsen the mood swings and sleep disturbances often caused by the medication. Discuss your alcohol intake with your doctor to understand your specific risks.
Methylprednisolone is classified as FDA Category C, meaning it should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Some studies have suggested a slightly higher risk of oral clefts (like cleft palate) when steroids are used during the first trimester. If used later in pregnancy, there is a risk that the baby may be born with underactive adrenal glands, requiring medical monitoring. However, untreated severe maternal conditions (like severe asthma or lupus) also pose significant risks to the pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will carefully balance these factors to determine the safest course of action for you and your baby.
The time it takes for methylprednisolone to work depends on the form administered and the condition being treated. For acute allergic reactions or asthma, an intravenous (IV) injection of methylprednisolone sodium succinate can begin working within minutes to an hour. Oral tablets typically reach peak levels in the blood within 1.5 to 2 hours, but it may take several hours or even a few days to feel the full anti-inflammatory effect on your symptoms. For chronic conditions like arthritis, you might notice improvement within 24 to 48 hours. If you do not see an improvement in your symptoms within the timeframe suggested by your doctor, contact them for further guidance.
No, you should never stop taking methylprednisolone suddenly if you have been taking it for more than a few days. Doing so can lead to a dangerous condition called adrenal crisis because your body has temporarily stopped producing its own natural cortisol. Symptoms of withdrawal or adrenal crisis include extreme fatigue, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and low blood pressure. To prevent this, your doctor will provide a tapering schedule to gradually reduce your dose, allowing your adrenal glands to slowly resume their normal function. Always follow the tapering instructions exactly as prescribed to ensure a safe discontinuation of the medication.
If you miss a dose of methylprednisolone, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. If you are on a complex tapering schedule, such as a Medrol Dosepak, and you miss multiple doses, it is important to call your healthcare provider for specific instructions on how to get back on track. Consistency is key to the effectiveness of steroid therapy.
Yes, weight gain is one of the most common side effects of methylprednisolone, especially with long-term use. The medication increases appetite and changes how your body stores fat, often leading to increased fat deposits in the abdomen, face (moon face), and the back of the neck (buffalo hump). It also causes the body to retain sodium and water, which contributes to fluid weight and bloating. To help manage this, doctors often recommend a low-sodium, low-calorie diet and regular exercise. Most of the fluid-related weight gain will subside once the medication is stopped and tapered correctly, though fat redistribution may take longer to resolve.
Methylprednisolone has several significant drug interactions, so it must be used cautiously with other medications. It can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, anti-seizure drugs like phenytoin, and certain antibiotics or antifungals. Taking it with NSAIDs like ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach ulcers. It also interferes with the effectiveness of diabetes medications and vaccines. Because of these risks, it is essential to provide your doctor and pharmacist with a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking before starting methylprednisolone.
Yes, methylprednisolone is widely available as a generic medication in both tablet and injectable forms. The generic versions are bioequivalent to brand-name versions like Medrol, Depo-Medrol, or Solu-Medrol, meaning they contain the same active ingredient and work the same way in the body. Generic medications are typically much more affordable than their brand-name counterparts and are covered by most insurance plans. When you receive your prescription, the label may say 'Methylprednisolone' instead of a brand name. If you have questions about the specific manufacturer or formulation of your generic medication, your pharmacist can provide detailed information.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Methylprednisolone)
> Warning: Stop taking Methylprednisolone and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
Prolonged use of methylprednisolone (typically more than 2-3 weeks) carries the risk of more permanent or systemic changes:
There are currently no FDA Black Box Warnings for oral or standard injectable methylprednisolone. However, the FDA has issued a Drug Safety Communication regarding the injection of corticosteroids into the epidural space of the spine. This practice (often for back pain) is not FDA-approved and has been linked to rare but serious neurological events, including stroke, paralysis, and death.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Monitoring through regular blood tests and physical exams is essential for anyone on long-term steroid therapy.
If you are taking methylprednisolone for an extended period, your doctor will require regular monitoring, including:
Methylprednisolone generally does not interfere with the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, some patients experience dizziness, vision changes, or mood swings. If you experience these side effects, avoid these activities until you know how the medication affects you.
Alcohol should be consumed with extreme caution. Both alcohol and methylprednisolone can irritate the stomach lining. Combining them significantly increases the risk of developing peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, alcohol can complicate the management of blood sugar levels, which are already affected by the steroid.
Tapering Requirements: The most critical warning regarding methylprednisolone is the danger of sudden discontinuation. When you take synthetic steroids, your adrenal glands stop producing natural cortisol (adrenal suppression). If you stop the drug suddenly, your body is left with no cortisol, leading to an "adrenal crisis." Symptoms include severe weakness, confusion, low blood pressure, and vascular collapse, which can be fatal. Your doctor will provide a schedule to slowly reduce your dose over weeks or months.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially any history of tuberculosis, diabetes, or heart disease, with your healthcare provider before starting Methylprednisolone.
Methylprednisolone can affect several diagnostic tests:
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. A complete medication reconciliation is the best way to prevent dangerous interactions.
Patients who are allergic to other corticosteroids (like prednisone, dexamethasone, or hydrocortisone) may also be allergic to methylprednisolone. This is known as cross-sensitivity. Furthermore, certain injectable forms of methylprednisolone (specifically the sodium succinate form in some multi-dose vials) may contain traces of cow's milk protein. Patients with a known or suspected hypersensitivity to cow's milk should inform their doctor, as severe allergic reactions have occurred.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including past infections and allergies, before prescribing Methylprednisolone.
Methylprednisolone is excreted into human breast milk. While low doses (e.g., 8 mg/day or less) are unlikely to cause adverse effects in the infant, high doses could potentially suppress the infant's endogenous corticosteroid production or interfere with their growth. To minimize exposure, some experts suggest waiting 3 to 4 hours after an oral dose before breastfeeding. The benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against the potential risks to the infant.
The use of methylprednisolone in children is common but requires extreme vigilance. The primary concern is growth suppression. Corticosteroids inhibit the growth of long bones and can result in a shorter adult height. Pediatric patients on long-term therapy should have their height and weight plotted on growth charts regularly. Additionally, children are at risk for the same side effects as adults, including increased intracranial pressure and mood changes. It is generally NOT approved for use in premature infants due to the risk of cerebral palsy and other developmental issues associated with certain preservatives (like benzyl alcohol) found in some injectable forms.
Elderly patients are more susceptible to the side effects of methylprednisolone. Key concerns include:
While the drug itself doesn't require specific GFR-based adjustments, patients with renal disease are more prone to the edema and hypertension caused by the drug's mineralocorticoid effects. Close monitoring of blood pressure and weight is necessary.
In patients with liver cirrhosis or other forms of hepatic impairment, the metabolism of methylprednisolone is slowed. This leads to an enhanced effect of the drug. Doctors typically use the lowest possible dose and monitor for signs of "steroid overdose" (Cushingoid features).
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and frequent follow-up to ensure safety and efficacy.
| Bioavailability | 80% to 90% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | ~77% (Primarily to albumin) |
| Half-life (Plasma) | 1.8 to 3.5 hours |
| Tmax (Oral) | 1.5 to 2.3 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Primarily CYP3A4) |
| Excretion | Renal (primarily as metabolites) |
Methylprednisolone is classified as a Glucocorticoid within the broader therapeutic category of Corticosteroids. Related medications include Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone, and Triamcinolone. Among these, methylprednisolone is considered an intermediate-acting steroid.