Methylprednisolone (Medrol, Solu-Medrol, Depo-Medrol)

What is methylprednisolone?

Medrol and its generic form methylprednisolone are corticosteroids. That means that these drugs are used to manipulate the immune system to control systemic reactions. Primary methylprednisolone uses include the controlling of a severe allergic reaction, to reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis, to control an asthma attack, and to treat certain blood and autoimmune disorders. Long-term management of lupus is the most notable of the autoimmune uses of Medrol.

Solu-Medrol (methylprednisolone sodium succinate)

Solu-Medrol is a potent form of the drug for injection or intravenous use. The active ingredient is methylprednisolone sodium succinate. This from of Medrol is also used when the medication can’t be taken orally for one reason or another. For example, a severe allergic reaction may make it difficult for the patient to swallow, or a gastrointestinal disease may make it impossible to digest or absorb the drug properly. Other conditions such as respiratory disorders, rheumatic conditions, or lupus may also make this form of treatment necessary.

Depo-Medrol (methylprednisolone acetate)

Depo-Medrol is yet another potent form of Medrol that is administered via injection or intravenously. This version uses methylprednisolone acetate. It too can be used to treat allergies or gastrointestinal conditions. Ulcerative colitis is one specific GI disorder treated with this medication. Endocrine disorders, such as adrenocortical insufficiency, may also be treated in this fashion. Respiratory disorders, including the autoimmune disorder sarcoidosis, may likewise be treated with Depo-Medrol.

Medrol – General Information

Since Medrol affects the immune system, you should let your physician know before taking any vaccines while on Medrol. A woman who becomes pregnant while on Medrol should contact her doctor immediately to decide if the treatment should be discontinued. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if this drug is stopped abruptly without reducing the dosage first. These symptoms may include an imbalance of hormones whether the patient is male or female.

If Medrol upsets your stomach, taking it with food may diminish this effect. If your stomach handles the drug okay, taking it with food will not make any difference one way or the other. Since this drug comes in dosage packs, instructions on how to take it properly will appear on the pack. Always take this medication as directed to maximize benefits and minimize the side effects.

Some medications may interact with Medrol so be sure to consult your doctor before taking other medications. If you presently have a systemic fungal infection, you should not take Medrol.