Methylprednisolone: An Overview of Your Medication

Summary or Key Points

Methylprednisolone is a prescription medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, asthma, and allergies. It belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and modify the body’s immune response. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking this medication. If you have questions or concerns, consider a telemedicine visit with one of our providers.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Medrol (Methylprednisolone)

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the standard name of a medication, not tied to any specific brand. It’s often the active ingredient in the medication. Here, Methylprednisolone is the generic name, listed in parenthesis.

Pharmacologic Category

Methylprednisolone belongs to the class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Other medications in this category include prednisone (Deltasone), hydrocortisone (Cortef), and dexamethasone (Decadron).

Dosing

Methylprednisolone is used to treat various inflammatory conditions. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If needed, schedule a telemedicine visit with our providers. Here are some common indications:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: 4-48mg daily
• Lupus: 4-48mg daily
• Asthma: 40-60mg in single or divided doses
• Allergies: 4-60mg in single or divided doses

Frequency and length of treatment vary based on your health condition and response to therapy.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Methylprednisolone is available in various forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 2mg, 4mg, 8mg, 16mg, 32mg
• Injectable solution: 40mg/mL, 80mg/mL
• Injectable powder for reconstitution: 500mg, 1g

Administration Instructions

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. If taking the liquid form, use a special measuring device to accurately measure the dose. Do not suddenly stop taking Methylprednisolone without consulting your healthcare provider. Contact one of our telemedicine providers if you have any concerns.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Methylprednisolone may cause side effects. Not everyone will experience them, but it’s important to be aware of them. Contact your healthcare provider or schedule a telemedicine visit if you experience any of these:

• Common: Weight gain, upset stomach, mood changes
• Less Common: Trouble sleeping, increased sweating
• Rare but serious: Irregular heartbeat, unusual tiredness, vision problems

Remember, your healthcare provider has prescribed this medication because they’ve judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a situation or condition that makes a certain treatment or procedure potentially harmful. For Methylprednisolone, there are several contraindications:

• Systemic fungal infections: Methylprednisolone can suppress the immune system, allowing fungal infections to spread.
• Allergy to Methylprednisolone or any of its components: An allergic reaction can lead to severe adverse effects.

Always discuss potential contraindications with a healthcare provider before starting a new medication. Schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers if needed.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Some medications can interact with Methylprednisolone, including:

• Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
• Phenytoin (Dilantin)
• Rifampin (Rifadin)
• Drugs for diabetes

Methylprednisolone in Pregnancy

Methylprednisolone should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Methylprednisolone while Breastfeeding

Methylprednisolone passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Always consult with a healthcare provider to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Methylprednisolone, without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is around $12 for tablets. Prices may vary by pharmacy and location.

Possible Alternatives

Alternative treatments or lifestyle changes may help manage various inflammatory conditions. However, you should always discuss these with your healthcare provider before making any changes. Consider scheduling a telemedicine visit with one of our providers to discuss these alternatives:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Physical therapy, NSAIDs, Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
• Lupus: NSAIDs, Antimalarial drugs, Immunosuppressants
• Asthma: Inhalers, Bronchodilators, Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking
• Allergies: Antihistamines, Decongestants, Avoidance of allergens

Recent Updates on Methylprednisolone Research

Research on Methylprednisolone continues, aiming to understand its effects better. Recent studies suggest that Methylprednisolone might be beneficial in treating severe cases of certain respiratory infections when used early and at high doses. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. As medical knowledge advances, our understanding of how best to use this medication may change. Always consult a healthcare provider to get the most up-to-date information.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.