Common Use

Medrol is a hormone naturally produced in the body and is essential for many bodily functions. It is used to treat various conditions, including allergic disorders (such as bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, and dermatitis), skin conditions (like dermatitis herpetiformis, pemphigus, and severe psoriasis), ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders. Medrol is also used to quickly reduce inflammation in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, acute gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease.

Dosage and Direction

The dosage of Medrol varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. The initial dose can range from 4 mg to 48 mg per day and should be adjusted based on the patient's response. Taking Medrol in multiple doses throughout the day is more effective but also carries a higher risk of side effects compared to taking the total daily dose once daily or every other day.

Precautions

Before taking Medrol, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, untreated active fungal infections, or a history of bleeding problems, blood clots, brittle bones, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, eye diseases, kidney disease, infections, severe liver disease, mental/mood conditions, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems, underactive thyroid, or untreated mineral imbalances. If you are planning surgery, let your doctor or dentist know that you are using Medrol or have used it in the past 12 months.

Medrol can cause dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery. Do not receive immunizations, vaccinations, or skin tests while on this medication unless directed by your doctor. Avoid contact with people who have recently received the oral polio vaccine. Medrol may mask signs of infection or increase the risk of serious infections. If you stop taking Medrol, you may need to restart it during periods of severe stress. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual weakness, sudden weight loss, or dizziness. Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles while taking Medrol.

Contraindications

Medrol should not be used by individuals with systemic fungal infections, hypersensitivity to its components, chickenpox, Cushing's syndrome, herpes simplex keratitis, tuberculosis, or a reaction to the smallpox vaccine (vaccinia).

Possible Side Effects

Side effects of Medrol depend on the dose, duration, and frequency of use. Short-term use is usually well-tolerated, but long-term, high doses can cause serious side effects. Common side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, high blood pressure, potassium loss, headache, muscle weakness, puffiness of the face, facial hair growth, thinning skin, easy bruising, glaucoma, cataracts, peptic ulcers, worsening diabetes, irregular menstruation, growth retardation in children, convulsions, and psychological disturbances. Psychological effects may include depression, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, or psychotic behavior. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor promptly.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you are using. Medrol should not be used with live vaccines due to serious interactions. Certain medications, like Troleandomycin, can increase blood levels of Medrol, raising the risk of side effects. Cyclosporin may require dose adjustments when used with Medrol to avoid side effects. Phenobarbital, phenytoin, and rifampin can reduce Medrol's effectiveness, potentially requiring a higher dose. Medrol may increase the clearance of high-dose aspirin, so aspirin should be used cautiously in patients with hypoprothrombinemia.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Medrol, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Overdose

In case of an overdose, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Storage

Store Medrol at room temperature, between 68-77°F (20-25°C), away from light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Medrol and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We are not responsible for any errors in this information or for any consequences resulting from its use or self-treatment.