Medrol

Medrol (Methylprednisolone) is a potent anti-inflammatory steroid. with a greater anti-inflammatory potency than prednisolone or hydrocortisone. Methylprednisolone is indicated for endocrine disorders, rheumatic disorders (including rheumatoid arthritis) and some allergies. The active ingredient in this drug works by acting within cells to prevent the release of certain chemicals that are important in the immune system.

These chemicals are normally involved in producing immune and allergic responses, resulting in inflammation. By decreasing the release of these chemicals in a particular area, inflammation is reduced. This can help control a wide number of disease states, characterised by excessive inflammation. They include severe allergic reactions, inflammation of the lungs in asthma and inflammation of the joints in arthritis.

The initial dosage of Medrol (Methylprednisolone) may vary from 4mg to 48mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated. In situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. Clinical situations in which high dose therapy may be indicated include multiple sclerosis (200 mg/day), cerebral oedema (200 - 1,000 mg/day), and organ transplantation (up to 7 mg/kg/day).

The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If, after a reasonable period of time, there is a lack of satisfactory clinical response, it should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.

Medrol (Methylprednisolone) may cause:

• Difficulty in sleeping (insomnia)
• Depression
• Thinning of the skin
• Increased pressure inside the eye (glaucoma)
• Weight gain
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Thinning of the bones (osteoporosis)
• Ulceration of the stomach or intestine
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Acne
• Increased risk of fractures of the bones
• Increased hair growth (hirsutism)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Supression of growth in children and adolescents
• Indigestion (dyspepsia)

The most dangerous side effect of Medrol (Methylprednisolone) is during long-term usage after the body ceases its natural production of cortisone. If the medication is abruptly stopped a condition called Addisonian Crisis can result, which can in some cases be fatal. For this reason, it is essential that treatment with this drug is phased out of use gradually. If in any doubt, always consult your health care provider.