Methylprednisolone is used for a variety of conditions including allergies, inflammation, and Addison's disease. It is available as 4mg scored tablets. Consult your veterinarian for usual dosage and administration. (Sold per tablet.)
Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid used for a variety of conditions including allergies, inflammation, lupus, colitis, Addison's disease, and certain forms of kidney disease. Methylprednisolone requires a prescription and is sold per tablet.
For: Cats and Dogs
Benefits:
•
Easy to administer
•
Fast acting
How it works: Corticosteroids have anti-allergy as well as anti-inflammatory properties.
Cautions: Various side effects can occur. Be sure to tell your veterinarian what medications you are giving to your pet.
More Information:
Brand Name Medrol (Pharmacia & Upjohn)
Generic Name Methylprednisolone Tablets
What is the most important information I should know about methylprednisolone: Do not stop giving methylprednisolone suddenly if you have been giving the medication to your pet for a few weeks. A gradual reduction in dosage may be needed. Give methylprednisolone with food to prevent stomach upset. Methylprednisolone is used in dogs and cats for the treatment of many conditions. Methylprednisolone is available by prescription as 4mg scored tablets.
What is Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is in a class of drugs called steroids. Methylprednisolone reduces swelling and decreases the body's immune response. Methylprednisolone is used to treat many conditions including Addison's disease, inflammation, lupus, allergy, asthma, colitis, and certain forms of kidney disease. Methylprednisolone may be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Methylprednisolone to my pet: Do not give methylprednisolone if your pet has a serious viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure or heart disease, colitis or stomach ulcers, hypothyroidism, diabetes, or any other medical condition. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.
How should this medication be given: Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Do not give more or less than your veterinarian has prescribed. If you do not understand the directions, ask your pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink. Give methylprednisolone with food to prevent stomach upset. Do not stop giving methylprednisolone suddenly if you have been giving the medication to your pet for a few weeks. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: If you are giving only one dose a day, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled daily dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. If you give more than one dose a day, you can give the missed dose as soon as you remember, or you can give both doses at the same time when it is time for the next dose. If giving the medication every other day, give the missed dose as soon as you remember and then go back to the regular every other day schedule.
What happens if I overdose the pet: In the event of overdose, contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room. Overdose of methylprednisolone, usually as a result of large doses given over a long period of time can result in increased blood pressure, fluid retention, and weak muscles.
What should I avoid while giving Methylprednisolone to my pet: Do not give any vaccines during treatment with methylprednisolone unless your veterinarian tells you to do so.
What are the possible side effects of Methylprednisolone: If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving methylprednisolone and seek emergency veterinary medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); increased blood pressure (severe headache or blurred vision); or sudden weight gain. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving methylprednisolone and talk to your veterinarian if your pet develops insomnia; nausea, vomiting, stomach upset; fatigue or dizziness; muscle weakness or joint pain; problems with diabetes control; or increased hunger or thirst. Other side effects that may occur, rarely, may include: cataracts, glaucoma, or changes in behavior. Other side effects may occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or especially bothersome to your pet.
What other drugs will affect Methylprednisolone: Do not give your pet any over-the-counter or other prescription medications, including herbal products, without first talking to your veterinarian. Many other medicines can interact with methylprednisolone resulting in side effects or changes in the effectiveness of the medications.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about methylprednisolone written for health professionals that you may read.
Directions:
•
Methylprednisolone tablets, available by prescription, are used for a variety of conditions including allergies, inflammation, Addison’s disease, colitis, and certain forms of kidney disease.
•
Methylprednisolone tablets belong to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.
•
Do not give methylprednisolone if your pet has a serious viral, bacterial, or fungal infection.
Tip: Do not stop giving methylprednisolone suddenly if you have been giving the medication to your pet for a few weeks. Give the medication with food to prevent stomach upset. Allow plenty of water for your pet to drink.
Dosage:
Pet
Weight
Dosage
Dogs/Cats:
All weights
Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian
Horses:
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
This information sheet is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian. Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies.