(Medrol®, Solu-Medrol®, Depo-Medrol®, and Methapred® are other names for this medication.) 

Use: Methylprednisolone is a glucocorticoid drug (like the hormone cortisol) used for many conditions. Glucocorticocoids affect nearly every cell in the body and can be used to suppress the immune system in diseases like lupus, to stop itching, to treat Addison’s disease, to treat certain types of cancer, to stop swelling of the brain, to treat certain kinds of anemia and many other diseases and conditions.

Side Effects: Animals treated with methylprednisolone will have an increased appetite, thirst and need to urinate. Glucocorticoid drugs will suppress your animal’s immune system and may increase the risk for infection. If your pet shows any signs of fever or urinary tract infection you should contact your veterinarian immediately. If your pet shows signs of dry hair coat or hair loss, weakness and muscle loss, darkening of the skin, or develops a pot-belly, you should contact your veterinarian. Some animals may become aggressive while on methylprednisolone.

Precautions: Methylprednisolone and drugs like it should always be given with food to prevent stomach ulcers and bleeding that are sometimes associated with oral corticosteroid therapy.

Directions: Dogs and cats usually receive methylprednisolone orally once to twice daily. Dogs usually receive prednisone in the morning and cats usually receive it in the evening if only given once daily as this will more closely mimic their natural hormone cycles. Your veterinarian may prescribe a tapering (reducing) dose of this medication. More medication is given early in therapy and the dose is slowly tapered.

Remember: Methylprednisolone should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container away from all children and other household pets.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.