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Methylprednisolone

Brand names: Medrol, Medrol Dosepak, Solu-Medrol, Depo-Medrol

Methylprednisolone is a steroid that calms inflammation and the immune system. The Medrol Dosepak is a common 6-day tapering pack.

Brand namesMedrol, Medrol Dosepak, Solu-Medrol, Depo-Medrol
Type of medicineCorticosteroid (steroid)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's used for flare-ups of many conditions, from asthma to arthritis to allergic reactions.

What it's used for

  • Asthma and COPD flares
  • Severe allergic reactions and rashes
  • Arthritis and joint inflammation
  • Back pain flares (off-label short courses)
  • Autoimmune diseases and MS flares

How to take it

  • Take it with food, in the morning if once a day.
  • Follow the Dosepak schedule exactly; the dose steps down each day.
  • Don't stop longer courses suddenly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Increased appetite
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • Higher blood sugar
  • Stomach upset
Call 911Black or bloody stools or vomiting blood
Call your provider todayFever or other signs of infection
Call your provider todayVery high blood sugar: extreme thirst, peeing a lot, or confusion
Call your provider todaySevere mood changes or confusion
Call your provider todayEye pain or vision changes

Warnings

  • It lowers your ability to fight infection.
  • People with diabetes should check blood sugar more often.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • NSAIDs raise the risk of stomach ulcers.
  • Diabetes medicines may need adjusting.
  • Some antifungals and antibiotics raise its level.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Sometimes needed in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.