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The following safety and warning information outlines potential risks and important precautions for those considering or currently using methylprednisolone (Medrol). It is crucial to review this information and consult your healthcare provider for any concerns.

• Infection Risk: Long-term use of methylprednisolone can increase your susceptibility to infections or mask their symptoms. This includes serious fungal, viral, or bacterial infections such as tuberculosis. Avoid close contact with individuals with these infections. Discuss your vaccination status with your provider, as live vaccines may not be advisable during high-dose treatment. Inform your provider if you have a history of TB or parasitic infections.

• Mood and Behavioral Changes: Be vigilant for mood or behavior alterations such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, or hallucinations while on this medication. Report these symptoms to your provider immediately, especially if you have a history of mental health issues.

• Adrenal Suppression Risk: Prolonged use can lead to adrenal gland suppression, impairing natural hormone production. Do not abruptly stop taking the medication; consult your provider. Symptoms of withdrawal include fever, joint pain, and fatigue in adults, or growth issues and headaches in children. Your provider will prescribe the minimal effective dose to mitigate this risk.

• Heart and Kidney Function: Monitor for changes in fluid and electrolyte balance, which may cause high blood pressure, swelling, or kidney issues. Those with a history of heart attack, heart failure, or kidney problems should disclose this to their provider before starting treatment.

• Gastrointestinal Concerns: Methylprednisolone may cause stomach irritation, ulcers, or bleeding, especially if there is a history of such issues or concurrent use of NSAIDs. Avoid alcohol to reduce stomach irritation risk. Seek immediate medical help for persistent stomach pain or bloody stools.

• Bone Health: Long-term use can decrease calcium absorption, leading to osteoporosis in adults or growth suppression in children. Discuss your bone health risks with your provider, particularly if you have a history of bone fractures or osteoporosis.

• Eye Health: Extended use may increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and eye infections. Report any vision changes promptly, and inform your provider of any past eye infections. Regular eye exams may be necessary.

• Blood Sugar Levels: Prolonged use can elevate blood sugar levels, potentially leading to diabetes. Monitor for symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, or fruity breath odor. Those with diabetes should regularly check blood sugar levels as advised by their provider.

Contraindications:

• Do not use methylprednisolone if you have a current fungal infection.
• Avoid receiving live vaccines when on high doses of this medication.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and before making any changes to your medication regimen.

When taking this medication, you may encounter some common side effects that are usually mild and not a cause for alarm. These include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, appetite changes, increased sweating, acne, muscle weakness, stomach pain, bloating, increased appetite, and weight gain. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

There are also other side effects that have been reported, such as swelling, joint problems, skin thinning, infections, blurry or cloudy vision, eye pain, and redness. While these effects may not be as common, they should be monitored, and medical advice sought if they become severe.

More serious side effects, although rare, require immediate medical attention. These include symptoms like unusual weight gain, menstrual changes, bone or joint pain, easy bruising or bleeding, mood changes, muscle weakness or pain, a puffy face, slow wound healing, swelling of the extremities, vision problems, irregular heartbeat, and signs of stomach or intestinal bleeding. Very serious side effects, such as seizures or severe allergic reactions—including rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing—necessitate urgent medical care.

Lastly, this medication may affect blood sugar levels, potentially worsening diabetes or lowering your ability to fight infections. Be vigilant for symptoms of high blood sugar and signs of infection, and consult your healthcare provider accordingly. If you encounter any side effects not listed here, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Methylprednisolone, commonly known as Medrol, can interact with a variety of medications and supplements. It is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you are taking, whether they are prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, or herbal products.

Some medications should not be combined with Methylprednisolone. Desmopressin and the live Rotavirus Vaccine are examples where your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan.

There are also medications that, while not typically recommended to be used with Methylprednisolone, may be necessary in certain situations. If you are prescribed these medications, your doctor might adjust the dosage or frequency. These include NSAIDs like Ibuprofen and Celecoxib, antiplatelet drugs such as Clopidogrel, and blood thinners like Warfarin and Dabigatran, among others.

Additionally, Methylprednisolone may increase the risk of side effects when taken with certain medications, but in some cases, the benefits may outweigh the risks. Your doctor might alter the dosages accordingly. These include drugs such as Cyclosporine, Erythromycin, Ketoconazole, and warfarin.

Moreover, some medications can affect how Methylprednisolone is removed from your body, potentially altering its effectiveness. Examples are azole antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, and certain antibiotics.

Furthermore, Methylprednisolone might interfere with specific lab tests, potentially leading to inaccurate results. Ensure all healthcare providers involved in your care are aware you are taking this medication.