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The following safety information is crucial for understanding the potential risks and necessary precautions when using methylprednisolone (Medrol). It is important to carefully review these details and consult your healthcare provider with any concerns.

• Infection Risk: Long-term use of methylprednisolone (Medrol) may increase your risk of developing infections or obscure infection symptoms, including serious fungal, viral (e.g., chickenpox, measles), or bacterial (e.g., tuberculosis) infections. Avoid close contact with individuals who have had these infections. Inform your provider if you have a history of tuberculosis or parasitic infections, as monitoring might be necessary. Consult your provider before receiving any vaccinations, as live vaccines may pose additional risks.

• Mood and Behavior Changes: This medication may cause mood or behavioral changes, such as depression, mood swings, insomnia, anxiety, or hallucinations. Immediate consultation with your provider is advised if these symptoms occur, especially if there is a history of mental health issues.

• Adrenal Gland Function: Long-term use of methylprednisolone (Medrol) can suppress adrenal gland function, leading to withdrawal symptoms if the medication is abruptly stopped. Symptoms in adults may include fever, joint or muscle pain, and fatigue, while children may experience growth issues, weight gain, and headaches. Your provider will determine the lowest effective dose and may conduct tests to monitor adrenal function.

• Heart and Kidney Function: The medication can affect fluid and electrolyte balance, potentially causing high blood pressure, swelling, and kidney issues. There is also a risk to heart health, particularly after a recent heart attack. Inform your provider if you have a history of heart failure, heart attack, high blood pressure, or kidney problems.

• Stomach Problems: Methylprednisolone (Medrol) may increase the risk of stomach damage, including irritation, ulcers, and bleeding. Alcohol consumption can exacerbate these effects. If you experience persistent stomach pain or notice bloody or dark stools, seek medical attention immediately. Inform your provider if you have a history of stomach issues or are taking other medications that affect the stomach, such as NSAIDs.

• Bone Health: Long-term use may reduce calcium absorption and weaken bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis or affecting growth in children. Discuss your personal risk factors with your provider, especially if you have a history of bone fractures or osteoporosis.

• Eye Health: Prolonged use can increase the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, and eye infections. Report any vision changes or eye pain to your provider and consider regular eye exams.

• Blood Sugar Levels: Extended use of methylprednisolone (Medrol) can raise blood sugar levels, potentially leading to diabetes. Monitor for symptoms such as confusion, drowsiness, excessive thirst or hunger, frequent urination, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity-smelling breath. If you have diabetes, regular blood sugar monitoring may be necessary.

Contraindications:

• Avoid using methylprednisolone (Medrol) if you currently have a fungal infection.
• High doses should not be administered to individuals receiving live vaccines due to significant health risks.

Please consult your healthcare provider for more detailed advice tailored to your specific health needs.

When taking this medication, some common side effects may occur, including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, increased sweating, and potentially acne or swelling at the injection site. These side effects are generally mild, but if they persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

It's important to be aware that this medication can increase blood sugar levels, which could lead to or exacerbate diabetes. Watch for signs of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or urination. If you have diabetes, closely monitor your blood sugar levels and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.

There is a possibility of this medication lowering your ability to fight infections, making you more susceptible to serious infections. Report any signs of infection like persistent sore throat, fever, chills, or cough to your doctor promptly. Other serious side effects that require immediate attention include unusual weight gain, menstrual changes, bone or joint pain, easy bruising or bleeding, mood changes, muscle weakness, puffy face, slow wound healing, swelling, thinning skin, abnormal hair or skin growth, vision problems, irregular heartbeat, symptoms of stomach bleeding, or red or purple skin spots.

In rare cases, serious liver problems may occur, so contact your doctor immediately if you experience persistent nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or dark urine. Additionally, look out for symptoms of a severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, and seek emergency medical help if they occur. While these are not exhaustive lists of side effects, they cover the most significant potential reactions to this medication. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

When taking methylprednisolone (Medrol), be aware that it may interact with other medications or supplements. It's important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you are currently using, whether they are prescribed, over-the-counter, vitamins, or herbal products.

Certain drugs should not be taken with methylprednisolone, such as desmopressin and the live rotavirus vaccine, as these combinations can be harmful. In some cases, using methylprednisolone with other medications like aldesleukin, celecoxib, and various NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) is not recommended, but may be necessary. If so, your doctor might adjust the dosage or frequency to minimize risks.

Additionally, there are medications that can alter how methylprednisolone is processed in the body, potentially changing its effectiveness. These include azole antifungals like ketoconazole, macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, and HIV protease inhibitors like ritonavir.

Methylprednisolone can also interfere with specific lab tests, potentially leading to incorrect results. Ensure all your healthcare providers are aware that you are taking this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance and do not stop taking any prescribed medication without consulting them first.