PATIENT FACT SHEET Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol)
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Intravenous (IV) PATIENT FACT SHEET Methylprednisolone (Solu-medrol) Methylprednisolone is part of a potent class of anti- (intravenous, IV) for treatment of severe inflammation. inflammatory agents, known as corticosteroids. Examples of conditions where IV methylprednisolone Corticosteroids are used to treat many inflammatory is routinely used include lupus affecting the diseases. For example, the corticosteroid prednisone kidneys or brain and some types of vasculitis. IV is commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, methylprednisolone is also given as a “pre-medication” WHAT IS IT? vasculitis, dermatomyositis, and many other conditions. in lower doses to prevent infusion reactions to other Methylprednisolone is similar to prednisone but can medications such as rituximab. be given at higher doses as an infusion into a vein IV methylprednisolone is administered in a hospital or providers. The dosage and length of time of the infusion outpatient infusion center. First, an IV is placed (usually will be determined by your doctor. Some people require in the arm) and then the medication will be infused over slower infusions if they experience side effects during one to three hours under the supervision of health care the infusion. HOW TO TAKE IT Methylprednisolone can cause short-term and long-term If you need to take IV methylprednisolone or oral side effects. Side effects that can occur during or shortly prednisone on an ongoing basis, the long-term side after an infusion include blood-pressure changes, heart effects of corticosteroids include (but are not limited to) rate changes, irregular heart rate, electrolyte imbalances, weight gain, acne, thinning of skin, stretch marks, elevated elevated blood sugar, flushing of the skin, sweating, blood sugar, elevated cholesterol, peptic ulcers, cataracts, metallic taste, difficulty sleeping, mood or behavior glaucoma, weight gain, decreased bone density, increased changes, psychosis, seizures, increased susceptibility to risk of osteonecrosis of the bone, growth suppression, SIDE EFFECTS infection and anaphylaxis (serious allergic reaction). muscle wasting and increased susceptibility to infection. Tell your doctor if you are concerned you may be a scheduled infusion, notify your doctor. Talk to your experiencing any side effects, or if you develop a fever doctor about which vaccines are appropriate for you. If or any new symptoms after starting this medication, as it you are pregnant or are considering pregnancy, discuss may cause an increased risk for infection. If you miss this with your doctor before starting medication. TELL YOUR DOCTOR Written March 2019 by the Pediatric Rheumatology Special Committee, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology © 2019 American College of Rheumatology Communications and Marketing Committee. This information is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition. www.ACRPatientInfo.org.