Methylprednisolone – Medrol Dosepak

The following information is NOT meant to be used to treat yourself or patients

Generic name = methylprednisolone

Trade name = Medrol Dosepak (Methylprednisolone Dose Pack)

Note:  methylprednisolone also comes as Depo-Medrol and Solu-Medrol

Class = corticosteroid anti-inflammatory

Mechanism of Action

• As an anti-inflammatory, it blocks phospholipase A2, which leads to decreased production and expression of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX-1 & COX-2) and thus production of prostaglandins.

Advantages

• Relatively inexpensive
• Strong anti-inflammatory effects

Adverse Effects

• Heart palpitations, insomnia, irritable, increased blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, increased appetite

Dosing (according to the packaging) – 4-mg tablets

• 6-day tapering course:  6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 pill(s) for a total of 21 tablets
• Day 1:  (2) tablets before breakfast, (1) after lunch, (1) after dinner, (2) at bedtime [24-mg]
• Day 2:  (1) before breakfast, (1) after lunch, (1) after dinner, (2) at bedtime [20-mg]
• Day 3:  (1) before breakfast, (1) after lunch, (1) after dinner, (1) at bedtime [16-mg]
• Day 4:  (1) before breakfast, (1) after lunch, (1) at bedtime [12-mg]
• Day 5:  (1) before breakfast, (1) at bedtime [8-mg]
• Day 6:  (1) before breakfast [4-mg]
• Note:  If patient’s get the dose pack later in the day, it is okay to take all six (6) tablets at once or in divided doses so they are all consumed the first day.  Then have the patient start on the package instructions for day 2.