Depo-Medrol® (methylprednisolone)

Methylprednisolone acetate

This product is a glucocorticoid. It is therefore an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent.

Methylprednisolone is used to control inflammation and to reduce the activity of the immune system. It is also used when the corticosteroid producing gland does not produce enough.  

Do not use, except under the supervision of a veterinarian, if your pet is suffering from a viral infection, tuberculosis, stomach ulcer, acute psychosis, corneal ulcer, diabetes , osteoporosis, a predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, congestive heart failure, renal failure, generalized fungal infection, or idiopathic thrombocytopenia.  

They are usually observed in patients under long-term treatment or who receive high doses of methylprednisolone. Patients taking this medication may urinate, drink or eat more frequently. It is also possible, but uncommon, to observe weight gain, bleeding from the digestive system, a change in behavior, such as decreased activity or depression, diarrhea, fresh blood or black  stool, decreased appetite or stunted growth in young animals.Your pet may also worsen or develop diabetes. In dogs, it is also possible to observe a drier coat than usual, panting, vomiting or loss of muscle mass. Your dog may also develop pancreatitis, a stomach ulcer, or a liver problem. If your pet has serious, worsening or persistent adverse effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.

It is important to monitor if your pet's condition is improving or if there are any side effects. When used long-term, it is highly recommended that your veterinarian follow-up to, among other things, assess the glucose level in his blood, as well as the proper functioning of his liver and kidneys.  
Interactions with other medicinal products: Do not use methylprednisolone acetate unless advised by a veterinarian, if your animal is taking an anticholinesterase agent, amphotericin B, an analgesic, a local anesthetic, an anti non-steroidal inflammatory drug, a macrolide antibiotic, aspirin, barbiturate, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, diuretic, ephedrine, insulin, ketoconazole , mitotane , estrogen, opioid, phenobarbital, rifampin orwarfarin . Methylprednisolone can also decrease the immune response to vaccines.

At room temperature, excess heat or cold should be avoided. After reconstituting the drug, it should be used within 48 hours and if the product is not clear, do not use it.  

Do not exceed the dose recommended by your veterinarian, as this may increase the risk of side effects. It is also important to stop the drug gradually and not abruptly. Respect the expiry date of the product, as an expired product may be less effective or potentially harmful to your pet's health.   * Keep out of the reach of children and animals. *