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Compare Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Dexamethasone (Hemady) and methylprednisolone (Depo-Medrol, Medrol, Solu-Medrol) are both corticosteroids used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Dexamethasone is available as oral tablets, solutions, and injections, while methylprednisolone is available as oral tablets and injections. Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid, meaning its effects last longer compared to methylprednisolone. Both medications can cause side effects like weight gain, trouble sleeping, and stomach issues, but dexamethasone is more likely to cause mood swings and higher blood sugar levels. Methylprednisolone is available in a convenient dose pack that organizes tablets into specific days and times, which can make it easier to follow your treatment plan. Both medications require a prescription and should not be stopped suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.

  • Dexamethasone
    Methylprednisolone (Medrol)
  • Dexamethasone
    Methylprednisolone (Medrol)

  • Summary of Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that's used to treat many inflammatory conditions, including allergic reactions and certain autoimmune conditions. If you've been taking dexamethasone for a long time, you're at higher risk for side effects like weight gain and weakened bones. Dexamethasone also has many drug interactions, so make sure to tell your provider and pharmacist what medications you're taking before starting this steroid. This medication is available as oral tablets and solutions, as well as an injection that's usually given in a healthcare setting.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Methylprednisolone (Medrol) is a steroid medication used to treat different medical conditions with an overactive immune system. It's typically available by prescription as tablets. And it sometimes comes in a dose pack, which helps you organize the tablets into specific days and times. If you use methylprednisolone (Medrol) for a long time, it might cause certain side effects, such as weight gain, skin thinning, and high blood sugar.

  • Indications of Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

    Indications for
    •Allergies and allergic reactions
    •Skin conditions
    •Hormone-related conditions
    •Eye conditions
    •Stomach conditions
    •Respiratory disorders
    •Autoimmune and rheumatic conditions
    •Multiple myeloma (Hemady brand only), blood cancers, and other blood-related conditions
    •Certain eye conditions
    •Nervous system and brain conditions
    •Kidney diseases
    •Shock
    Indications for

    Methylprednisolone (Medrol) is used for many different medical conditions, including:

    •Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
    •Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
    •Lupus
    •Skin conditions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
    •Allergic reactions
    •Eye inflammation
    •Lung problems
    •Conditions related to blood cells
    •Cancer of blood cells (e.g., leukemia)
    •Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)
    •Multiple sclerosis

  • Pros and Cons of Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Can treat many conditions
    •Works quickly to relieve symptoms and problems caused by an overactive immune system, like swelling or rash
    •Option to take it by mouth
    •Available as a liquid for children or people who can't take tablets by mouth
    Cons
    •Can cause trouble sleeping and headaches
    •Long-term use can cause problems with skin, bone, eye health and put you at a higher risk for infections
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking too suddenly
    •Safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding isn't clear
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Also available in an easy-to-follow dose pack that organizes tablets into specific days and times
    Cons
    •Long-term use might weaken your bones and cause high blood sugar
    •Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
    •Need to slowly lower your dose if you take it for a long time

  • Common Side Effects of Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Difficulty sleeping
    •Higher blood sugar levels
    •Headache
    •Mood swings
    •Nausea
    •Stomach pain
    •Feeling more hungry
    •Weight gain
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling
    •Muscle weakness
    •Stomach pain
    •Bloating
    •Increased appetite
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Weight gain
    •Dizziness

  • Warnings of Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Lowered stress hormone levels
    •Higher risk of infections
    •High blood pressure and kidney-related problems
    •Stomach and intestinal problems
    •Weakened bones
    •Eye problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •New or worsened infection
    •Mood and behavior changes
    •Reduced adrenal gland function
    •Changes in heart and kidney function
    •Stomach problems
    •Bone problems with long-term use
    •Eye problems with long-term use
    •High blood sugar

  • Prices with our coupons for Dexamethasone vs. Methylprednisolone

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