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Compare Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

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

Key takeaways

Methylprednisolone (Medrol) and dexamethasone are both corticosteroids used to treat various inflammatory and immune-related conditions. Methylprednisolone is available as oral tablets and injections, while dexamethasone comes in oral tablets, oral solutions, and injections. Dexamethasone is a long-acting corticosteroid, meaning its effects last longer than methylprednisolone. The typical starting oral dose for methylprednisolone ranges from 4 mg to 48 mg per day, whereas dexamethasone's starting dose ranges from 0.75 mg to 9 mg per day for adults. Both medications can cause side effects like weight gain, high blood sugar, and weakened bones with long-term use, but dexamethasone is considered stronger and has a higher risk of causing trouble sleeping and headaches. Additionally, both medications require careful management to avoid withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.

Methylprednisolone (Medrol)
Dexamethasone
Methylprednisolone (Medrol)
Dexamethasone
Summary of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone
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.
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.
Indications of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone
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

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
Pros and Cons of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone
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

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
Common Side Effects of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone
Common Side Effects for

•Swelling

•Muscle weakness

•Stomach pain

•Bloating

•Increased appetite

•Trouble sleeping

•Weight gain

•Dizziness

Common Side Effects for

•Difficulty sleeping

•Higher blood sugar levels

•Headache

•Mood swings

•Nausea

•Stomach pain

•Feeling more hungry

•Weight gain
Warnings of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone
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

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
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Compare Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

Key takeaways

Summary of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

Indications of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

Pros and Cons of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

Common Side Effects of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

Warnings of Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

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