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Medrol vs. Dexamethasone

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.

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

• Swelling
• Muscle weakness
• Stomach pain
• Bloating
• Increased appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight gain
• Dizziness

• 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

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.

• 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

• Difficulty sleeping
• Higher blood sugar levels
• Headache
• Mood swings
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Feeling more hungry
• Weight gain

• Lowered stress hormone levels
• Higher risk of infections
• High blood pressure and kidney-related problems
• Stomach and intestinal problems
• Weakened bones
• Eye problems