Methylprednisolone Acetate Inj
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Intermediate-acting corticosteroid for anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapy; intra-articular injection (Depo-Medrol) for joint inflammation.
Intermediate-acting synthetic glucocorticoid (methylprednisolone acetate / sodium succinate). Mechanism: glucocorticoid receptor agonist → anti-inflammatory via NF-κB suppression, annexin-1 induction, phospholipase A2 inhibition. Acetate ester (Depo-Medrol): depot injection with prolonged local action (weeks); sodium succinate: soluble IV form for acute/emergency use. ~5× potency of cortisol.
Key information
Corticosteroid depot injection (Depo-Medrol). Long-acting — HPA suppression for weeks. Do not use IV rapidly. Competition withdrawal required. Intra-articular use: aseptic technique critical.
How to Give this Medication
IV (sodium succinate): dilute in compatible IV fluid; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. IM (acetate depot): inject deep IM for systemic depot effect. Intra-articular (acetate): aseptic technique; inject into joint space. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
HPA axis suppression, immunosuppression, PU/PD/PP, muscle wasting, GI ulceration, laminitis (horses — depot form). Behavioral changes, delayed wound healing, hypertension. Intra-articular depot: cartilage damage with repeated use, post-injection flare. Osteoporosis (prolonged systemic use).
Precautions
For animals
Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Laminitis risk in horses (depot ester). Avoid in pregnant animals. Intra-articular: aseptic technique; limit frequency. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Adrenal suppression — taper after prolonged systemic use.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Corticosteroid — avoid prolonged skin contact. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Wear gloves when handling.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Corticosteroid overdose causes immunosuppression, GI ulceration, and metabolic disturbances. Contact your vet immediately.
Methylprednisolone Acetate Inj dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| METHYLPREDNISOLONE ACETATE INJ 40MG/ML 10ML VIAL | 40 MG/ML | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
| METHYLPREDNISOLONE ACETATE INJ 40MG/ML 5ML VIAL | 40 MG/ML | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Corticosteroids in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)