Depo Medrol Injection (Methylprednisolone acetate)

Do’s

• Before using Depo-Medrol, ensure it is thoroughly shaken.
• This medication is typically administered by a healthcare provider. It is usually injected into a joint, muscle, or abnormal skin tissue.
• Carefully follow your healthcare provider's directions for the dosage and administration of Depo-Medrol. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment
• If you are using this medication at home, learn all the preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare provider. Additionally, visually inspect the medication for any particles or discoloration before use.
• If the medication is injected into a joint, be cautious with the amount of pressure you put on that joint, even if it feels better. Consult your healthcare provider regarding the appropriate movement/use of the joint during the healing process.
• If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, and dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience withdrawal symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Don’ts 

• If particles or discoloration are present, do not use the liquid.
• Do not stop using this medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as some conditions may worsen if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Common Side Effects: 

• Blurred vision
• Tunnel vision
• Eye pain
• Seeing halos around lights
• Chest pain
• Breathlessness
• Chemical imbalances in the blood
• Swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Masking of infections
• Increased risk of infection
• Hormone changes
• Metabolic changes
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Increased blood pressure
• Increased number of white blood cells (leucocytosis)
• Cataracts
• Rise in blood sugar
• Lowered ability to fight infections

Serious Side Effects: 

• Allergic reactions, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Depo-Medrol.

Discuss any potential side effects with your healthcare provider and seek their guidance if you experience any adverse reactions.

Depo-Medrol is contraindicated for intrathecal administration. Severe medical events have been associated with the intrathecal/epidural routes of administration.

Depo-Medrol is contraindicated in systemic fungal infections, except when administered as an intra-articular injection for localized joint conditions.

Depo-Medrol vials are intended for single-dose use only. Any multidose use of the product may lead to contamination.

Serious neurologic events, some resulting in death, have been reported with epidural injection of corticosteroids. The safety and effectiveness of epidural administration of corticosteroids have not been established, and corticosteroids are not approved for this use.

Injection of Depo-Medrol may result in dermal and/or subdermal changes forming depressions in the skin at the injection site. Care must be exercised not to exceed recommended doses in injections to minimize the incidence of dermal and subdermal atrophy.

Suitable sites for intra-articular injection include specific joints, and precautions should be taken to avoid large blood vessels in the area.

Discuss these warnings and precautions with a healthcare provider before using Depo-Medrol.