About methylprednisolone acetate
Long-acting injectable corticosteroid
Used for
- Inflammatory joint conditions, including arthritis
- Inflamed bursae or tendons
- Certain allergic or skin conditions
- Selected inflammatory conditions requiring injected corticosteroids
Usual adult dose
Varies by condition and injection site; joint injections commonly use 4–80 mg per joint.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-determined; doses vary by condition, age, and injection site.
Common side effects
- Injection-site pain or skin thinning
- Raised blood sugar
- Fluid retention or increased blood pressure
- Infection risk and adrenal suppression
Important warnings
- Not for intravenous or epidural injection.
- Injections into joints require sterile technique; avoid injecting infected areas.
- Repeated or high-dose use can weaken bones and suppress adrenal function.
- May mask infection and worsen some infections.
Pregnancy
Use only when benefits outweigh risks; prolonged or repeated use may affect fetal growth.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter milk; high doses can temporarily reduce milk supply.
Interactions
- Blood thinners may increase bleeding risk.
- Diabetes medicines may work less effectively.
- Live vaccines may cause infection during significant immunosuppression.
- Some antifungals and antibiotics can increase steroid effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.