- Solu-Medrol is one brand name for the generic medication methylprednisolone sodium succinate. It is a member of the glucocorticoids, similar to the naturally occurring steroid hormone cortisol, and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Solu-Medrol is available as an injectable solution for intravenous and intramuscular injection and is also available in another brand name, A-Methapred. Methyprednisolone is a synthetic analog of a physiologic hormone cortisol and works by substituting for cortisol in physiologic processes. It acts by inhibiting leukocyte infiltration at and inflammation site and interfering with other mediators of inflammatory response such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins causing a decreased immune response to inflammation of any type.
- Though glucocorticoids may be used for replacement in adrenal deficiency disorders where the body is not manufacturing enough cortisol, Solu-Medrol is used mainly for its anti-inflammatory effects. Diseases such as asthma, shock, infections and severe allergic reactions may require the short-term use of Solu-Medrol. Other conditions such as inflammatory and rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Psoriasis and Collitis which are caused by an over active immune system may require the long-term use of Solu-Medrol. All glucocorticoids have a number of adverse effects including four major areas: electrolyte disturbances, increased risk for infection, ophthalmic disorders and potential adrenal insufficiency.
- Solu-Medrol may cause increases in salt and water retention resulting in increased blood pressure and loss of potassium and calcium. Consequently, dietary salt should be limited, and dietary potassium and calcium should be increased. These electrolyte disturbances can result in cardiac and kidney disturbances and electrolyte levels should be monitored regularly during chronic use. The electrolyte disruptions caused by Solu-Medrol are thought to play a role in potential changes in mood state ranging from euphoria or depression to frank psychosis.
- Because inflammation is the first line in defending against infection, Solu-Medrol's anti-inflammatory activity may lead to decreased resistance to infection and reduction in the inflammatory response resulting in a masking of the signs of infection. People who are on other immune suppressing medications will have an exponentially increased risk of infections and live vaccinations should not be given during treatment with Solu-Medrol. Prolonged use of Solu-Medrol may increase the risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma and possible damage to optic nerve. Solu-Medrol may also increase chance of ophthalmic infection, including viral and fungal infection that may be difficult to treat.
- Solu-Medrol is a catabolic substance meaning that it breaks down and prevents muscle growth and increases fat storage. Long-term use of Solu-Medrol may produce symptoms of inappropriate fat storage in the shoulders, abdomen and cheeks of the face similar to Addison's Disease and may have an adverse effect on muscle development and growth of children and infants. Long-term use of Solu-Medrol may cause secondary adrenocortical insufficiency and tapering off of large doses may be required to allow the body to begin to secrete cortisol as normal.
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