The injectable prescription medication Solu-Medrol contains the corticosteroid drug methylprednisolone sodium succinate, which doctors prescribe to treat numerous conditions caused by the immune system such as rheumatoid arthritis, severe allergic reactions and psoriasis. Despite its effectiveness, Solu-Medrol poses a risk for side effects.

Types

Side effects of Solu-Medrol include injection site reactions such as pain, redness or thinning of your skin. Other side effects include changes in menstruation, headaches, nausea and vomiting.

Drug Interactions

When taken with the immunosuppressant drug cyclosporine, Solu-Medrol may cause convulsions, and poses a risk for severe reactions when taken with aspirin regularly for long periods of time, cautions the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Both the antibiotic troleandomycin and the antifungal ketoconazole increase your risk of developing side effects from Solu-Medrol.

Risks

Because Solu-Medrol suppresses your immune system, there is an increased risk for viral, bacterial and fungal infections associated with its use. Other risks associated with the drug include congestive heart failure, tendon ruptures, digestive ulcers, intestinal perforation, glaucoma and diabetes, warns the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Considerations

Corticosteroid drugs like Solu-Medrol may inhibit the growth of children when used for prolonged periods of time. If you are pregnant, recently received a vaccine or have a history of tuberculosis, liver disease, hypothyroidism, ocular herpes, diverticulitis, colitis, osteoporosis or hypertension, it may not be safe for you to take Solu-Medrol.

Warning

If used for long periods of time, suddenly discontinuing use of Solu-Medrol may result in adrenal gland failure. Because of this, you should never stop using the drug without first consulting your doctor, warns the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

U.S. National Library of Medicine Daily Med: SOLU-MEDROL (methylprednisolone sodium succinate) injection, powder, for solution

Mayo Clinic: Prednisone and other corticosteroids-Balance the Risks and Benefits