From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The initial dosage of methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4 mg to 48 mg of methylprednisolone per day, depending on the specific disease entity being treated. The treatment regimen for a Medrol (methylprednisolone) pack for shoulder pain and inflammation is not explicitly stated in the FDA drug label. However, the label does provide general dosage information, which may be useful for guiding treatment.
- The initial dosage of methylprednisolone tablets may vary from 4 mg to 48 mg per day.
- The dosage should be individualized based on the disease being treated and the patient's response.
- The goal is to find the lowest dosage that maintains an adequate clinical response.
- It is recommended to gradually withdraw the drug after long-term therapy rather than stopping it abruptly 1.
From the Research
A typical Medrol (methylprednisolone) pack for shoulder pain and inflammation usually follows a tapering schedule over 6 days, as evidenced by a recent study 2 that demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing pain and opioid consumption after total shoulder arthroplasty. The standard regimen begins with 6 tablets (24mg) on day one, 5 tablets (20mg) on day two, 4 tablets (16mg) on day three, 3 tablets (12mg) on day four, 2 tablets (8mg) on day five, and 1 tablet (4mg) on day six. Take the medication with food to minimize stomach irritation, and distribute the doses throughout the day as directed on the package. Complete the entire course even if symptoms improve before finishing. While using the Medrol pack, you should also rest the affected shoulder, apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times daily, and avoid activities that worsen the pain. Methylprednisolone works by reducing inflammation through suppressing the immune response and decreasing production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. This medication provides relatively quick relief, often within 1-2 days, but is intended for short-term use due to potential side effects with prolonged steroid use, including increased blood sugar, mood changes, and stomach irritation, as noted in various studies 3, 4, 5, 6. It's essential to follow the prescribed regimen and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions. Some studies suggest that methylprednisolone may be more effective when used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physiotherapy and NSAIDs 6. However, the most recent and highest-quality study 2 supports the use of a 6-day methylprednisolone taper course as an effective addition to multimodal pain regimens after total shoulder arthroplasty. Therefore, it is recommended to follow the standard 6-day tapering schedule of the Medrol pack, as it provides a balanced approach to managing shoulder pain and inflammation while minimizing potential side effects.