From the FDA Drug Label
In acute severe dermatitis due to poison ivy, relief may result within 8 to 12 hours following intramuscular administration of a single dose of 80 to 120 mg.
The recommended dose of Depo Medrol (methylprednisolone) administered intramuscularly (IM) for the treatment of severe poison ivy reactions is 80 to 120 mg as a single dose, with relief expected within 8 to 12 hours 1.
From the Research
For severe poison ivy reactions, the recommended dose of Depo Medrol (methylprednisolone) administered intramuscularly is typically 40-80 mg as a single injection, as supported by clinical practice guidelines and expert recommendations 2. This dosage may vary based on the severity of the reaction and the patient's body weight, with some clinicians using a weight-based approach of approximately 1 mg/kg. The medication works by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation associated with the allergic contact dermatitis caused by urushiol, the oil in poison ivy that triggers the reaction. Key considerations in the treatment of severe poison ivy reactions include:
- The use of systemic corticosteroids, such as Depo Medrol, for more severe cases where local treatment is insufficient 3, 4
- The potential benefits of a longer course of treatment, as suggested by a study comparing short and long courses of oral prednisone 5
- The importance of monitoring patients for potential side effects, including elevated blood glucose, mood changes, and increased susceptibility to infection After administration, patients should begin to experience relief within 24-48 hours as the medication reduces itching, swelling, and redness. This is generally a one-time dose, though in severe or persistent cases, a follow-up dose may be considered after 1-2 weeks. It's essential to note that oral steroids like prednisone are often preferred for less severe cases, with IM Depo Medrol typically reserved for more extensive or severe reactions where rapid relief is needed or oral medication is not feasible. Recent studies, such as the 2022 retrospective claims-based analysis, highlight the importance of appropriate treatment duration and the potential consequences of undertreatment, including increased healthcare utilization 2.