What are the contraindications of Methylprednisolone (Intramuscular)?

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Last updated: February 11, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Methylprednisolone (Intramuscular) is contraindicated in patients with conditions that could be worsened by systemic corticosteroids.

Contraindications

  • Consideration should be given to coexisting conditions that could be worsened by systemic corticosteroids, such as peptic ulcer and aseptic necrosis 1.

Important Considerations

  • Repository injection (Methylprednisolone acetate) may be used in place of a short burst of oral steroids in patients who are vomiting or if adherence is a problem, but caution should be exercised in patients with certain coexisting conditions 1.
  • Patients should be closely monitored for potential adverse effects, including reversible abnormalities in glucose metabolism, increased appetite, fluid retention, weight gain, facial flushing, mood alteration, hypertension, and rarely aseptic necrosis 1.
  • The dose of Methylprednisolone acetate is 7.5 mg/kg IM once for children and 240 mg IM once for adults 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

DEPO-MEDROL is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the product and its constituents. Intramuscular corticosteroid preparations are contraindicated for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. DEPO-MEDROL is contraindicated for intrathecal administration. This formulation of methylprednisolone acetate has been associated with reports of severe medical events when administered by this route. DEPO-MEDROL is contraindicated in systemic fungal infections, except when administered as an intra-articular injection for localized joint conditions

The contraindications of Methylprednisolone (Intramuscular) are:

  • Hypersensitivity to the product and its constituents
  • Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
  • Intrathecal administration
  • Systemic fungal infections, except when administered as an intra-articular injection for localized joint conditions 2

From the Research

Contraindications of Methylprednisolone (Intramuscular)

  • The provided studies do not directly address the contraindications of methylprednisolone when administered intramuscularly 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
  • However, it can be inferred that caution should be exercised when considering intramuscular methylprednisolone in patients with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications, as is the case with other corticosteroids.
  • One study mentions that known contraindications should be considered when using pulsed steroid therapy, which includes intramuscular methylprednisolone 6.
  • Another study discusses the importance of considering contraindications and precautions when using intra-articular methylprednisolone acetate injections, which may also be relevant to intramuscular administration 5.
  • Specific contraindications are not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it is likely that they would be similar to those for other corticosteroids, such as active infections, peptic ulcers, and certain psychiatric conditions.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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