Methylprednisolone

Methylprednisolone In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• DNA transcription modification induces cellular metabolism changes, causing anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and anti-fibrotic effects.
• Additionally, it functions as an antagonist of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) in canines.

Uses of Methylprednisolone

• The anti-inflammatory substance in question exhibits a potency that is five times more than that of hydrocortisone, and a potency that surpasses prednisolone by 20%.
• 0.8 mg of methylprednisolone is equivalent to 1 mg of prednisolone.
• The oral administration of methylprednisolone is appropriate for alternate-day dosing.
• The utilisation of steroids in the treatment of shock and severe spinal cord injury is a subject of contention within the medical community, with a significant number of professionals opting against their administration.
• The administration of steroids has a quick drop in efficacy following the occurrence of shock or injury, but the negative effects of their use remain consistent and potentially significant.
• It is recommended to gradually reduce the dosage to the minimum effective level.
• It is recommended to gradually reduce the dosage of steroids while terminating chronic therapy in animals.

Dose of Methylprednisolone in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Inflammation: initially 1.1 mg/kg i.m. (methylprednisolone acetate depot injection) q1–3wk or 0.2–0.5 mg/kg p.o. q12h.
• Hypoadrenocorticism (acute crisis): 1 mg/kg i.v. once daily until oral supplement started.
• Immunosuppression: 1–3 mg/kg p.o. q12h reducing to 1–2 mg/ kg p.o. q48h.

Cats:

• Asthma: 1–2 mg/kg (depot injection) i.m. q1–3wk.
• Inflammation/flea allergy: 5 mg/kg i.m. (depot injection) every 2 months or 1 mg/kg p.o. q24h reducing to 2–5 mg/cat p.o. q48h.

Side Effects of Methylprednisolone in Dogs and Cats

• Prolonged administration leads to the inhibition of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and results in the degeneration of the adrenal glands.
• The use of glucocorticoids has catabolic effects, resulting in both weight loss and cutaneous atrophy.
• Prolonged administration can lead to development of iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism.
• The occurrence of vomiting and diarrhoea may be observed, potentially leading to the development of gastrointestinal ulcers.
• Glucocorticoids have the potential to elevate glucose levels in urine and reduce the levels of serum T3 and T4.
• Impaired wound healing and prolonged recovery from infections may manifest as observed clinical outcomes.

Contraindications of Methylprednisolone in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use it in pregnant animals.
• Systemic corticosteroids are generally contraindicated in patients with renal disease and diabetes mellitus.

Some Notes:

• There is an increased risk of GI ulceration if used concurrently with NSAIDs.
• Hypokalaemia may develop if amphotericin B or potassium-depleting diuretics (furosemide, thiazides) are administered concomitantly with corticosteroids.
• Insulin requirements are likely to increase in patients taking glucocorticoids.
• The metabolism of corticosteroids may be enhanced by phenobarbital or phenytoin and decreased by antifungals (e.g. itraconazole).