Methylprednisolone

Steroid (oral or injection)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Methylprednisolone is a steroid (oral or injection) found in 11 medicines sold in India, such as Medrol 8, Medrol 16, Zempred 8. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Reduces inflammation in allergies, asthma, arthritis and many other conditions.

How it works

A strong steroid given as tablets or injections for flares of autoimmune conditions, MS, severe asthma and allergy.

How to take it

Tablets in the morning with food, tapered as advised. Injections given in hospital.

Common side effects

  • Raised sugar
  • Mood changes
  • Weight gain
  • Trouble sleeping

Get medical help straight away if

  • Infections
  • Black stools
  • Vision changes

Be careful

Do not stop suddenly after long use; raises blood sugar.

Other medicines and interactions

Same cautions as prednisolone.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your doctor; used in pregnancy when clearly needed.

Brands of Methylprednisolone (11)

Depotex 8Dispred 8Ivepred 8Macpred 8Medrol 16Medrol 8Mepresso T 8Predace 8Rednisol 8Sterio 8Zempred 8

Common questions

What is Methylprednisolone used for?

Reduces inflammation in allergies, asthma, arthritis and many other conditions.

How does Methylprednisolone work?

A strong steroid given as tablets or injections for flares of autoimmune conditions, MS, severe asthma and allergy.

How should I take Methylprednisolone?

Tablets in the morning with food, tapered as advised. Injections given in hospital.

What are the side effects of Methylprednisolone?

Common: Raised sugar, mood changes, weight gain, trouble sleeping. Get help straight away for: Infections, black stools, vision changes.

Does Methylprednisolone interact with other medicines?

Same cautions as prednisolone.

Is Methylprednisolone safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor; used in pregnancy when clearly needed.

Does Methylprednisolone need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Methylprednisolone?

Depotex 8, Dispred 8, Ivepred 8, Macpred 8, Medrol 16, Medrol 8, Mepresso T 8, Predace 8, Rednisol 8, Sterio 8, Zempred 8.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.