Methylprednisolone Injectable Suspension (METHYLPREDNISOLONE ACETATE SUSPENSION - INJECTION)

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be milky in appearance.

Do not use the medicine if it contains any particles or if it has changed color.

Shake the medicine well before use.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

This medicine may affect the strength of your bones. If you have or are at increased risk for osteoporosis (weakening of the bones), your doctor may recommend foods with calcium and vitamin D.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• acne
• agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
• increased appetite
• dizziness
• headaches
• high blood sugar
• high blood pressure
• pain, redness, swelling near injection
• nausea and vomiting
• stomach upset or abdominal pain
• sweating

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding or bruising
• severe or persistent bone, joint or jaw pain
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• depression or feeling sad
• swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
• fever or chills
• hair growth
• fast or irregular heart beats
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
• mood changes
• muscle weakness
• small red, purple or brown spots on the skin
• seizures
• thinning of the skin
• dark, tarry stool
• excessive thirst
• yeast infection of mouth
• increased urinary frequency
• vaginal itching or yeast infection
• blurring or changes of vision
• sudden or unexplained weight gain
• slow wound healing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.