What is the brand name for Methylprednisolone?
The brand name for Methylprednisolone is Medrol.
PTCE Top 200 · #135
Methylprednisolone
Medrol
Methylprednisolone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Medrol. It is a corticosteroid (systemic) used to treat inflammation, allergies. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Methylprednisolone ranks #135 and is one of the most frequently tested pain/inflammation medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Methylprednisolone |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Medrol |
| Drug class | Corticosteroid (systemic) |
| Class group | Pain/Inflammation |
| Common use | inflammation, allergies |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Methylprednisolone used for?
Anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressant corticosteroid for a wide range of conditions (e.g., asthma exacerbations, allergic reactions, autoimmune flares).
What drug class is Methylprednisolone?
Methylprednisolone is a Corticosteroid (systemic) in the Pain/Inflammation group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Methylprednisolone
- arrow_rightIncreased appetite
- arrow_rightMood changes
- arrow_rightInsomnia
- arrow_rightHyperglycemia
- arrow_rightFluid retention
- arrow_rightIndigestion
Major interactions
- arrow_rightNSAIDs → increased GI ulcer/bleeding risk
- arrow_rightLive vaccines → risk of infection (avoid at immunosuppressive doses)
- arrow_rightCYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) → ↑ steroid exposure
- arrow_rightDiuretics → hypokalemia risk
- arrow_rightWarfarin → variable INR (monitor)
Is Methylprednisolone a controlled substance?
No. Methylprednisolone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Methylprednisolone (PTCE mnemonic)
MED-rol = 'MEDi-pack' for inflammation — methylprednisolone is intermediate-acting steroid (Medrol Dosepak tapers over 6 days). 'BBC' Cushing's; ↑glucose, ulcers, osteoporosis; never stop abruptly.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
The Medrol Dosepak is a built-in steroid taper — recognizing 'taper, don't stop abruptly' packaging is the exam's favorite methylprednisolone angle.
Methylprednisolone FAQ
What is Methylprednisolone used for?
Methylprednisolone is used to treat inflammation, allergies. Anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressant corticosteroid for a wide range of conditions (e.g., asthma exacerbations, allergic reactions, autoimmune flares).
What drug class is Methylprednisolone?
Methylprednisolone is a Corticosteroid (systemic) (Pain/Inflammation group).
Is Methylprednisolone a controlled substance?
No. Methylprednisolone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group
Drill Methylprednisolone the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).