What is the brand name for Methylprednisolone?
The brand name for Methylprednisolone is Medrol.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Methylprednisolone
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
How to read a prescriptionevery field on a prescription, decoded
Pharmacy math cheat sheetthe five calculation types the PTCE asksSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Methylprednisolone the way the PTCE asks it
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Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group
Written and reviewed by the RxReflex Content Team. 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).