After reading through many posts, it seems that most of you who are on supplemental corticosteroid therapy are taking Prednisone. My rheumatologist has always prescribed Medrol, and I'm wondering if anyone knows the difference (if there is any) in the efficacy of one over the other.
Thanks!
Gale
Gale, my sister who has OA takes Medrol and from what she told me it is a brand name for prednisone and is more expensive, She uses it though because she says it is easier on her stomach and the other side effects are less than regular prednisone. She also said it may all be in her head,LOL. Good luck...
I just did a little research on the two medications, and basically didn't find out anything other than what I already knew. While prednisone can only be administered orally, Methylprednisolone (Medrol) can be used orally, intramuscularly, and intravenously.
What I didn't know, is that in terms of equivalence, Methylprednisolone 4 mgs = Prednisone 5 mgs, and there are no significant differences in effects and side-effects.
Just curious as to why my rheumatologist uses Medrol instead of Prednisone for long term use. The only time I've heard of anyone using Medrol is when they are on it short term, as in a Medrol Dose Pack. I really don't know of anyone (except myself) who is on it as adjuvant treatment for RA though. Guess I'll just have to ask my rheumatologist why he prefers it over Prednisone. Curious minds (MINE) want to know! LOL