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Methylprednisolone Acetate

Detailed information about Methylprednisolone Acetate

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Pet Owner Quick Guide

Start here: what this medicine is for, what it does, and when it's usually needed.

Usually used for:

Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in dogs; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in dogs; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in dogs.

What it does:

Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in dogs; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in dogs; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in dogs. Treatment of inflammat...

When it's needed:

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animal...

Call your vet sooner if you notice:

  • Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis,

Commonly reported reactions:

  • (2 reports)
  • (2 reports)
  • (2 reports)

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Methylprednisolone Acetate

Methylprednisolone Acetate

Drug type: Generic ingredient • Branded profile FDA branded products available

Species: Both

Manufacturer: MSK

Quick Facts

Official label facts first, then secondary summaries. Marketing content is separated below.

Species: Both
Manufacturer: MSK
Form: Liquid (Suspension)
Identifiers:
NADA: 12204 NADA: 136212 NDC Package: 54771-1613-1 NDC Package: 54771-1614-1 NDC Product: 54771
Source metadata:

Warnings / Contraindications

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis,

  • High: Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis,
Source metadata:

Adverse Reactions

Snapshot first, detailed rows second. This section summarizes signal data and is not a diagnosis.

Tap or hover a reaction to see what it means in plain language.

Tracked signals
32
Reported cases
32
Serious reports
22
Species represented
2
Most Reported Reactions
Reaction Cases Species Serious cases
2 Cat, Dog 2
2 Cat, Dog 2
2 Cat, Dog 1
1 Dog 1
1 Dog 1
1 Dog 1
1 Dog 1
1 Dog 1

Species coverage: Dog (19) Cat (13)

View detailed reaction table
Reaction Species Seriousness Frequency Reports
Cat Non-serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Serious - 1
Dog Serious - 1
Cat Non-serious - 1
Source metadata:

Storage & Handling

No storage/handling guidance is linked yet.

Source metadata: No source yet.

Documents

Official label facts are separated from secondary summaries.

Official documents: 2 • Secondary summaries: 0

Official label facts
Secondary summaries

No source yet.

Promotional Materials (Marketing)

This content is marketing material and not clinical guidance.

No marketing assets are linked yet.

No source yet.

Source metadata: No source yet.
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Technical appendix (vet reference)

Canonical medication sections are above. This legacy block remains available for deeper cross-reference without cluttering the primary workflow.

At a Glance

Quick facts and links to official labeling and safety signals.

Data freshness
  • Medication catalog: Source PetWisePlus | Refreshed Feb 12, 2026, 10:44 PM UTC
  • Animal Drugs @ FDA: Source FDA | Refreshed Feb 16, 2026, 11:00 AM UTC
    Applications/products are imported from FDA export data.
  • Animal Drugs @ FDA previews: Source FDA | Refreshed Feb 9, 2026, 3:05 AM UTC
    Label highlights/doc links are fetched from FDA preview endpoints.
  • Animal Drug Product Listing Directory (NDC): Source FDA | Refreshed Feb 16, 2026, 11:00 AM UTC
    Package/product NDCs from FDA’s electronic listing directory (XLS).
  • openFDA reaction terms: Source FDA openFDA | Refreshed Feb 16, 2026, 11:03 AM UTC
  • openFDA case summaries: Source FDA openFDA | Refreshed Feb 9, 2026, 3:21 AM UTC
Official (FDA)
Identity: Generic ingredient • FDA branded products available
Official FDA brands: Depo-Medrol® Methylprednisolone Acetate Inj.
Case-reported brands (openFDA): MSK
Catalog species: Both FDA-labeled species: Cat, Dog, Horse, Restricted During Pregnancy
Rx/OTC: RX
Form/route: Liquid (Suspension) Intramuscular, Intrasynovial
Applications: NADA 12204 • NADA 136-212
Documents: • SPL: 2 Label highlights Official documents
Safety (openFDA)
Top reactions: Dog 56 Cat 56 View
Case summaries: 10 (showing 8) View
openFDA reports are unverified and do not prove causation.

Explore
Linked using: Fda_Label (0.95), Fda_Label (0.95), Fda_Label (0.95)

Diagnosis Codes
ICD10_CM: E11.9
Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications

Counseling and Monitoring Highlights

Global Pet owner/Vet mode is controlled in the header. This section avoids duplicate in-page persona tabs.

Owner-facing counseling points
  • Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, (Contraindication, High)
Top reaction signals
Abnormal radiograph finding (1) Ataxia (1) Blood in vomit (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Decreased appetite (1) Dental calculus (1) Dermatitis (1) Diabetes (1) Diarrhoea (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Gastritis (1) Gastroenteritis (1) Glucosuria (1) Gut sounds increased (1) Head tilt - neurological disorder (see also Head tilt - ear disorder) (1) Hiding (1)

Identifiers & Packages

Normalized identifiers (NDC/NADA/ANADA) and package metadata from regulator listings.

Identifiers
NADA: 12204 NADA: 136212 NDC Package: 54771-1613-1 NDC Package: 54771-1614-1 NDC Product: 54771
Package NDC Product NDC Form / Route Status
54771-1613-1 54771 -
54771-1614-1 54771 -

Data Sources & Revision History

Every non-trivial field is expected to include provenance and update timestamps.

Official 3 Clinical 0 Manufacturer 0 Marketing 0
Current Field Facts
  • contraindications: Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that … (Official, 2026-02-12)
  • side_effects: Top reported reactions (openFDA): Lack of efficacy - NOS, Vomiting, Lethargy (see also Central nervous system depression in 'Neurological'), Anorexia, Weight l… (Official, 2026-02-12)
  • usage: Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in dogs; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in dogs; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial t… (Official, 2026-02-12)
Recent Revisions
  • side_effects updated 2026-02-12 22:44 by etl_backfill • Backfilled from existing medication fields
  • contraindications updated 2026-02-12 22:44 by etl_backfill • Backfilled from existing medication fields
  • usage updated 2026-02-12 22:44 by etl_backfill • Backfilled from existing medication fields

FDA Products & Applications (Animal Drugs @ FDA)

Official sponsor/proprietary-name/application-status records linked by active ingredient.

Product Sponsor Application Status Published
Depo-Medrol®
RX
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Liquid (Suspension) Intramuscular, Intrasynovial
Zoetis Inc. NADA 12204 Approved Dec 7, 2021
Methylprednisolone Acetate Inj.
RX
Methylprednisolone Acetate
Liquid (Suspension) Intramuscular, Intrasynovial
Cronus Pharma Specialities India Private Ltd. NADA 136-212 Approved Feb 1, 2018

Data source: FDA Animal Drugs @ FDA (public search export).

What It's For (FDA Label Highlights)

Extracted from FDA Animal Drugs @ FDA product labeling. Always confirm details with your veterinarian.

Species: Dog, Restricted During Pregnancy • Restricted During Pregnancy • Cat, Restricted During Pregnancy
Composition / specifications
Each milliliter of aqueous suspension contains 20 or 40 milligrams of methylprednisolone acetate.
Dogs
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in dogs; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in dogs; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in dogs.
Dosage
2 to 40 milligrams (up to 120 milligrams in extremely large breeds or dogs with severe involvement) intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary. Up to 20 milligrams intrasynovially. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.

Cats
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in cats; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in cats; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in cats.
Dosage
10 to 20 milligrams intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.

Horses
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in horses.
Dosage
200 milligrams intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary. 40 to 240 milligrams intrasynovially. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.

FDA page: Open in Animal Drugs @ FDA

Species: Dog, Restricted During Pregnancy • Horse, Restricted During Pregnancy • Horse, Not For Meat Production • Cat, Restricted During Pregnancy
Composition / specifications
Each milliliter of aqueous suspension contains 20 or 40 milligrams of methylprednisolone acetate.
Dogs
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections.
Dosage
2 to 40 milligrams (up to 120 milligrams in extremely large breeds or dogs with severe involvement) intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary. Or up to 20 milligrams intrasynovially. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations
Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.
Cats
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections.
Dosage
10 to 20 milligrams intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations
Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.
Horses
Indication
Treatment of inflammation and related disorders.
Dosage
200 milligrams intramuscularly. Dosage may be repeated when necessary. Or 40 to 240 milligrams intrasynovially. Dosage may be repeated when necessary.
Limitations
Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately.

FDA page: Open in Animal Drugs @ FDA

Official Documents (FDA)

Direct links to FDA-hosted PDFs and SPL packages (when available).

SPL Packages

FDA page: Open in Animal Drugs @ FDA

Usage

Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in dogs; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in dogs; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in dogs. Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in cats; treatment of allergic and dermatologic disorders in cats; and as supportive therapy to antibacterial treatment of severe infections in cats. Treatment of inflammation and related disorders in horses.

Source: FDA Animal Drugs @ FDA • Reference

Contraindications

Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, and Cushing's syndrome. The presence of active tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, renal insufficiency, predisposition to thrombophlebitis hypertension, or congestive heart failure necessitates carefully controlled use of corticosteroids. Intrasynovial, intratendinous or other injections of corticosteroids for local effect are contraindicated in the presence of acute infectious conditions. Exacerbation of pain, further loss of joint motion, with fever and malaise following injection may indicate that the condition has become septic. Appropriate antibacterial therapy should be instituted immediately. Not for use in horses intended for food. Not for human use. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Clinical and experimental data have demonstrated that corticosteroids administered orally or parenterally to animals may induce the first stage of parturition when administered during the last trimester of pregnancy and may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta, and metritis. Systemic therapy with methylprednisolone acetate, as with other corticoids, is contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis,

Side Effects

No approved side-effect narrative is linked yet.

openFDA reaction signals are available for Dog 56 and Cat 56 (view top reported reactions).

Top Reported Reactions (openFDA)

Aggregated reaction terms from FDA openFDA reports (not verified; does not prove causation).

Dog
Digestive
Vomiting (33) Loss of appetite (17) Diarrhea (16) Blood in vomit (1) Blood in vomit (1) Blood in vomit (1) Blood in vomit (1) Blood in vomit (1) Blood in vomit (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Bloody diarrhoea (1) Diarrhea (1) Diarrhea (1) Diarrhea (1) Diarrhea (1) Diarrhea (1) Diarrhea (1)
Neurologic
Tiredness (lethargy) (31)
Effectiveness
Lack of efficacy - NOS (38) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2) Lack of efficacy - NOS (2)
Other
Weight loss (17) INEFFECTIVE, ANTIINFLAMMATORY (16) Other abnormal test result NOS (15) Dental calculus (1) Dental calculus (1) Dental calculus (1) Dental calculus (1) Dental calculus (1) Dental calculus (1) Diabetes (1) Diabetes (1) Diabetes (1) Diabetes (1) Diabetes (1) Diabetes (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Digestive tract hypomotility (1) Gastritis (1) Gastritis (1) Gastritis (1) Gastritis (1) Gastritis (1) Gastritis (1)
Cat
Digestive
Vomiting (98) Loss of appetite (68)
Neurologic
Tiredness (lethargy) (105) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Tiredness (lethargy) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (4) Unsteady walking (ataxia) (3)
Effectiveness
Lack of efficacy - NOS (88) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6) Lack of efficacy - NOS (6)
Other
Death by euthanasia (66) Weight loss (57) Death (55) Hyperglycaemia (52) Intentional misuse (4) Intentional misuse (4) Intentional misuse (4) Intentional misuse (4) Intentional misuse (4) Intentional misuse (4) Medication error NOS (3) Medication error NOS (3) Medication error NOS (3) Medication error NOS (3) Medication error NOS (3) Medication error NOS (3) Abnormal cytology (2) Abnormal cytology (2) Abnormal cytology (2) Abnormal cytology (2) Abnormal cytology (2) Abnormal cytology (2) Dehydration (2) Dehydration (2) Dehydration (2) Dehydration (2) Dehydration (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Elevated blood urea nitrogen (2) Panting (2)

Data source: FDA openFDA Animal & Veterinary adverse event reports.

Adverse Event Case Summaries (openFDA)

These are individual FDA adverse event reports. They are unverified and do not prove the medication caused the reaction.

Cat, Domestic Shorthair, Male, 2 year, 4.35 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Suspension, Unknown • Reactions: Partial lack of efficacy, Medication error NOS • Outcome: Ongoing

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-054729
  • Serious AE: Yes
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: 2.00 Year
  • Weight: 4.350 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Unknown
  • Form: Suspension
Reactions Reported:
Partial lack of efficacy Medication error NOS
Outcomes: Ongoing

Cat, Domestic Shorthair, Unknown, 13 year • Drug: MSK, Suspension, Intramuscular • Reactions: Dermatitis, Self trauma, Lack of efficacy - NOS • Outcome: Ongoing

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-055096
  • Serious AE: Yes
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Unknown
  • Age: 13.00 Year
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Intramuscular
  • Form: Suspension
Reactions Reported:
Dermatitis Self trauma Lack of efficacy - NOS
Outcomes: Ongoing

Cat, Domestic Mediumhair, Female, 13 year, 2.858 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Intramuscular, Dose: 0.40 mL per animal • Reactions: Tiredness (lethargy), Unresponsive to stimuli, Not eating, Not drinking, Hiding… • Outcome: Ongoing

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-055801
  • Serious AE: No
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Female
  • Age: 13.00 Year
  • Weight: 2.858 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Intramuscular
  • Dose: 0.40 mL per animal
Reactions Reported:
Tiredness (lethargy) Unresponsive to stimuli Not eating Not drinking Hiding Unsteady walking (ataxia) Abnormal radiograph finding Hypothermia Tympanic opacity Weight loss Malaise Muscle weakness NOS Intentional misuse Lack of efficacy - NOS
Outcomes: Ongoing

Cat, Domestic Shorthair, Female, 5 year, 3.6 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Unknown • Reactions: Head tilt - neurological disorder, Unsteady walking (ataxia), Decreased appetite • Outcome: Outcome Unknown

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-055932
  • Serious AE: No
  • Treated For AE: No
  • Sex: Female
  • Age: 5.00 Year
  • Weight: 3.600 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Unknown
Reactions Reported:
Head tilt - neurological disorder Unsteady walking (ataxia) Decreased appetite
Outcomes: Outcome Unknown

Cat, Domestic Shorthair, Female, 9 year, 5.262 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Suspension, Subcutaneous • Reactions: Skin ulcer, Lack of efficacy - NOS, Skin sore • Outcome: Ongoing

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-054827
  • Serious AE: Yes
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Female
  • Age: 9.00 Year
  • Weight: 5.262 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Subcutaneous
  • Form: Suspension
Reactions Reported:
Skin ulcer Lack of efficacy - NOS Skin sore
Outcomes: Ongoing

Dog, Shih Tzu, Male, 13.2 year, 4.59 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Suspension, Unknown • Reactions: Lack of efficacy - NOS • Outcome: Ongoing

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-052033
  • Serious AE: Yes
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Male
  • Age: 13.20 Year
  • Weight: 4.590 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Unknown
  • Form: Suspension
Reactions Reported:
Lack of efficacy - NOS
Outcomes: Ongoing

Dog, Retriever - Labrador, Female, 8 year, 28.12 kilogram • Drug: MSK, Unknown • Reactions: Vomiting, Not eating, Tiredness (lethargy), Pancreatitis NOS, Lack of efficacy (endoparasite) - roundworm NOS… • Outcome: Outcome Unknown

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-055168
  • Serious AE: Yes
  • Treated For AE: Yes
  • Sex: Female
  • Age: 8.00 Year
  • Weight: 28.120 Kilogram
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Unknown
Reactions Reported:
Vomiting Not eating Tiredness (lethargy) Pancreatitis NOS Lack of efficacy (endoparasite) - roundworm NOS Other abnormal test result NOS Shaking Diarrhea Hypoalbuminaemia Hives Skin scab Gastroenteritis Non-regenerative anaemia Digestive tract hypomotility Dental calculus Bloody diarrhoea Blood in vomit Tense abdomen Gastritis Mucous stool Pale mucous membrane Gut sounds increased Lack of efficacy (ectoparasite) - flea Trembling
Outcomes: Outcome Unknown

Dog, Dog (unknown), Unknown • Drug: MSK, Suspension, Unknown, Dose: 40 Milligram per 2 animal • Reactions: Lack of efficacy - NOS • Outcome: Outcome Unknown

  • Report ID: USA-USFDACVM-2025-US-050314
  • Serious AE: No
  • Treated For AE: No
  • Sex: Unknown
  • Case-reported brand: MSK
  • Case-reported manufacturer: MSK
  • Route: Unknown
  • Form: Suspension
  • Dose: 40 Milligram per 2 animal
Reactions Reported:
Lack of efficacy - NOS
Outcomes: Outcome Unknown

Data source: FDA openFDA Animal & Veterinary adverse event reports.

Overdose Information

No approved overdose-management text is linked yet. If overdose is suspected, contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.

Storage & Handling

No approved storage guidance is linked yet for this ingredient. Use manufacturer packaging and veterinary guidance for handling/storage.

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