Vomiting may occur as a side effect of rapid intravenous treatment. Transient polydipsia, polyuria and hyperaesthesia are also possible side effects. A drop in systemic blood pressure may be produced by a high dose of methylprednisolone sodium succinate.
There are risks associated with the use, especially systemically, of corticosteroids during pregnancy. The safety of Solu-Medrone V in canine or feline pregnancy has not been established.
Systemic activity of corticosteroids in early pregnancy is known to have caused foetal abnormalities in laboratory animals and in late pregnancy may cause early parturition or abortion. Solu-Medrone V is indicated in life threatening conditions where it may be considered that, in pregnant animals, the clinical benefit may outweigh any possible risk.
Corticosteroids may delay wound healing and the immunosuppressant actions may weaken resistance to or exacerbate existing infections. In the presence of bacterial infection, antibacterial drug cover is usually required when steroids are used. In the presence of viral infections, steroids may worsen or hasten the progress of the disease.
Except in cases of life threatening conditions, Solu-Medrone V is contra-indicated in cases where the patient is known or suspected to be suffering from Cushing's Syndrome, congestive heart failure, diabetes or severe chronic nephritis.
Gastrointestinal ulceration has been reported in animals treated with corticosteroids and G.I.T. ulceration may be exacerbated by steroids in patients given non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and in corticosteroid treated animals with spinal cord trauma. Steroids may cause enlargement of the liver (hepatomegaly) with increased serum hepatic enzymes.
Concurrent administration of barbiturates, phenylbutazone, phenytoin or rifampicin may enhance the metabolism and reduce the effects of corticosteroids. Response to anti-coagulants may also be reduced by corticosteroids.
During a course of treatment, the situation should be reviewed frequently by close veterinary supervision.
Operator warning
Care should be taken to avoid accidental self-injection of this potent drug. In the event of contact with the eyes, flush with water or isotonic saline for 5-10 minutes. In the event of contact with the skin, wash with soap and water.