Prednisone Vs. Methylpred

Prednisone and methylprednisolone are two members of a class of medications called corticosteroids, or steroids. These medications are typically used to prevent the body from releasing certain substances that trigger inflammation.

Prednisone Uses

• Doctors use prednisone to treat a number of ailments, including severe allergic reactions, arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis and the symptoms of certain cancers, according to Medline Plus.

Methylprednisolone Uses

• Doctors use methylprednisolone to treat ailments including asthma, arthritis, intestinal disorders such as colitis, certain cancers and certain disorders of the eyes, kidneys, skin and blood, Medline Plus reports.

Corticosteroid Replacement

• Doctors may also use prednisone or methylprednisolone to increase depleted supplies of natural steroids in the body, Medline Plus notes.

Available Forms

• Prednisone comes in tablet, concentrated solution and solution forms, according to Medline Plus. Methylprednisolone comes in tablet form.

Considerations

• Both prednisone and methylprednisolone can weaken the functions of the body’s immune system, according to Drugs.com. Individuals taking these medications should report their infection history to their doctors and avoid contact with other people who have infections or contagious illnesses.