# Methylprednisolone for Animals: Mechanism, Doses by Species & Brands

> Methylprednisolone is a glucocorticoid given by mouth as tablets (Medrol) or as a long-acting acetate injection (Depo-Medrol) for arthritis, allergic dermatitis and other inflammatory conditions in dogs, cats and horses.

- Source page: https://wevet.in/active-ingredients/methylprednisolone/
- Type: Active ingredient
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-02
- Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ravi Baraiya, B.V.Sc. (2026-11-02)
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Methylprednisolone is a glucocorticoid given by mouth as tablets (Medrol) [3] or as a long-acting acetate injection (Depo-Medrol) for arthritis, allergic dermatitis and other inflammatory conditions in dogs, cats and horses [2].

- Class: Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid, intermediate-acting)
- Brands: Depo-Medrol, Medrol

## Dose by species

| Species | Use | Dose | Route | How often | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Depo-Medrol IM (Average 20 mg; up to 120 mg in extremely large breeds.) | 2–40 mg/animal [2] | IM | Weekly or as the response requires | Label |
| Cats | Depo-Medrol IM (Average 10 mg.) | 10–20 mg/animal [2] | IM | Weekly or as the response requires | Label |
| Horses | Depo-Medrol IM | 200 mg/animal [2] | IM | Repeated as necessary | Label |

## Uses

- Dogs, cats and horses: pain and lameness of acute localized arthritis, and pruritus and inflammation of allergic dermatitis (Depo-Medrol) [2].
- Dogs and cats: oral tablets for the same indications as other anti-inflammatory steroids (Medrol) [3].

## Mechanism of action

Glucocorticoids bind receptors in the cell cytoplasm and the hormone–receptor complex changes which proteins the cell makes; one of these, lipocortin, inhibits phospholipase A2, the first step of prostaglandin and leukotriene production [1].

## Safety

- Contraindicated with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer and Cushing’s syndrome [2].
- Long-term use may cause iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome; stopping suddenly may lead to an Addisonian-like crisis [1].
- May induce the first stage of parturition in the last trimester of pregnancy [2].


## Frequently asked questions

### How is Depo-Medrol dosed in dogs?

The average IM dose is 20 mg per dog, from 2 mg in miniature breeds to 40 mg in medium breeds [2].

## References

[1] Corticosteroids in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (2024). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/corticosteroids-in-animals
[2] DEPO-MEDROL (methylprednisolone acetate) — label — Drugs.com Vet — US label text, Zoetis (2026). https://www.drugs.com/vet/depo-medrol.html
[3] MEDROL (methylprednisolone) tablets — label — Drugs.com Vet — US label text, Zoetis (2026). https://drugs.com/vet/medrol.html

---
Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
Ask follow-up questions in WeVet (free AI assistant for veterinarians): https://wevet.in/