Medrol (Methylprednisolone) Dose for Dogs & Cats: Strengths & Dose Calculator
Medrol tablets for dogs and cats contain 4 mg methylprednisolone, for dogs and cats (Zoetis) [1]. The total daily dose goes by body weight — 2 mg for 5–15 lb, 2–4 mg for 15–40 lb, 4–8 mg for 40–80 lb — split into doses 6–10 hours apart [1].
- Contains
- Methylprednisolone
- Company
- Zoetis
- Forms
- Medrol 4 mg tablet
- Label species
- Dogs, Cats
- Data from
- USA (FDA label)
- Type
- Corticosteroid
Medrol dose calculator
Results are calculated in your browser from the doses and strengths on this page. Check the strength printed on your pack and the label in your country before giving any dose.
Medrol strengths and presentations
| Presentation | Contains | Strength check |
|---|---|---|
| Medrol 4 mg tablet PO | Methylprednisolone 4 mg per tablet[1] | Confirmed |
| Body weight | Give |
|---|---|
| 5–15 lb (2.3–6.8 kg) | 2 mg a day (½ tablet), in divided doses |
| 15–40 lb (6.8–18.1 kg) | 2–4 mg a day (½–1 tablet), in divided doses |
| 40–80 lb (18.1–36.3 kg) | 4–8 mg a day (1–2 tablets), in divided doses |
Label directions
Warnings and precautions
About methylprednisolone (the active ingredient)
Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid, intermediate-acting).
How it works
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 [2].
Key safety points
- Contraindicated with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer and Cushing’s syndrome [3].
- Long-term use may cause iatrogenic Cushing’s syndrome; stopping suddenly may lead to an Addisonian-like crisis [2].
- May induce the first stage of parturition in the last trimester of pregnancy [3].
All about methylprednisolone — doses by species and every brand →
Pack sizes
- Cross-scored tablets in bottles of 500 [1].
Frequently asked questions
How much Medrol for a 30 lb dog?
The label gives 2–4 mg a day for 15–40 lb, split into doses 6–10 hours apart [1].
Other brands of methylprednisolone
More from Zoetis
Medrol is a trademark of its owner. This page is an independent clinical reference and is not affiliated with Zoetis. Strengths, species and withdrawal periods can differ between countries — always follow the pack insert in your country.
References
- MEDROL (methylprednisolone) tablets — label
Passage read from this source
Each 4 mg tablet contains 4 mg methylprednisolone.
For Oral Use in Dogs and Cats
The total daily dose should be given in divided doses, 6 to 10 hours apart.
are contraindicated in animals with arrested tuberculosis, peptic ulcer, acute psychoses, and Cushingoid syndrome
- Corticosteroids in Animals
Passage read from this source
Glucocorticoid-specific receptors in the cell cytoplasm bind with steroid ligands to form hormone-receptor complexes
Such proteins include lipocortin, a protein known to inhibit PLA2alpha
Longterm administration may lead to iatrogenic Cushing syndrome
abrupt discontinuation of glucocorticoid treatment may lead to an Addisonian-like crisis
- DEPO-MEDROL (methylprednisolone acetate) — label
Passage read from this source
The average intramuscular dose for dogs is 20 mg.
the dose may range from 2 mg in miniature breeds to 40 mg in medium breeds
even as high as 120 mg in extremely large breeds or dogs with severe involvement
The average intramuscular dose for cats is 10 mg with a range up to 20 mg.
For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.