Treating dermatitis with medrol for dogs

With the prescription medication Medrol, dogs can get relief from the numerous symptoms associated with dermatitis. Dogs affected by this skin condition often experience inflamed, scaly, red, sore or infected skin. Allergic dermatitis is one of the most common forms of this disease, and is often caused by a dog allergy to mite or flea bites. Contact dermatitis, a less frequent problem, can occur when dogs with hypersensitivities to irritants come into contact with substances in household products, plants or fertilizers. One of the most common and effective treatment methods for dermatitis is the anti-inflammatory drug Medrol. Here is additional information on how this kind of dog medication works to relieve the symptoms of this canine skin disorder.

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How Medrol Works

Medrol is the brand name for the prescription drug Methylprednisolone, a kind of synthetic steroid used frequently to treat inflammation and allergic reactions associated with dog dermatitis. Designed after the naturally occurring hormone cortisol, Medrol works by interfering with key parts of an allergic reaction.

When dogs with hypersensitivities to certain allergens encounter irritants like flea saliva, their immune systems increase production of prostaglandins, histamines and white blood cells. Too many of these chemicals and compounds in a dog`s system can create unpleasant symptoms like itchiness, swelling and redness of the skin. Medrol helps treat these problems by suppressing the creation and distribution of these natural defense mechanisms. The drug can also be used to treat inflammation associated with dog asthma, which can be triggered by airborne allergens or irritants.

Using Medrol

This widely prescribed dog steroid is available in tablet form or as an injection, known commonly as Depo-Medrol. A potent anti-inflammatory drug, Medrol relieves itching quickly and can typically be given at lower doses than other corticosteroids. Medrol tablets are small and white, containing 4 mg of medication per pill. Your veterinarian will advise you on the right dosage for your dog. Depo-Medrol is typically administered as a single injection that lasts around 6 weeks. It may be recommended for one-time use or to treat dogs with seasonal allergies. Like other prescription steroids that impact the immune system, Medrol can increase susceptibility to illness and infection. To help reduce such risks, you may consider keeping your dog indoors or away from potential hazards while he is taking Medrol. Corticosteroids also affect the body`s water and sodium levels, which can sometimes create side effects like water retention, weight gain and increased blood pressure. Because Medrol is given at lower doses, these side effects are typically minimized. Use of Medrol is generally not advised in dogs with tuberculosis, Cushing`s disease or peptic ulcers. Extreme caution is also advised regarding the use of Medrol in pregnant dogs.

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Dermatitis can create a number of uncomfortable skin-related problems in affected dogs, including inflammation, redness, sores and irritation. Medrol is among the fastest, easiest and most effective methods to treat this skin disease. This commonly used prescription medication is available in tablet and injectable form, and can provide welcome relief to dogs suffering from a range of symptoms associated with dermatitis.

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