What is Methylprednisolone?
Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid medicine that prevents the release of substances in the body that lead to inflammation. It is used for treating various conditions like arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, allergic disorders, and gland disorders. It can also affect the skin, eyes, lungs, stomach, nervous system, and blood cells.
Uses of Methylprednisolone
Methylprednisolone is used for treating conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Blood disorders
- Severe allergic reactions
- Cancers
- Eye conditions
- Skin diseases
- Lung diseases
- Immune system disorders
Side Effects of Methylprednisolone
Common Side Effects:
- Fluid retention
- Dizziness
- Changes in menstrual period
- Headache
- Mild muscle pain
- Weakness
- Stomach discomfort
- Bloating
Serious Side Effects:
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain
- Depression
- Unusual pain in arms and legs
- Seizure
- Low potassium
If you experience any serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. In any case of adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
Important Precautions
Before taking Methylprednisolone, inform your doctor if you have allergies or any medical history such as:
- Bleeding problems
- Blood clots
- Brittle bones
- Diabetes
- Eye diseases
- Heart problems
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Mental or mood disorders
- Stomach or intestinal problems (e.g., diverticulitis, ulcer)
- Seizures
Note: Methylprednisolone can cause stomach bleeding. Limiting alcohol consumption while using this medication can help reduce this risk.
How to Take Methylprednisolone
Take Methylprednisolone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully. Do not stop taking this medication abruptly, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms such as loss of appetite, upset stomach, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion, headache, fever, joint and muscle pain, peeling skin, and weight loss.
Methylprednisolone Dosage Guidelines
- Oral Dose: Ranges from 2-60 mg daily, depending on the condition.
- Depo-Medrol Dose: 10-80 mg injected into muscles every 1-2 weeks.
Missed Dose:
Missing one or two doses will not significantly affect your treatment, but you should take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Overdose:
An overdose can be accidental. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately, as it can lead to severe health issues.
Important Information
Before starting Methylprednisolone, inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and any other medications you are taking. Steroid use can weaken the immune system, making it easier to get infections or worsen existing infections. Inform any healthcare provider treating you that you are taking steroid medications.
Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Methylprednisolone vs Dexamethasone
| Methylprednisolone | Dexamethasone |
|---|---|
| Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid medicine which prevents the release of a substance in the body which leads to inflammation. | Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid which is similar to hormone produced by the adrenal glands. The medication is often used for replacing chemical when the body does not make enough of it. |
| Methylprednisolone is used for treating conditions like arthritis, blood disorder, severe allergic reactions, cancers, eye conditions, skin diseases, lung diseases, and immune system disorders. | Dexamethasone is used for treating conditions like arthritis, blood disorders, allergic reactions, skin diseases and eye problems. |
Some of the serious side effects of Methylprednisolone are:
|
Some of the serious side effects of dexamethasone are:
|
