The need-to-know information for Methylprednisolone
MethylprednisolonePearls and Fun Nuggets
1. If taking long term, don’t stop abruptly š« The most serious side effect occurs after the adrenal glands cease natural production of cortisol, which methylprednisolone will replace. Abrupt cessation of the drug after this occurs can result in a condition known asĀ Addisonian crisis, which can be fatal. To prevent this, the drug is usually prescribed with a tapering dose, including a predosed “dose pack” detailing a specific number of tablets to take at designated times over a several-day period.
2. It has the potential to cause subcutaneous atrophy in the area administeršĀ Due to the acetateĀ in this formulation, it is important to remember that it should not be givenĀ intravenously. The only formulation that can be given intravenously is methylprednisolone succinate (Solu-medrol).
3. Methylprednisolone can suppress the immune system, making you vulnerable š³Measles and chicken poxĀ are very dangerous and potentially fatal for people on methylprednisolone therapy.
4. Methylprednisolone can help you have a baby š¶ After egg retrieval for a cycle of in vitroĀ fertilization, methylprednisolone may be prescribed to prevent the body from rejecting the embryos being transferred, up to the time of implantation.[9][10]
Patient Perspectives
“I was given methylprednisolone for treatment of severe poison ivy! It relieved the swelling and helped me sleep. Not only did it help with that, I have been having swelling in my right leg and severe pain in my right heel since a few months after a hip replacement. The second day on treatment NO pain in my right heel and no swelling for the duration of this 6 day treatment~ I hope it continues!!! Love this product so far.”
Ā
“This medicine helped my asthmatic flare up and breathing. The site where injection was done was painful. The results of this medicine was a blessing of relief!”
Ā
“Helped tremendously. Was given as daily injection (by IV) before bedtime during treatment of severe episode shortness-of-breath requiring hospitalization. Reduced need for daily inhalators and restored breathing capacity. Has been two weeks since last dose without any “COPD-Flare” episodes.”
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