Methylprednisolone

Methylprednisolone

Methylprednisolone, a synthetic steroid, mimics the actions of natural hormones produced by the adrenal glands. These small glands sit atop your kidneys and produce hormones that help regulate your body's metabolism. Methylprednisolone is primarily used to reduce inflammation and treat a variety of conditions, including allergies, arthritis, asthma, and skin disorders. While generally safe, this drug can have side effects, such as weight gain, mood changes, and high blood pressure, especially if used long-term. The dosage and timing of this medication should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional to avoid overdose and other complications.

What are the uses of Methylprednisolone?

Methylprednisolone serves as a replacement for the hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is used to perform its expected functions, such as reducing inflammation and treating various medical conditions. Its applications include:

• Inflammatory Conditions: Methylprednisolone is used to treat a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Allergies: It can be prescribed to manage severe allergic reactions, including those involving the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
• Asthma: Methylprednisolone may be used in the treatment of acute asthma exacerbations.
• Autoimmune Diseases: It is employed to suppress the immune response in autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Respiratory Disorders: Methylprednisolone is sometimes used in chronic respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
• Organ Transplants: It is used as an immunosuppressant in organ transplant recipients to prevent the rejection of the transplanted organ.
• Certain Cancers: In some cases, it is utilized in cancer treatment to reduce inflammation and manage side effects of chemotherapy.
• Dermatological Conditions: Methylprednisolone can be used in the treatment of skin disorders like eczema and severe cases of hives (urticaria).
• Neurological Conditions: In certain neurological conditions, such as acute spinal cord injuries, high-dose Methylprednisolone is used to reduce inflammation and minimize nerve damage.

How and when to take Methylprednisolone?

Methylprednisolone is typically administered orally in tablet form, with the dosage and schedule determined by a doctor based on the patient's condition. As the drug affects hormonal balance, it is crucial to follow the prescribed regimen precisely and not adjust the dose without consulting a physician. While the drug can produce relief in a matter of days, it is essential to continue taking the medication until the doctor instructs otherwise. 

Abruptly stopping the medication can cause adverse reactions such as loss of appetite, confusion, vomiting, drowsiness, headache, joint and muscle pain, and peeling skin. Therefore, it is crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare provider before discontinuing this medication.

What are the side effects of Methylprednisolone?

This drug may cause some common side effects, as listed below. 

• Headache
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Acne
• Anxiety
• Stomach irritation
• Restlessness
• Body becomes fragile
• Depression
• Increased growth of hair

While the side effects of methylprednisolone are typically temporary, it is crucial to inform a doctor if any symptoms persist or become severe.

What precautions should be taken?

Before taking Methylprednisolone, it is important to keep the following precautions in mind:

• Disclose any allergies to Methylprednisolone, aspirin, tartrazine, or other drugs.
• Inform the doctor of any prescription or non-prescription medications currently being taken, particularly anticoagulants, arthritis medications, aspirin, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, and diuretics.
• Refrain from taking Methylprednisolone if suffering from a fungal infection on any part of the body other than the skin.
• Disclose any prior history of liver, kidney, heart, or intestinal disease, diabetes, underactive thyroid gland, mental illness, or high blood pressure.
• Notify the doctor and dentist if planning to undergo dental surgery while taking Methylprednisolone.
• Limit alcohol consumption while taking Methylprednisolone, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other complications.

What if you miss the dose of Methylprednisolone?

If a dose of Methylprednisolone is missed while taking it once a day, it may be taken as soon as remembered, but taking two doses at once to compensate for the missed one is not recommended. If it is nearly time for the next dose, it is advisable to skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. It is essential to consult with a doctor before beginning Methylprednisolone to determine what to do if a dose is missed.

What if you take an overdose of Methylprednisolone?

An overdose of Methylprednisolone might cause blood pressure to rise, retention of salt and water, may cause swellings in your arms, legs, or feet. It can also lower the blood's potassium levels, leading to weakness, muscle cramps, tiredness, etc. 

What are the storage conditions for Methylprednisolone?

• This drug should be stored at room temperature. Keeping it between 20 - 25C (68 - 77F) is best suited. 

• Store the drug in the original box it came in and away from the reach of children. It should not be stored in damp or moist areas.

Caution with other medicines

The following medicines may interfere with the working of Methylprednisolone: 

• Blood thinners
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Diabetes medicines
• Ketoconazole
• Phenytoin and Phenobarbital
• Paxlovid
• Certain live vaccines.

How quickly does Methylprednisolone show results?

Methylprednisolone works quickly. It usually reaches its peak effect after about an hour. The peak effect is sustained for about two hours. 

Methylprednisolone vs Prednisone 

FAQs

1. Will methylprednisolone cause weight gain?

Methylprednisolone can cause weight gain as one of its side effects. Weight gain is a common side effect of corticosteroid medications like Methylprednisolone, especially when used for an extended period or at high doses.

2. Is methylprednisolone an antibiotic?

Methylprednisolone is not an antibiotic. It is a corticosteroid medication that is used to reduce inflammation in various medical conditions.

3. Can I drink alcohol while taking methylprednisolone?

It's generally advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Methylprednisolone, as alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects, including stomach irritation and the potential for stomach ulcers. Alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.

4. What are the side effects of methylprednisolone?

The side effects of Methylprednisolone can include weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, sleep disturbances, increased blood pressure, fluid retention, and a weakened immune system, among others. Serious side effects may occur with prolonged or high-dose use, so it's essential to use this medication as per doctor’s advice.

5. What are the uses of methylprednisolone?

The uses of Methylprednisolone include treating a wide range of medical conditions involving inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, skin disorders, respiratory conditions, and certain cancers, among others. The specific use of Methylprednisolone depends on the patient's condition and the doctor's recommendation.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/Methylprednisolone-oral-route/description/drg-20075237 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4812-corticosteroids
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/Methylprednisolone-drug-information/print#:~:text=Day%201%3A%2024%20mg%20on,regardless%20of%20time%20of%20day

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.