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Methylprednisolone - Uses - Dosages - Side Effects - Precautions

Methylprednisolone: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is methylprednisolone?

Methylprednisolone is an oral prescription drug. It is a type of corticosteroid that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. These corticosteroids are specifically known as synthetic glucocorticoids. They are man-made versions of the natural anti-inflammatory corticosteroid hormone the adrenal glands secrete.

Methylprednisolone is popularly known for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Doctors prescribe it only when your body does not produce enough glucocorticoids independently. It can be used for acute and sudden flare-ups and long-term, chronic conditions.

What are the uses of methylprednisolone?

You can use methylprednisolone for several diseases effectively, even those that are not limited to inflammation. One of its major uses, besides controlling inflammation, is regulating the body’s immune system. The uses of methylprednisolone are to treat:

  • Blood disorders
  • Arthritis
  • Allergic reactions ranging from mild to severe
  • Certain types of cancers
  • Eye conditions and skin disorders
  • Immune system disorders
  • Lung and related intestinal infections
  • Multiple sclerosis flare-ups
  • Brain and heart problems
  • Collagen diseases
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What are the side effects of methylprednisolone?

The chances of side effects of methylprednisolone are rare when taken in the prescribed dosage. The side effects are mild in some cases, but we recommend that you contact a doctor if you experience any of these adverse reactions after taking methylprednisolone:

  • Headache, vomiting, nausea, and dizziness
  • Stomach upsets
  • Restlessness and insomnia
  • Unexplained depression and anxiety
  • Acne
  • Increased hair growth on the face
  • Irregular menstrual cycle

Consult our team of experts at Yashoda Hospitals for medical opinions and advice regarding how to administer methylprednisolone.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Methylprednisolone

1. Is methylprednisolone a steroid?

Yes. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid, much like cortisone. It is specifically an artificial glucocorticoid and similar to the natural corticosteroid. This is a steroid hormone that the adrenal glands produce. Since it is a steroid, consume it only within the prescribed doses. It effectively treats multiple disorders related to skin swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions.

2. How to taper methylprednisolone?

Even after you no longer require methylprednisolone, do not withdraw the drug immediately as it could result in steroid withdrawal, leading to severe symptoms. It is safer to taper off methylprednisolone with your doctor’s guidance by gradually reducing its dosage. As you taper, there might be some subtle yet noticeable symptoms. Talk to your doctor and follow their advice.

3. How long does methylprednisolone take to work?

Methylprednisolone is a rapid onset drug that starts to show peak effects in a couple of hours of taking it orally. When taken intravenously, the drug works even faster and shows results in just an hour. Thereafter, it exits your body through the urine in approximately 13 to 20 hours.

4. How do you take methylprednisolone?

There are more than a couple of ways to take methylprednisolone. The most prescribed and easiest method is to take it orally as a tablet, in the dosage recommended by your doctor. Other methods are injecting it directly into your body or taking it as a suspension or solution based on your doctor’s advice.

5. Will methylprednisolone cause weight gain?

Weight gain is one of the most common side effects of taking methylprednisolone. The drug makes you hungry, thereby prompting you to eat more. You can control this weight gain by strictly watching your diet, avoiding salt and sugar, eating protein and calcium-rich food along with healthy fats.

6. Is methylprednisolone an antibiotic?

Methylprednisolone is a type of steroid that fills the gap when your body fails to produce sufficient amounts of anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. However, methylprednisolone has no antibacterial and antibiotic properties. Rather, you should avoid taking it with any type of antibiotic. If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, let them know about your prescription of methylprednisolone.

7. Can I drink alcohol while taking methylprednisolone?

It is advised not to mix alcohol with your methylprednisolone prescription due to the possibility of indigestion. The combination of these two also irritates the stomach, and can further result in peptic ulcers. The problem further increases if you were already prone to digestive or stomach issues before taking methylprednisolone.

8. How long does methylprednisolone stay in your system?

The exact time methylprednisolone stays in your system depends on the dosage intake. But in general, if methylprednisolone is taken orally, it stays in your system for approximately 12 to 13 hours before it passes out in the urine. We suggest you consult your doctor to know how your dosage affects this issue.

9. Is methylprednisolone safe?

Since methylprednisolone is a regularly prescribed drug, it is justified to consider that the drug is safe for intake. However, you should note that methylprednisolone is a steroid and a strong one at it. Therefore, avoid uncontrolled usage. Following your doctor’s advice and regular prescription is recommended to avoid harsh side effects and get effective results.

10. How much does methylprednisolone cost?

The cost of methylprednisolone depends on a few factors: whether the drug is branded or generic, its dosage, and the medium (tablet, injection, or solution). Usually, the tablets range from INR 50 to INR 600. For instance, a 4mg tablet leaf with 10 tablets would cost you around INR 55.

For queries regarding methylprednisolone and other OTC and prescription drugs, contact our experts at Yashoda Hospitals today.

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Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.