optical neuritis and steroids

[T-lynn]

I have read much controversy on steroids(solu-medrol IV therapy) and optical neuritis.
I had a relapse in March with ON and other symptoms and was on solu-medrol and 30 day taper down of prednisone.
I'm to start another round of solu-medrol and then another 30 day prednisone taper down.
Besides Optical neuritis I also have BINO.Won't the steroids after awhile effect the eyes.

[John C Hagan]

Steroids (cortisone) are very potent medications with multiple side-effects some severe and dangerous. Physicians use steroids only when no other options are available. They use as little as they can for as short of period of time as possible. Sometimes as in organ transplants patients will be on steroids for years.

The most common side effect of prolonged steroid use in the eye is cataracts especially posterior subcapsular cataracts. A much less common problem is increasse intraocular pressure (steroid glaucome).

You have serious health problems and steroid may be the best option you have. Read the prescribing information from your pharmacy. Discuss your concerns with your neurologist.

JCH MD

[T-lynn]

Thank You so very much,my regular eye DR has tried to persuade me against the solu-medrol.It seems to be the only thing that puts the ON in remission as I know theres no cure for BINO.
So having these 5 day treatments two and half months a part won't hurt then?

[John C Hagan]

Unfortunately complications can develop to steroids in some people in as little as 24 hours. However you've been on them before and done well. 5 days is not verylong to be on steroids. Follow your doctors advice, read the package insert well.

JCH MD