Safety of Medrol Dospak

My physician has prescribed me Medrol Dosepack for a what she thinks is a migraine(and viral infection as I had 1 day of fever, chills etc.)although I don't believe it is migraine. Initially I felt( and still do) a small lump on the back of my neck just below the hairline and think that is causing pain refered to the front of my head as well as localized pain around the small lump. She says she can't feel anything back there, but I think it is a lymph node. Anyway, she prescribed Medrol to decrease pain. I hear this is a steroid? I am very concerned about taking a steroid. Are there any short-term/long-term side effects taking this? I probably will only take it for a few days to see if it helps with the pain. She had me take 3 maxalt pills which did not help the headache.

Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Medrol is a common steroid course that is given.  Steroids long term (i.e. months) can lead to osteoporosis and adrenal insufficiency.  

A few days is normally pretty safe.  Side effects can include GI side effects such as stomach upset or nausea.  Joint pain or muscle discomfort can also be part of the side-effect profile.

These considerations should be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b

[solnigor]

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