Methylprednisolone?

[Mandapanda17]

Anyone tried this for inflammation?? I was prescribed a 6 day pack yesterday, a little unsure, but I'm willing to try just about anything at this point! Any info, good or bad would be helpful!! thanks!

[amys1975]

I was prescribed this medicine as well for back pain and arm numbness (possible pinched nerve in neck and bulging disc in back).  I am awaiting my MRI.  I feel GREAT for the most part!  My pain has been greatly reduced and I am able to move around and most importantly sleep without interruption!  I don't really understand how this medicine has helped so much but I am wondering if I am completely fixed or if my condition will worsen after the medicine leaves my system.

[pmartin1664]

Yes, you did the right thing starting the prescribed course. Every drug like this, as well as your over the counter allergy meds, carry a host of side effects. As you should know the risks, know that your Doctor weighted all effects before they choose this medicine to you. As the course continues, you will experience better and better results. Then as time progresses, your body will tell you when it's ness. to make another appt. to see your Doctor, and discuss a refill or another course of action. All said, you seem to be in the right hands as your post does not show any discontent or worry with your Doctor. Good for you! I hope all continues on this track!!

[tonyb1862]

I have multiple injuries and have 5 knee surgeries. I was afraid to take the Medication and then I decided that since I'm on vacation this week I'll try it. I should have taken this when it was first prescribed. I have absolutely no pain in my knee, for which a knee replacement is certain. I was hit by a truck years ago and have developed a ganglion cyst in my left shoulder impinging the nerve, no pain. Low back pain still present but not as severe. I was able to sleep last night for the first time. Thank GOD no side affectsa.  HOW LONG DOES THIS LAST ????????

[Mandapanda17]

thank you for the comment. It has seemed to help a lot so far!! I'm in less pain, haven't had to use any narcotic pain medication for the pain today. Its really nice that this has helped, don't know how long the relief will last, but I'm hopeful :) I've for sure been eating LOTS of food, lol, I like food anyway so its a good thing, no stomach problems at all from the prednisolone! take care, and hope you're doing well!

[Tuckamore]

Hi Mandapanda,

I'm glad to hear you are feeling some effect from the steroid. You should notice even more relief today and as the therapy progresses.

As far as stomach issues Shan is correct as are the other posts. She has offered some good suggestions also.  And it sounds like you are taking it correctly. The Methylprednisolone pack IS tapered. So you do not have to worry about an abrupt withdrawal. Additionally do not stop any other medication that your physician has ordered for you even if they are NSAID. Right now, food is your friend. If you are concerned about the other meds you may be taking with the steroid you should consult your PCP.

I am hopeful you will continue to feel better as your take this steroid therapy. Please let us know how you are doing. I will look forward to your next update. Take Care, Tuck

[Mandapanda17]

thanks sweetie!!! :) Lots of good info, and as you know, so far so good! On day two of it now and haven't had any terrible side effects yet. My neck feels a bit better today actually! ttys

[Shanna707]

  Oh yeah, on the good side, most of the unwanted, possible side-effects, are usually little to none with short term use ( a week or so), while the benefit can be great and last even after med is stopped.  The prednisone will be especially effective for pain if the pain is a result of increased swelling/inflammation such as in arthritis.

[Shanna707]

Just wanted to warn you to be careful how much nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory you take along with the prednisone, because it increases your chances of peptic ulceration or atleast stomach irritation.  Also, increased appetite is also noticed.  If you start having nausea and vomiting, you need to let the pharmacist and/or DR. know about it. otherwise, make sure you taper it as prescribed.  Do not start the med and then abruptly stop it unless Doctor tells you, otherwise serious withdrawal symptoms could result such as rebound inflammation, fatigue, weakness, fever, dizziness, Depression, fainting, orthostatic hypotension (this is where you stand up, blood pressure goes down and you could black out).
      Main thing pay close attention to gastrointestinal while on med and definately take as prescribed. ( I got this info from my nursing drug handbook).  With all that said, it can be very beneficial in decreasing inflammatory pain and worth the try!!
Good luck , Shan

[Mandapanda17]

thanks! So far I seem to be doing good with it, ate a lot of food :) Done with todays dosage so hopefully I'll sleep ok tonight! Thankfully, I've had NO side effects yet! And I seem to be in less pain today.. thanks again to both of you!

[Tuckamore]

Hi Mandapanda,

I have been on Methylprednisolone several times. My 75 year old mother just completed the pack. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid drug used to treat inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Short term there are few side-effects. It is a very effect medication to reduce multiple symptoms of inflammation. I did notice I had to take it in the mornings to avoid insomnia. It can make you a bit jittery. Be sure to take it with food as it can upset your stomach. I would not hesitate to take it again.

Good luck to you. I hope this medication will be as effective for you as it has been for me.  Please take care. Tuck

[sandee1818]

I have never been on this but here is some info...

Methylprednisolone side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
problems with your vision;

swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath;

severe depression, unusual thoughts or behavior, seizure (convulsions);

bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood;

pancreatitis (severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate);

low potassium (confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling); or

dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).

Less serious side effects may include:

sleep problems (insomnia), mood changes;

acne, dry skin, thinning skin, bruising or discoloration;

slow wound healing;

increased sweating;

headache, dizziness, spinning sensation;

nausea, stomach pain, bloating; or

changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect methylprednisolone?
There are many other medicines that can interact with steroids. Below is only a partial list of these medicines:

aspirin (taken on a daily basis or at high doses);

a diuretic (water pill);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune);

insulin or diabetes medications you take by mouth;

antibiotics such as ketoconazole (Nizoral), rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane), or troleandomycin (Tao); or

seizure medications such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with methylprednisolone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.