Methylprednisolone is a form of glucocorticoid, or a class of steroid drug. This type of drug helps prevent inflammation in the body. There are also other uses of methylpred such as treating non-penetrating spinal cord injuries. study reveals that a dose of 30 mg/kg IV followed by IV drip at 5.4 mg/kg/hr for 23 hours can improve sensory and motor recovery if taken within 8 hours of the injury.
One severe side effect of Methylprednisolone if taken long-term is called the Addisonian crisis. Methylpred replace the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands. When a person stops taking methylpred, the adrenal gland cannot function well to produce cortisol naturally, which will result in Addisonian crisis. This condition can be fatal. To prevent this, methylpred is usually prescribed with tapering dosage.
Taking methylprednisolone can weaken your immune system. Avoid getting live vaccines while taking the medication because it may not work well. Don't go near people who are sick or have infection. Exposure to chicken pox or measles can be fatal to people who are using steroid.
