Methylprednisolone

What it is

Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid, a prescription-only drug that mimics the body's own cortisol. It binds steroid receptors inside cells and switches off much of the inflammatory and immune response, which is why it calms swelling, pain and overactive immune activity. It is used for autoimmune inflammation and for allergic reactions that need more than an antihistamine.

A usual adult range, not a national label — the dose and the timing differ by country and by product.

Used for

• Autoimmune inflammation
• Allergy

Approved uses differ by country — some of these may be off-label or unapproved where you live.

What to know while taking it

It is taken with food, in the morning, which both spares the stomach and follows the body's natural cortisol rhythm. It pushes blood glucose up and drains potassium and calcium over time, so glucose, potassium and vitamin D are worth watching during longer courses. Because it suppresses immune defences, ordinary infections can take hold more easily and run quieter than usual, with less fever and less obvious inflammation to give them away.

When to see a doctor

Fever, a spreading or non-healing infection, unusual thirst with frequent urination, or muscle weakness and cramps all warrant a doctor's assessment. The drug must never be stopped abruptly on one's own, since the adrenal glands need time to resume their own output; any change in the course is a decision for the prescriber.

Worth knowing

• Do not stop abruptly
• Raises blood glucose
• Raises infection risk

Markers to watch

• Glucose
• Potassium
• Vitamin D (25-OH)

Nutrients affected

• calcium — depleted by (Calcium, ionized, Calcium, total, Ferritin)
• potassium — depleted by (Potassium)