What Factors Affect Methylprednisolone Dosage?

A methylprednisolone dosage can be administered as an injection to a patient through IV, or it can be delivered in a powder or capsule form. It is a powerful form of synthetic corticosteroid, and can be used to treat a wide variety of health complications. The oral form of methylprednisolone can be used for the treatment of allergies, blood diseases, breathing problems, collagen and skin disorders, and more. The dosage is often increased or decreased based on a wide variety of factors in patients.

Methylprednisolone dosage should only be increased in very rare instances. Patients that are undergoing unusual stress can be administered a higher dosage of methylprednisolone before, during and after the event, such as a traumatic incident, surgery or a serious illness. Large doses of the corticosteroid can lead to high blood pressure, the retention of water and salt, and excess calcium excretion. Large doses administered intravenously have been known to cause cardiac arrest, arrhythmias and circulatory collapse. Patients should not receive a vaccination during a course of corticosteroids, as it can lead to a weakening of the vaccine. They should also avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking methylprednisolone, because it can lead to retention of excess levels of the medicine.

The dosage of methylprednisolone will often be lowered by a prescribing doctor based on certain health conditions. Patients with conditions including but not limited to depression, kidney and liver disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, glaucoma, congestive heart failure and high blood pressure will often receive a lower methylprednisolone dosage, or a different treatment altogether. A patient should notify their doctor of any illness or infection they’re suffering from before taking methylprednisolone. A doctor will often delay treatment in this instance, for the safety of the patient. Drugs such as aspirin, birth control pills, NSAIDs and even some herbal products can cause interactions with methylprednisolone, so patients are advised to inform their doctors of any medications being taken.

Methylprednisolone dosage is often tapered off over time, meaning the amount administered becomes lower as the patient nears the end of their treatment. Suddenly stopping the dosage can often lead to withdrawal symptoms such as weight loss, nausea and fatigue. If a patient misses a dose, the best course of action is often to contact their health care provider. If a patient accidentally overdoses on methylprednisolone, they should seek immediate emergency medical attention. It is often recommended that a patient taking steroids should wear a medical bracelet, so that any treating physician or medical personnel can respond appropriately.