Methylprednisolone: my experience

[Kath1]

I just wanted to post my experience of methylprednisolone IV in case it might help someone one day.

I was in a big flare so my rheumatologist suggested IV methylprednisolone once a week for 3 weeks. It all happened so quickly I didn't know what to expect and I had a hard time finding any information. So here is my experience, I hope it is helpful.

The IV ward was nice, warm and the nurses very kind. Unfortunately they didn't allow visitors but there was a waiting area outside the ward. I took a bottle of water with me but was also offered a hot drink and biscuits while I was there.

The first thing they asked for was a urine sample, turns out this was for a pregnancy test. They may also test it for sugar?? I'm not sure, but they do test your blood sugar separately.

Then they set up the IV, I had 500mg methylprednisolone in one bag/bottle and then a second bag which flushes it through after. The process took about an hour start to finish.

As with all meds side effects vary. I developed a metallic taste in my mouth during, which stuck around the rest of the day so I was glad of the mints I happened to have in my bag.

I had a bit of a fuzzy head but that was probably due to my methotrexate injection the night before.

The only other thing I experienced was my glands were sore around my neck by the next evening but that passed after a day or so.

On the positive side I currently have very little inflammation and my energy levels feel normal which is brilliant. I am glad I had the treatment and hopefully it will last a while.

[lupime]

Glad the treatment has been helpful for you. It is always good to hear a positive story, so thank you for posting about your experience.

[HantsMan]

Hi Kath1, thanks for that update, I must admit I was going to ask about the methotrexate injection as I've been offered the choose to come off the pills.and have it in injection format...

Is there anything you can say about that please?

[Kath1 in reply to HantsMan]

I switched to the injection (15mg) as the tablets upset my stomach which I assume is the reason you are thinking about switching? The injection isn't so bad, I still feel a bit off the next day but better than with the tablets. The injection comes in a pen and is easy to do. I inject on my thigh and alternate leg each week. Sometimes it might sting a little but not much and not every time. Sometimes you may also get a little bruise but nothing bad.

You also need to get a needle box to dispose of the pens but that comes on prescription as well. All the pens do take up more space and need to be kept below 25 degrees so I have to find room in the fridge if we get a random heat wave.

So overall the injections are ok and worth trying but if I'm totally honest, if I could stomach the tablets I would stick with them because it's just easier.

I hope that is helpful and I wish you all the best

[HantsMan]

Hi, thanks for that, I'd read that the overall affect was better with injection, but I'd need to be on it for a while. .. and yes I'll have to see how I get on with the needles. But hanks for letting me know