Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/24/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of methylprednisolone can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of methylprednisolone use include:

• Increased appetite
  
• Weight gain
  
• Changes in where fat is located in your body
  
• Mood changes (such as irritability or agitation)
  
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
  
• Acne or skin changes
  
• Increased sweating
  
• Headache
  
• Dizziness
  
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
  
• Changes in menstrual periods
  
  

More severe side effects of methylprednisolone use can include:

• Swelling
  
• Low potassium levels
  
• Rapid weight gain
  
• Muscle pain in the arms, legs, or back
  
• Cataracts or glaucoma (eye problems)
  
• Vision problems
  
• Seizures
  
• Black or tarry stools
  
• Coughing up blood
  
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  
• Mental health changes (such as depression or anxiety)
  
• Increases in blood pressure
  
• Increase in blood sugar levels
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking methylprednisolone, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with prednisone. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with methylprednisolone.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or have these conditions:

• Other corticosteroids or immunosuppressants
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs
  
• Antiarrhythmic medications
  
• Blood pressure medications
  
• Antibiotics or antifungals
  
• HIV/AIDS medications
  
• Tuberculosis medications
  
• Hepatitis medications
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• History of mental health disorders
  
• Recent eye infections, glaucoma, or cataracts
  
• Liver or kidney disease
  
• Intestinal disease
  
• Thyroid disease
  
• Myasthenia gravis
  
• Multiple sclerosis
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Seizures
  
• Diabetes
  
• Infections or recent vaccinations
  
• Osteoporosis
  
• Stomach ulcers
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using prednisone with your healthcare provider.

Take methylprednisolone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Methylprednisolone can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. It's important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.

In case of a methylprednisolone overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, altered mental status, or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.