Methylprednisolone, while effective for some types of vertigo, carries potential side effects. These vary in severity and frequency, depending on dosage and duration of treatment.
Common side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes (including irritability, anxiety, or insomnia), and difficulty sleeping. You may also experience increased blood sugar levels, requiring monitoring, especially if you have diabetes. Some individuals report fluid retention, leading to swelling in the face, legs, or ankles.
Less common, but more serious, side effects require immediate medical attention. These include increased risk of infections due to immunosuppression, worsening of existing glaucoma or cataracts, increased blood pressure, and stomach ulcers. Rarely, methylprednisolone can cause serious psychiatric effects, such as psychosis. Muscle weakness and bone thinning (osteoporosis) are also possibilities with prolonged use.
Before starting treatment, discuss your medical history thoroughly with your doctor, especially if you have diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, heart problems, osteoporosis, or a history of peptic ulcers. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or monitor you closely for specific side effects. Be sure to report any new or worsening symptoms immediately. Careful monitoring helps minimize risks and maximize the benefits of this medication.
After treatment, a gradual tapering of the medication is usually recommended to reduce the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain. Your doctor will guide you on the appropriate tapering schedule.
