Why does Medrol take it away?
(sung to the tune of Lenny Kravitz, “Are you gonna go my way?”)
Medrol AKA Methylprednisolone can be magic for me.
For those of you not in the sicky world – it’s basically steroids.
Yesterday, my trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and arm muscles were so spastic and weak, I couldn’t
carry my purse on my right shoulder. I was unable to lift my right arm enough to wash my hair independently. Today, after three full dose days, I feel more energetic and while my range of motion is still limited, it’s like I am a different person than I was Monday morning. I’m also less fatigued overall than I have been in weeks.
When a pharmaceutical works so well and so quickly for me, I can’t help but become skeptical. Am I really doing more harm than good? Ask An MD has a great post related to this topic right now.
For me, it seems as though Medrol is a last resort – when all else fails with me, give her some Medrol or Prednisone. Medrol comes in a convenient purse or pocket pack. It has a scheduled taper printed directly on the tablet container.
So, what is up with Medrol and if it potentially works so well, why I am not constantly on it?
There are many good reasons it is a last result. There are many possible side effects that range from harmful to annoying and uncomfortable. One unfavorable side effect is puffy face and endless appetite. One happy side effect, my psoriasis clears up a bit.
From Pfizer http://www.pfizer.com/files/products/uspi_medrol.pdf
DESCRIPTION
MEDROL Tablets contain methylprednisolone which is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids are adrenocortical steroids.
ACTIONS
Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone) are primarily used for their potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems. Glucocorticoids cause profound and varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body’s immune responses to diverse stimuli.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
MEDROL Tablets are indicated in the following conditions: (see above referenced document for details)
1. Endocrine Disorders
2. Rheumatic Disorders
3. Collagen Diseases
4. Dermatologic Diseases
5. Allergic States
6. Ophthalmic
7. Respiratory Diseases
8. Hematologic Disorders
9. Neoplastic Diseases
10. Edematous States
11. Gastrointestinal Diseases
12. Nervous System
13. Miscellaneous
WARNINGS
Too many to list (per me, Queen of Optimism. check out the document for more info)
Medicine Cabinet
With where I’m at with my leg and neck/shoulder/arm problems, I’ve suddenly developed a fuller medicine cabinet. Today, I picked up an e-prescription for Ultram. I know nothing about this drug. I already have Darvocet, am supposed to take Valium, and take Klonopin as needed for anxiety. I’m growing uncomfortable with the pill approach. Especially when we’re talking opioids and tranquilizers.
However, there’s no denying I have been more awake and more productive thanks to Medrol. And, the pain I had been experiencing pre-pain pills was debilitating. If pills are a long-term solution, I want to know why. Even though I worry about jinxing myself, let’s hope super Neuro #4 can give me the answers.
But what if the Medrol masks my symptoms for when I see my new doc on the 17th?!? Eek!
My dear fellow patients: Do you take Medrol? How do you feel about your other prescriptions?
Docs and other Medical professionals - what are your thoughts?
I changed some settings on my blog so I believe you can now post more anonymously! I’d love to hear from you.
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