High-dose intravenous corticosteroid used for acute inflammatory conditions affecting vision.
Drug Class: corticosteroid
Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid given intravenously (IV) at high doses for acute inflammatory conditions. It's commonly used for acute optic neuritis, NMO attacks, and other severe inflammatory conditions.
Key Takeaways
- High-dose IV steroid treatment
- Used for acute attacks of inflammatory conditions
- Given over 3-5 days typically
- Often followed by oral steroids (taper)
- Speeds recovery but may not change final outcome
How It Works
Like other corticosteroids, methylprednisolone suppresses inflammation and immune activity. High IV doses achieve rapid, high tissue levels to quickly reduce acute inflammation.
Common Uses
- Optic neuritis
- NMO attacks
- MOGAD attacks
- Severe thyroid eye disease
- Multiple sclerosis relapses
- Acute severe inflammatory conditions
Administration
- 1 gram IV daily for 3-5 days (common regimen)
- Given in infusion center or hospital
- Infusion takes 1-2 hours
- May be followed by oral steroid taper
Side Effects
During Infusion
- Metallic taste in mouth
- Flushing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Insomnia
- Mood changes
Short-Term
- Blood sugar elevation
- High blood pressure
- Fluid retention
- Insomnia
- GI upset
With Repeated Courses
Similar to long-term oral steroids:
- Bone loss
- Cataracts
- Infection risk
What to Expect
- Infusion given in a chair or bed
- Vital signs monitored
- May feel "wired" or anxious
- Metallic taste is common
- May have trouble sleeping that night
Monitoring
- Blood pressure during infusion
- Blood sugar (especially diabetics)
- Watch for mood changes
- Infection signs
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this cure my condition?
IV steroids treat acute inflammation but don't cure the underlying condition. For conditions like optic neuritis, they speed recovery but may not change the final outcome. For NMO/MOGAD, they treat the attack but ongoing therapy prevents future attacks.
Why IV instead of pills?
High IV doses achieve rapid, high tissue concentrations. For acute attacks, this quick effect can help limit damage. Oral steroids are used for maintenance but can't achieve the same rapid peak levels.
What if I can't have IV steroids?
Alternative approaches exist, including high-dose oral steroids (though absorption is variable) or plasma exchange for severe cases.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Medically Reviewed Content
This article meets our editorial standards
- Written by:
- Hashemi Eye Care Medical Team
- Medically reviewed by:
- Board-Certified Neuro-Ophthalmologist (MD, Neuro-Ophthalmology)
- Last reviewed:
- January 30, 2025