Learn about common and serious Medrol side effects, how long they last, and when you should contact your doctor. A complete 2026 guide to Methylprednisolone safety.
Medrol (Methylprednisolone) is a powerful corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system. While it's highly effective for conditions ranging from severe allergies to autoimmune diseases, it does come with side effects—especially with longer courses of treatment.
The good news: most side effects are predictable, manageable, and resolve after you stop taking the medication. This guide breaks down what to expect so you can feel informed and prepared.
If you're new to this medication, start with our overview of what Medrol is and how it's used.
These side effects are experienced by many patients, particularly during the first few days of treatment. They're usually mild and temporary:
Corticosteroids like Medrol are well known for increasing appetite. You may notice stronger cravings, particularly for carbohydrates and salty foods. For short courses (like a 6-day Medrol Dosepak), weight gain is typically minimal—just a few pounds of water weight that resolves quickly.
For longer courses, work with your doctor on dietary strategies to manage weight changes.
Many patients report difficulty falling or staying asleep while taking Medrol. This is one of the most common complaints. To minimize sleep disruption:
Methylprednisolone can cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or even euphoria. These effects are dose-dependent—higher doses are more likely to cause noticeable mood changes. Most people experience only mild shifts, but it's important to be aware of this possibility.
Let your family or close friends know you're taking a corticosteroid so they can help you recognize any significant mood changes.
Medrol can raise blood glucose levels, even in people without diabetes. If you have diabetes or prediabetes, monitor your blood sugar more frequently while on Medrol and talk to your doctor about adjusting your diabetes medications if needed.
Some patients notice puffiness in the face, hands, or feet due to fluid retention. This is usually mild with short courses and resolves after discontinuation.
Stomach discomfort, nausea, or indigestion can occur. Taking Medrol with food helps reduce GI side effects. If you have a history of stomach ulcers, be sure to tell your doctor—they may prescribe a stomach-protecting medication alongside Medrol.
While rare with short-term use, these side effects require medical attention. They're more common with prolonged or high-dose Medrol therapy:
Your adrenal glands naturally produce cortisol. When you take corticosteroids like Medrol for an extended period, your adrenal glands may reduce their own cortisol production. Stopping Medrol abruptly after prolonged use can lead to adrenal insufficiency—a potentially dangerous condition.
This is why you should never stop Medrol suddenly without your doctor's guidance. Your doctor will taper your dose gradually to allow your adrenal glands to recover.
Because Medrol suppresses the immune system, you may be more susceptible to infections. Watch for signs of infection such as fever, persistent sore throat, painful urination, or wounds that won't heal. To learn more about how Medrol works on your immune system, see our detailed guide.
Long-term corticosteroid use is a leading cause of medication-induced osteoporosis. If you'll be on Medrol for more than a few weeks, your doctor may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplementation, bone density monitoring, or other preventive measures.
Prolonged high-dose corticosteroid use can cause Cushing syndrome, characterized by a round face ("moon face"), fat deposits between the shoulders ("buffalo hump"), purple stretch marks, and thin skin that bruises easily.
Long-term Medrol use can increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. If you're on an extended course, your doctor may recommend regular eye exams.
In rare cases, long-term corticosteroid use can reduce blood supply to bones (most commonly the hip), causing bone tissue to die. Report any new or worsening joint pain to your doctor immediately.
Corticosteroids can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, particularly when combined with NSAIDs like Ibuprofen or Aspirin. Tell your doctor about all medications you take—see our guide on Medrol drug interactions.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following while taking Medrol:
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction to Medrol (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue) or signs of adrenal crisis (severe weakness, dizziness, fainting).
The risk profile of Medrol changes significantly based on how long you take it:
Most patients taking a short course—like a 6-day Medrol Dosepak—experience only mild, temporary side effects. Insomnia, increased appetite, and mild mood changes are the most common. These typically resolve within a few days of finishing the medication.
Extended Medrol use carries higher risks, including adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, immunosuppression, and metabolic changes. Your doctor will use the lowest effective dose and monitor you closely with regular blood work and check-ups.
While you can't eliminate all side effects, these strategies can help:
Medrol is a highly effective medication, and most patients tolerate short courses well. Understanding the potential side effects helps you recognize problems early and take preventive steps. Always follow your doctor's dosing instructions, never stop the medication abruptly, and don't hesitate to reach out if something doesn't feel right.
If you're having trouble finding Medrol at your pharmacy, MedFinder can help you locate Medrol in stock near you.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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