How long does the Medrol dose pack take to work? 

How long does the Medrol dose pack take to work?

Medrol dose packs can take a few hours to a few days to work, depending on the condition for which you’re taking it and your overall body physiology. Medrol is Methylprednisolone, which is used for a variety of conditions. 

If it’s used for the management of pain comorbid with severe inflammation, it could take a couple of days to reduce the symptoms. However, if you’re taking it for dermatitis, you may begin to see the effects quite earlier, let’s say in 10-20 hours. 

Medrol is also used for the management and treatment of gout flare-ups and COPD and the drug takes 12-24 hours to provide relief in both of the conditions. 

If we talk about the basic pharmacology of the drug, Methylprednisolone does not take that long to work and is considered a fast-acting medication. 

However, it doesn’t mean it will resolve your symptoms that fast. It simply means it reaches the peak concentration in your blood faster. The time taken by your body to heal depends on the severity of your condition. Just make sure you take the medication in the best possible way.

What side effects are expected during the treatment with Medrol? 

Medrol is associated with some side effects which may or may not affect you. Some people are generally sensitive to meds and such people experience more of them. Let’s look at some of the common side effects of Medrol:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting 
  • Appetite changes 
  • Weight gain 
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Acid reflux 
  • High blood sugar 
  • Changes in energy levels 
  • Mood or behavioural changes

What to do if Medrol does not help your symptoms?

If you have been taking Medrol properly but you fail to see a positive change in your symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. The time taken by the medication can depend on the severity of your symptoms. 

However, Medrol may not be the best choice of medication for every other individual. If it’s not the right one for you, your doctor will recommend another medication. Make sure you don’t skip your doses and take the medication just as directed by your doctor. 

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References

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National Library of Medicine (US). Methylprednisolone. Bethesda (MD): U.S. National Library of Medicine; 2021 Mar 15 [updated 2021 Mar 15; cited 2023 Jan 28]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682795.html