Why should you take Methylprednisolone before breakfast? 

Why should you take Methylprednisolone before breakfast?

It is recommended to take Methylprednisolone before breakfast or early in the morning so that it mimics the effects of your body’s own steroidal hormone – Cortisone (1). 

Your body releases Cortisone in the morning, which is your natural corticosteroid. This is why it’s best to take Methylprednisolone in the morning. 

However, you may need to take your doses at separate times as you can take up to 6 tablets in one day. This is why most dose packs require you to divide the doses throughout the day, including nighttime. 

Methylprednisolone may cause insomnia if taken later at night because it increases your mental alertness and makes it difficult for you to fall asleep. If your dose pack suggests taking a dose of Methylprednisolone at bedtime, take it 3-4 hours before you go to sleep (2). 

Can Methylpredsiolne cause gastrointestinal side effects when taken on an empty stomach? 

Yes, Methylprednisolone can cause gastrointestinal side effects when taken on an empty stomach. The mechanism behind this is related to the drug’s ability to irritate the lining of the stomach (3).

When Methylprednisolone is taken on an empty stomach, it is absorbed more rapidly into the bloodstream. This rapid absorption can lead to higher drug concentrations in the stomach lining, increasing the risk of irritation. 

The drug can disrupt the protective mucus layer in the stomach, making it more susceptible to the acidic environment, causing irritation and pain.

As a result, individuals may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, and even the development of stomach ulcers and potential gastrointestinal bleeding (4). 

These GI side effects may become more pronounced if you’re taking other stomach irritants, like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, along with Methylprednisolone. 

To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, it is generally recommended to take Methylprednisolone with food or after a meal. This can help protect the stomach lining and reduce the likelihood of irritation.

What to do if you’re experiencing gastrointestinal side effects while taking Methylprednisolone?

If you experience any gastrointestinal side effects while taking Methylprednisolone, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on managing these side effects and may adjust the dosage or recommend alternative dosing strategies (2).

If you are prescribed a short-term course of Prednisone, finish the entire prescribed duration, even if you start feeling better. On the other hand, if you are on a long-term treatment plan, your doctor may periodically adjust the dosage based on your response to the medication and your medical condition.

To minimize potential side effects, take Prednisone with food or milk to protect your stomach. If you experience any concerning side effects or new symptoms while taking Prednisone, inform your healthcare provider promptly.

Additionally, it’s essential to inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Prednisone. Avoid alcohol consumption while on Prednisone, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Final words

Although it is beneficial to take Methylprednisolone in the morning or before breakfast to mimic the body’s natural release of cortisone, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects when taken on an empty stomach. 

The drug’s rapid absorption on an empty stomach can lead to irritation of the stomach lining, resulting in symptoms like indigestion, stomach pain, and nausea. 

To minimize these side effects, it is advisable to take Methylprednisolone with food or after a meal to provide protection to the stomach lining.

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References

1.-

Fisher LE, Ludwig EA, Wald JA, Sloan RR, Middleton E Jr, Jusko WJ. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of methylprednisolone when administered at 8 am versus 4 pm. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1992 Jun;51(6):677-88. doi: 10.1038/clpt.1992.80. PMID: 1535301; PMCID: PMC4207308. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1535301/

2.-

Ocejo A, Correa R. Methylprednisolone. 2022 Dec 11. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31335060. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544340

3.-

Koshi EJ, Young K, Mostales JC, Vo KB, Burgess LP. Complications of Corticosteroid Therapy: A Comprehensive Literature Review. J Pharm Technol. 2022 Dec;38(6):360-367. doi: 10.1177/87551225221116266. Epub 2022 Aug 30. PMID: 36311302; PMCID: PMC9608099. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36311302/

4.-

Narum S, Westergren T, Klemp M. Corticosteroids and risk of gastrointestinal bleeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2014 May 15;4(5):e004587. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-004587. PMID: 24833682; PMCID: PMC4025450. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24833682/