Steroidal meds such as corticosteroids are commonly administered for treating a few clinical conditions. Prednisone and methylprednisolone are two of the widely used meds in this category. These meds are administered for the treatment of inflammatory conditions like arthritis, allergic reactions as well as some forms of blood conditions, skin problems, and those related to the malfunctioning of immunity cells. What are the differences between prednisone and methylprednisolone? It is essential to have more details about these meds before you start consuming them.
What is prednisone?
This med is administered to alter the potential of your immune system. The active ingredients present in prednisone enable the reduction of problems such as internal swelling and inflammation. Owing to these properties, this steroidal med is taken for case management of painful joints, discomforts caused by arthritis, ocular problems, and breathing difficulties like panting, wheezing, and gasping for breath.
Prednisone may however trigger some adverse side effects. These can include blurring of vision, mental conditions like being excessively depressed as well as mood swings and staying anxious and/or restless. Continued use of this med – over a longer timeline – may lead to bone losses (among children) and/or delay in growth in teens and younger adults.
What is methylprednisolone?
Like prednisone, this med is also a corticosteroid; it is consumed for treating inflammation caused by arthritis, bone-related conditions, respiratory disorders such as bronchial asthma or bronchitis, etc. The key chemicals of methylprednisolone work on immunity cells to provide relief from swelling, itchiness, and other allergic conditions.
At times, this drug is administered along with other drugs for the treatment of a few types of hormonal imbalances. It is widely sold and available as a tablet form and also as an injectable version. This is however not an over-the-counter drug; hence, its use is strictly under the guidance and supervision of a qualified caregiver.
Differences between prednisone and methylprednisolone
Both these drugs are grouped under the same genre i.e., corticosteroids. The key difference is methylprednisolone is available as an injection. This form makes way for quicker relief from inflammatory conditions and associated discomforts. On the other hand, prednisone is generally sold as a tablet and as an oral form. Another glaring difference: methylprednisolone is stronger than prednisone – but, only at a marginal level. For example, a 5 mg dose of prednisone is equivalent to 4 mg of methylprednisolone.
It is essential to pursue the dosage plan until your doctor tells you to discontinue. It can be dangerous to stop the plan without telling your physician. People who discontinued abruptly may witness headaches, fatigue, weakness, and abdominal problems like vomiting, indigestion, or nausea. Upon witnessing any such adverse effects, it is safe to consult with your caregiver and take needful help on an urgent basis.
In general, the caregiving team tapers off the last few dosages of methylprednisolone or prednisone in a slow but steady mode. Such an approach is known to avoid the possible incidence of signs of withdrawal. These may show up as drowsiness, being dizzy, and tremors/shaking of the body. Also, it can be unsafe to engage in tasks that may require a fairly high level of focus or mental concentration. Hence, your doctor may advise you to keep away from activities like working on heavy machinery, driving, or adventurous activities like cycling or swimming. It is always a safe thing to take methylprednisolone or prednisone under the supervision of your caregiver.
Education: Bachelor’s in Psychology from Stanford University; Master’s in Health Communication from Boston University. Experience: Over 12 years of experience as a health writer and content strategist, working with healthcare organizations to create patient-centric content.
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