Short-term safety of pulse steroid therapy in multiple sclerosis relapses

Vahid Shaygannejad1, Fereshteh Ashtari, Mahsa Alinaghian

  • 1Department of Neurology, Isfahan Neurosciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.

Abstract

Insights

High-dose intravenous methylprednisolone is a safe short-term treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) attacks. Most adverse effects were minor and temporary, with few major events observed.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease.
  • Acute attacks require effective and safe treatment options.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the short-term safety of high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone in patients experiencing acute MS attacks.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study design.
  • Inclusion of patients with definite MS experiencing acute attacks.
  • Assessment of adverse effects through physical and laboratory examinations, and history taking, before, during, and 3 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

  • 64 patients enrolled; 71.9% were female.
  • 90.6% experienced minor adverse effects (e.g., palpitation, insomnia).
  • 18.75% experienced major adverse effects, most commonly sinus tachycardia; a significant relationship was found between dosage (3 or 5g) and major adverse effects (P=0.025).

Conclusions:

  • High-dose intravenous methylprednisolone is a safe treatment for acute MS attacks.
  • Short-term adverse effects are predominantly minor and transient.

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