Scared to take Prednisone Prescribed?

My doctor prescribed 21 tablet dose of MethylPREDNISolone Tablets, 4 mg for my "wont go away sinus infection". I googled it and read that "weight gain of up to 5lbs at once" is a common side effect? Does anyone have experience taking this? Is this for somone who takes this rx pretty regulary? This is a one time dose for me but am scared as I don't think it is worth the possiblity of gaining 5 pounds!!! I have taken this rx several times in the past, put that was when I was already overweight and any weight gain was lost on me... Rachelle

Hi Rachelle, Methylprednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are naturally-occurring chemicals produced by the adrenal glands located adjacent to the kidneys. Methylprednisolone is used to achieve prompt suppression of inflammation. It comes in 2mg, 4mg, 8mg, 16mg, 24mg and 32mg tablets (I would be more worried about weight gain if I were prescribed the 32mg tabs!). If it were me, I would take it as a one-time 4mg dose for recurrent sinus infection. Yes, weight gain is a side effect, but fluid retention may be the predominant reason. Let's face it - after RNY, most people cannot take in the **17,500 extra calories** required for a five-pound gain. As always, call your doctor and address your concerns directly. I hope this helps. Feel better soon! Kristen

take it if you need it.. its only a one time thing... most of the weight gain with stuff like this is water weight... you will be fine... feel better soon

I just had sinus surgery and had to take the prednisone pre op and the medrol dose pack for 5 days after. I did not gain any weight. You need the med to decrease the inflammation so the sinus can drain and you won't get an infection. Watch what you eat, prednisone makes you feel like super woman, and you will want to eat. Stay away from the carbs. blessings, Tami

Take it. If you have a weight gain, it will flush out. I've taken prednisone twice since my surgery three years ago. I didn't have any problems. Good Luck! Deb 262/106

I took it 2 years ago and it started burning my pouch at about 3 days. I had to go off it and take nexium for a month. Be careful with it.