Steroid Treatment

What it is

Steroid treatment uses high doses of corticosteroids, often methylprednisolone, to calm down the inflammation during an MS relapse. It can be given by IV or as pills over a few days. Steroids do not change the long-term course of MS, but they can help symptoms improve faster during a flare.

Why it matters for you

Steroids may come up during relapse conversations. Knowing what they are for, and what they are not for, makes the trade-offs easier to understand.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Has this lasted more than 24 hours?
• Could this be a pseudo-exacerbation (heat, infection, stress)?
• Should I come in for an exam?
• Would steroid treatment help?
• Should I go to the ER?

Related terms

Find MS treatment centers near you

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