What effect does methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) have on serum glucose levels?

Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol) is a corticosteroid that can affect glucose metabolism in the body. One of the well-known side effects of corticosteroids is their tendency to cause hyperglycemia, which is an increase in serum glucose levels. This occurs because corticosteroids stimulate gluconeogenesis in the liver—an increase in the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources—and they also can lead to insulin resistance, where the body becomes less responsive to insulin.

As a result, patients receiving methylprednisolone may experience elevated blood sugar levels, especially those with pre-existing diabetes or metabolic disorders. This effect is particularly important for healthcare providers to monitor in patients receiving steroid therapy, as it can complicate the management of blood sugar levels. Therefore, the understanding that methylprednisolone increases serum glucose is crucial when considering potential side effects and implications for patient care.