Unexpected Injection Confusion: Methylprednisolone Administered Instead of Depo-Provera
My sister, who is 36 years old, weighs 135 lbs and stands at 4'11", went to receive her medroxyprogesterone acetate shot today. Upon returning home with my mom, they discovered that an injection of methylprednisolone had been administered by mistake. My sister has special needs, and my mom, often relying on online information, didn’t ask any questions, leaving me with minimal details about the incident. I am particularly worried about whether she received 150 mg of the methylprednisolone, which is the same dosage as the medroxyprogesterone. She has no existing medical issues. I understand that injectable steroids usually don’t require a tapering process, but I’m wondering if there are any specific side effects to be aware of besides the common ones like fluid retention and potential weight gain. Are there any additional risks or symptoms I should monitor for?
Answers (1)
7/3/2025, 1:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your sister receiving the wrong injection. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid that can have side effects, but the risks depend on the dosage, duration of use, and individual health factors.
Key Points:
-
Potential Side Effects of Methylprednisolone: Common side effects include fluid retention, weight gain, increased appetite, and mood changes. More serious effects can include elevated blood sugar levels, increased risk of infections, and changes in blood pressure.
-
Dosage Consideration: If your sister did indeed receive the same dosage as the medroxyprogesterone acetate shot (150 mg), it's still important to note that this amount could be concerning if there are unexpected reactions, especially in someone without pre-existing health issues.
Explanation:
Methylprednisolone works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. While it can be beneficial for certain conditions, it can also lead to side effects, particularly when used in higher doses or for longer periods. It's important to watch for not just the common side effects you mentioned, but also more serious reactions.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor for Side Effects: Keep an eye on her closely for the following symptoms:
- Increased Thirst and Hunger: Changes in appetite or thirst could indicate changes in blood sugar levels.
- Mood Changes: Track any unusual mood swings or mental confusion.
- Signs of Infection: Look for symptoms such as fever, aches, or other indicators of infection, which may arise due to immune suppression.
- Fluid Retention: Notice any swelling in her feet or legs and unexpected weight gain.
-
Document Symptoms: If any side effects occur, make detailed notes. Track dates, severity, and any other relevant changes.
-
Stay Informed: Encourage your mother to ask questions during such situations in the future. It's important to understand what medication is being administered.
-
Emergency Signs: Be vigilant for severe side effects such as shortness of breath, severe depression, or signs of an allergic reaction (like rash or difficulty breathing), and be prepared to seek immediate medical assistance if these occur.
In general, while methylprednisolone doesn’t usually require a tapering process when given as a single injection, keeping a close observation is key. If you're ever uncertain or if your sister shows any concerning symptoms, reach out for professional medical advice as soon as possible. It's better to ask and be safe.
Related Questions
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?
When Can I Expect to Drive Again?
I’m a 35-year-old who suffered a spiral fracture in my right leg affecting both the fibula and tibia. Five weeks post-surgery, I've begun my rehabilitation journey, having undergone physical therapy for three weeks now. I’ve noticed that my leg is beginning to regain sensation, with improved control over my ankle and feeling returning to the sole of my foot. Given this progress, what is a realistic timeframe for when I might be able to drive safely once more?
Seeking Help for Ongoing Health Issues
I am reaching out in desperation for assistance! I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered similar health concerns or could recommend medications or specialists I should consider consulting. I'm truly at a loss and need guidance. As a 23-year-old male vegetarian weighing around 48 kg and standing at 5’4”, I have struggled with being underweight since my childhood. This condition has left me feeling utterly drained and overwhelmed. I’m eager to make a change but feel lost regarding where to begin or which healthcare professional to consult. In my youth, I was diagnosed with asthma, which has significantly improved; however, I continue to deal with low immunity, as I frequently catch colds and coughs from minor exposure to cold environments. Additionally, I’ve noticed that for the past few years, my body temperature feels abnormally high compared to those around me. I experience heat more acutely than my peers. Previously, I was quite active and could walk 4–5 kilometers daily without difficulty. Nowadays, even a short walk of 1–2 kilometers or climbing a few flights of stairs leaves me out of breath and exhausted. Even on days of little physical exertion, I feel weak and lethargic, as though all my vitality has been drained. My appetite has always been low, despite my efforts to increase it. I struggle to consume what would be considered an average meal for someone my age. Just two chapatis or a small bowl of rice or lentils fills me up completely, and attempting to eat more causes discomfort. I often find it perplexing how others manage to eat such larger portions. Dining out has become a challenge for me since even half a plate feels overwhelmingly full. Being extremely slender has made it difficult to find clothing that fits well and has adversely impacted my confidence over the years. For around 15 years, I have hesitated to take photographs of myself. Social and professional circles often regard me as younger than I am, sometimes even as a child, which has contributed to my feelings of invisibility and insecurity. My sensitivity to heat has intensified over the last few years. In seemingly normal room temperatures, I start sweating profusely while those around me remain comfortable. During cold weather, even in temperatures as low as 8°C, I don’t wear warm clothing, as I sweat excessively and feel anxious about overheating. The discomfort can escalate to a point where I feel faint from the heat. In my workplace, where the air conditioning is set at a standard temperature, I find it challenging. I begin to sweat visibly, leaving my clothes damp and prompting coworkers to inquire about my wellbeing. I often feel breathless and anxious that I might collapse if I remain there too long. This makes it very difficult to stay at the office or use public transportation, as even air-conditioned buses can feel uncomfortably warm to me. Over the past year, my situation has deteriorated further. I can no longer tolerate hot or even mildly spiced home-cooked meals, which I used to enjoy without issues. Now, even mildly spiced foods lead to excessive sweating, reddening of my face, and an intense burning sensation in my mouth, akin to consuming overly spicy dishes. As a result, my food intake has diminished even more. I often face ridicule for my dietary limitations, and I’m growing weary of trying to explain my condition, especially when my own family doesn't fully grasp the depth of my struggles, which adds to my distress. I am sharing my story because I truly need help. I wish to identify the underlying issues with my health and seek proper medical attention. If anyone has experienced similar problems or can recommend a suitable type of medical professional to consult, I would greatly appreciate your guidance and support during this challenging time. Thank you. 😭
Interpretation Request for Recent Spinal NM Bone Scan
Hello, doctors. I'm reaching out for your insights regarding a recent NM bone scan of my spine. I've previously undergone a similar scan in 2022, and I'd like to compare the two. To provide context, I am a 29-year-old female weighing 100 kg, and I've been diagnosed with conditions including endplate sclerosis, spinal stenosis, cervical bone spurs, degenerative disc disease (DDD), and mild scoliosis. My medication regimen consists of several prescriptions. Unfortunately, my next appointment with my general practitioner is still a few weeks away, so I would appreciate your assessments on how the latest scan compares to the previous one. Thank you in advance for your help!
Unexpected Eye Issues: Headache and Double Vision Concerns
A 33-year-old female, measuring 1.67 meters in height and weighing 55 kilograms, residing in the Netherlands, experienced a sudden onset of symptoms. Last evening, shortly after dinner, my partner complained of a slight headache localized at the rear of her head. Along with this discomfort, she encountered double vision and noticed her right eye deviating outward. Interestingly, when she shut either eye, the double vision resolved, enabling her to see without distortion. We rushed her to the emergency room later that night. The medical team conducted a variety of assessments, including physical examinations, neurological evaluations, visual tests, and laboratory analyses. Fortunately, all results were normal. However, the doctors found it peculiar that her right eye exhibited normal movement and accurately tracked a pen in all directions when her left eye was closed. The medical opinion suggested that it may be a migraine-related episode, a condition she has experienced previously. Nonetheless, she insists that this feels unlike any migraine she has had in the past. A teleconsultation with a neurologist is scheduled for Monday to arrange an MRI should the symptoms continue. The doctors advised that if her symptoms worsen, we should return to the hospital immediately. Fortunately, after a night's rest, her vision had returned to normal by morning, the headache had subsided, and her right eye was aligned properly. I am understandably concerned, particularly due to her assertion that this does not resemble a typical migraine. Is it possible that this is indeed a migraine, or could it be indicative of another underlying issue? Thank you for your attention to this matter.