This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

Hi. I looked around for the most suitable place to post this question.

Since there isn't a "steroids" option under Treatments, this seemed like the best place.

Does anyone know if steroids have a long term benefit? If so, will you please give medical article references.

I understand now that the primary benefit of steroids is reduction in length of relapse and reduction in lesion exacerbation.

Anything else?

I don't ever want to take steroids because of the side effects. I'm trying to arm myself with info for a discussion with the my Dr.

Thanks. Liesel

Liesel -- I think there is a general pro-steroids feeling, but I am with you and think the side effects FAR outweigh any benefits. Be sure to research the problems that can come with steroid use -- damage to bones and joints, frequent development of diabetes after steroid use.

I hope you have a doctor who is willing to work with you.

They have been discussed many times. I personally used pulsed oral steroids. See the threads:

http://www.thisisms.com/ftopicp-44811.html

which has research showing a reduction in EDSS for PPMS

and also the thread:

http://www.thisisms.com/ftopic-6095-day ... asc-0.html

And yes, lindacarol is right about their side effects. I was previously misdiagnosed with a condition which constant oral steroids were standard treatment, and was later found to have suffered some bone loss (which I have reversed).

There is no evidence to suggest that continuous steroid administration slows progression of MS or improves symptoms over a long period of time. The side effects of long-term continuous steroid use are serious and well-documented. These include stomach ulcers, weight gain, acne, cataracts, osteoporosis (thinning of the bones), deterioration of the head of the thigh bone, and chemical diabetes.

Oral steroids that have been taken over a long period of time should never be stopped abruptly, since they can suppress the body's own steroid production by the adrenal gland. Gradually tapering the dose downward before discontinuation of the medication allows the body time to normalize production.