Methylprednisolone typically begins to work within a short time after administration, but the exact onset depends on the route of administration:

• Intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone succinate : The onset of action occurs within about 1 hour after injection

• Oral methylprednisolone : Peak effects usually occur within 1 to 2 hours after taking the medication

• Intra-articular (joint) injection of methylprednisolone acetate : The onset is slower, starting around 1 week after injection, with effects lasting 1 to 5 weeks

In terms of symptom relief, especially for inflammation, some people may notice improvement within hours, but generally, relief can be expected within 1 to 4 days

. The pharmacological action involves methylprednisolone binding to glucocorticoid receptors and modulating gene transcription to reduce inflammation and immune responses

. The drug is rapidly absorbed and distributed, with a half-life of about 2 to 5 hours depending on the administration route

. In summary, methylprednisolone works quickly when given intravenously or orally, with effects seen within 1 hour to a few hours, while joint injections take longer to show effects, usually about a week