Do you know why the doctor would prescribe medrol for hiv patient whose vl is about 28,000 and cd4 about 300. No plans to start first time HAART for another 2-3 months. There is redness and rashes (tied to hiv?) over different spots on the body. Every label for Medrol says not to use if you have a serious viral or bacterial infection as it reduces immune response all the more and may make a body more susceptible to hiv and/or other infections. Any pointers will be helpful. Thank you for your wonderful work...God bless.

Thanks for the question.

We use short course steroids, like Medrol on occcasion in many patients (even those who are not on HAART). The implications of the use is possible decrease in immune function, but over the 4-5 day course of treatment, this shouldn't be a significant problem.

Your question does point out that there are always some degree of risk and benefit for using medications. I'd trust that there is perceived benefit from the use of Medrol, otherwise, I'd not recommend it. -BY