Corticosteroid preparations have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used widely for the treatment of allergic disorders and asthma. Steroids themselves, however, can induce hypersensitivity reactions. In this study, we report the case of a 66-year-old man with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who exhibited an allergic reaction (rash, bronchospasm, bradycardia, severe hypotension and cardiac arrest) immediately after the intravenous injection of methylprednisolone sodium succinate. Despite cardiopulmonary resuscitation, sinus rhythm was not restored. The anesthesiologist should be aware that allergic reactions to corticosteroids can occur.