Prednisone is a corticosteroid that is used for the treatment of a wide range of allergic conditions. Some of these conditions are skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, lupus, psoriasis and breathing disorders.
How does it work
Prednisone is an immunosuppressant. It limits the release of certain chemicals in the body which are secreted during allergic conditions.
Taking Prednisone & the right dosage
Prednisone may be taken with or without a meal.
Storage
Store Prednisone in a cool and dark place at room temperature. Do not store it in a place where it can get exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Keep it away from children and pets.
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Before using Prednisone, you should consult a physician and discuss about your medical history.
Prednisone may not be suitable for you if:
Diarrhea or any condition that can cause it
You have liver disease
You have kidney disease
You have heart disease
You have high blood pressure
You have low levels of potassium in your blood
You have a thyroid disorder
You have diabetes
You have TB
You have had Malaria frequently in the past
You have eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts
You have a herpes infection of the eye
You have bleeding peptic ulcers
You have muscle disorders such as myasthenia gravis
You have depression or mental illness.
Other Information
Prednisone can cause bone loss if your diet lacks calcium or Vitamin D. The risk increases if you smoke.
It weakens your immune system so avoid contact with people who have contagious infections like common cold, chicken pox etc.
Live vaccines must be avoided while using Prednisone. This includes measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, typhoid, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), zoster (shingles), and nasal flu (influenza) vaccine.
Drug Interactions
Prednisone may interact with some medications. So if you are using any prescription, non prescription, OTC medicines or dietary supplements, then inform your physician in advance before you use Prednisone.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Prednisone are:
Sleep problems (insomnia), mood changes; increased appetite, gradual weight gain; acne, increased sweating, dry skin, thinning skin, bruising or discoloration; slow wound healing; headache, dizziness, spinning sensation; nausea, stomach pain, bloating; or changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).
These side effects usually subside by themselves in sometime as the body gets used to Prednisone.
Some uncommon but potentially dangerous side effects are:
Blurred vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights; swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath; severe depression, feelings of extreme happiness or sadness, changes in personality or behavior, seizure ; bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood; pancreatitis; low potassium ; or high blood pressure.
You should see a doctor immediately if one of these side effects occur.
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