Prednisone

Generic name: Prednisone

What is Prednisone?

Prednisone, a steroid drug, is used to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms in a variety of disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and severe cases of asthma. It may be given to treat primary or secondary adrenal cortex insufficiency (lack of sufficient adrenal hormone in the body).

What is the most important information I should know about Prednisone?

Prednisone may lower your resistance to infections and make them harder to treat. Prednisone may also mask some of the signs of an infection, making it difficult for your doctor to diagnose the infection.

A few people taking prednisone develop Kaposi's sarcoma, a form of cancer; it may disappear when the drug is stopped.

Do not get a smallpox vaccination or any other immunization while you are taking prednisone. Also avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles, which can be very serious and even fatal in both children and adults taking Prednisone.

Prednisone may reactivate a dormant case of tuberculosis (TB). If you have inactive TB and must take prednisone for an extended time, take anti-TB medication as well.

Who should not take Prednisone?

Do not take prednisone if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or have a body-wide fungus infection, such as candidiasis or cryptococcosis.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Prednisone?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Prednisone. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, eye herpes, ulcerative colitis (inflammation of the bowel), diverticulitis, stomach ulcers, hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels), a psychiatric condition, osteoporosis, myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness), or type 2 diabetes (high blood sugar).

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Dosage is determined by the condition being treated and your response to the drug. Typical starting doses can range from 5 milligrams (mg) to 60 mg a day. Once you respond to the drug, your doctor will lower the dose gradually to the minimum effective amount.

Children: Dosage is determined by the condition being treated and their response to the drug.

Treatment of acute attacks of multiple sclerosis

Adults: The usual starting dose is as much as 200 mg per day may be given for a week, followed by 80 mg every other day for a month.

How should I take Prednisone?

Take prednisone exactly as prescribed. Take prednisone with food to avoid stomach upset.

If you are on alternate-day therapy or have been prescribed a single daily dose, take prednisone in the morning with breakfast (about 8 a.m.). If you have been prescribed several doses per day, take them at evenly spaced intervals around the clock.

If you have been taking prednisone for a period of time, you may need an increased dosage of the medication before, during, and after any stressful situation. Always consult your doctor if you are anticipating stress and think you may need a temporary dosage increase.

What should I avoid while taking Prednisone?

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol and prednisone may be damaging to the stomach.

Avoid sources of infection; your immune system may be weakened while taking prednisone. Wash your hands frequently and keep them away from your mouth and eyes.

Do not receive immunizations during treatment with prednisone without first talking to your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Prednisone?

If Prednisone is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Prednisone with the following: amphotericin B, aspirin, blood thinners, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, estrogen drugs, insulin, ketoconazole, oral contraceptives, oral diabetes medication, phenobarbital, phenytoin, potent diuretics, rifampin, and troleandomycin.

What are the possible side effects of Prednisone?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: euphoria, insomnia, mood changes, personality changes, psychotic behavior, severe depression, or may worsen any existing emotional instability

At a high dosage, prednisone may cause fluid retention and high blood pressure.

With prolonged prednisone treatment, eye problems may develop (e.g., a viral or fungal eye infection, cataracts, or glaucoma). Also, the buildup of adrenal hormones in your body may cause a condition called Cushing's syndrome, marked by weight gain, a moon-faced appearance, thin, fragile skin, muscle weakness, brittle bones, and purplish stripe marks on the skin. Women are more vulnerable to this problem than men. Alternate-day therapy may help prevent the development of Cushing's syndrome.

Can I receive Prednisone if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Prednisone should be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding only if clearly needed and only if the benefit outweighs the potential risks to the child.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Prednisone?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take a double dose of the medication.

How should I store Prednisone?

Store at room temperature.