Prednisone Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that is used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, arthritis, and lupus. It is a powerful medication that can be effective in reducing inflammation and pain. However, it is also important to be aware of the potential side effects of prednisone.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of prednisone include:

• Weight gain
• Increased appetite
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Acne
• Skin thinning
• Bruising
• Increased hair growth
• Muscle weakness

Serious Side Effects

In some cases, prednisone can cause more serious side effects, such as:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Osteoporosis
• Avascular necrosis
• Adrenal insufficiency

Who Is at Risk for Side Effects?

The risk of developing side effects from prednisone depends on a number of factors, including:

• The dose of prednisone
• The length of time you take prednisone
• Your age
• Your overall health

People who are taking high doses of prednisone for a long period of time are at the highest risk for developing side effects.

How to Reduce Side Effects

There are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of developing side effects from prednisone, including:

• Take the lowest dose of prednisone that is effective for you.
• Take prednisone with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Avoid taking prednisone for long periods of time.
• Talk to your doctor about ways to manage side effects, such as taking calcium supplements to prevent osteoporosis.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects from prednisone, such as:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Sudden vision changes
• Severe headaches
• Weakness
• Confusion

Conclusion

Prednisone is a powerful medication that can be effective in treating a variety of inflammatory conditions. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of prednisone and to take steps to reduce your risk of developing them.