A doctor may prescribe prednisone for reducing inflammation or suppressing an overactive immune system. This eMedTV page discusses specific conditions that this drug is used to treat, and also lists some of its possible side effects and dosing tips.
Short-term side effects of prednisone may include headaches, insomnia, and mood changes. This part of the eMedTV Web site also lists long-term prednisone side effects and explains which require immediate medical attention.
People taking prednisone for a long time may experience weight gain. This portion of the eMedTV archives discusses prednisone and weight gain in more detail and offers suggestions for combating this problem.
It is possible to develop insomnia if you take your prednisone dosage late in the evening. This eMedTV page offers more detail on prednisone and insomnia, and includes tips for improving your sleep habits (such as keeping a regular sleep-wake cycle).
Prednisone is used for treating a number of conditions, including hormonal, skin, or respiratory disorders. This eMedTV resource lists other prednisone uses, describes how the drug works, and explains whether the medicine can be used "off-label."
To avoid long-term side effects, most people take low prednisone dosages (less than 20 mg daily). This eMedTV segment offers additional dosing information, including safety precautions and tips for those taking prednisone.
Some drugs that may potentially cause prednisone drug interactions include warfarin, phenytoin, and NSAIDs. This eMedTV page covers other drugs that can possibly cause prednisone interactions and what can happen if they're taken along with prednisone.
As this eMedTV article explains, combining alcohol and prednisone may increase the risk of stomach ulcers or other gastrointestinal bleeding. However, this page also discusses why this combination typically does not cause negative interactions.
Prednisone can weaken the immune system in some people, putting them at a higher risk of infections. This eMedTV Web page offers other prednisone warnings and precautions, including other potential side effects that may occur with the drug.
The full risks of using prednisone during pregnancy are not known. This page on the eMedTV site offers more information on prednisone and pregnancy, and describes the results of previous studies in which prednisone was given to pregnant animals.
This eMedTV page explains that while prednisone passes through breast milk in low amounts, it could potentially cause serious side effects in a nursing baby. This page covers some precautions to be aware of with regard to prednisone and breastfeeding.
Generic prednisone, which is sold under the name Prednisone tablets, comes in six different strengths. This eMedTV article explains which companies currently manufacture generic prednisone products and lists the various drug strengths available.
Symptoms of prednisone withdrawal can include fever, difficulty breathing, and loss of appetite. This eMedTV Web page lists other potential symptoms and explains the steps your doctor may take to reduce your risk of withdrawal symptoms.
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