Prednisone

Prednisone is a drug which falls under the category of drugs known as corticosteroids. Prednisone is a drug which stops the release of those substances which result in inflammation in the body. This drug is one which can be used for treating many types of conditions. These include skin problems, arthritis, breathing problems and even allergies. Prednisone however should not be used if you are allergic to it or have any type of a fungal disease on your body.

Since prednisone is a steroid, before making use of the drug you must tell your doctor every medical problem which you have or have had in the past.

If, while on prednisone you experience high levels of stress resulting from an illness, some type of an infection or if you have had any type of medical surgery, inform your doctor. Your medication would have to be changed as the stress would be something which affects your treatment.

Your doctor needs to be aware of any illness/infection which you may have had before beginning to use prednisone. This is because prednisone weakens the immune system and makes you more vulnerable to illnesses and other diseases. Due to this, being close to sick people is also something which must be avoided as a precautionary measure.

The dosage and prescription of prednisone by your doctor should be followed accurately. Only take the drug as prescribed by your doctor; taking prednisone in large amounts or for longer than it has been recommended can prove to be harmful if not approved by your doctor. Also, prednisone should not be stopped all of a sudden as this could lead to experiencing withdrawal symptoms which would be quite unpleasant. If you have been given prednisone in liquid form, make sure that you measure the dose using a measuring cup/spoon. Make sure that a regular spoon is not used.

As with any other drug, prednisone too has its own side effects. And just like any other drug, you must contact your physician if any of the side effects are experienced as the dosage may need to be changed. You would have to visit your doctor if you experience:

• vision problems
• if you start gaining weight suddenly and experience swelling
• difficulty in breathing
• if you experience blood in your stool and even cough up blood
• if pain is experienced in the upper part of your stomach and back
• high heart rate
• increase in blood pressure

Some of the other, less serious side effects may include

• problems in sleeping
• development of acne
• headache and dizzy spells
• vomiting and pains in the stomach
• slow healing of wounds

Whether the side effects experienced are severe or less severe, if experienced, medical help should be taken as your dose might require to be changed.