Description
Prednisone is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and arthritis. Prednisone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. Prednisone is available as an oral tablet.
Side Effects
Prednisone can cause serious side effects. Prednisone may increase your risk of developing infections, such as tuberculosis or fungal infections. Prednisone may also make you more susceptible to other infections, such as chickenpox or measles. Prednisone may also cause thinning of the bones (osteoporosis), cataracts, glaucoma, and a condition known as Cushing’s syndrome. Prednisone may also increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as leukemia or lymphoma. Prednisone should be used only when prescribed by your doctor.
You should not stop using prednisone suddenly. Prednisone can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Dosages
Prednisone is available in the following dosages:
– Prednisone 5 mg
– Prednisone 10 mg
– Prednisone 20 mg
– Prednisone 50 mg
Prednisone should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Prednisone may be taken with or without food. If you have stomach upset, you can take prednisone with food or milk. Prednisone should be taken with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break a tablet. Swallow the tablet
Precautions
Prednisone should not be used by people who are allergic to it or to other corticosteroids such as methylprednisolone (Medrol), Prednisolone (Orapred), or triamcinolone (Kenalog). Prednisone should also not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as a fungal infection, a viral infection, or an autoimmune disorder. Prednisone should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Prednisone may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Prednisone should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as a fungal infection, a viral infection, or an autoimmune disorder. Prednisone should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Prednisone may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Prednisone should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as a fungal infection, a viral infection, or an autoimmune disorder.
