Prednisone

Prednisone Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Prednisone is a brand name. Its generic name is Prednisone.

Introduction

Prednisone is a prescription corticosteroid medication used to treat a wide range of conditions. It is a synthetic agent that mimics glucocorticoids, which are naturally produced by the body. Prednisone alters the body’s immune response and has a powerful anti-inflammatory action. It is most often used to treat inflammation and pain associated with certain autoimmune and rheumatic (i.e joint related) diseases.

Uses For

Prednisone is prescribed to treat conditions such as:

• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Allergic reactions
• Skin disorders, such as eczema
• Kidney disease
• Cancer
• Multiple sclerosis
• Intestinal disorders
• Glandular disorders

Mechanism of Action

Prednisone works by suppressing the body's immune system, reducing inflammation and suppressing the body’s ability to produce certain proteins that are involved in the immune response. By reducing the activity of the immune system, prednisone can help reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage due to autoimmune and rheumatoid diseases. Additionally, prednisone works by altering the behavior of certain cells that are involved in the immune response. It decreases the production of substances that cause inflammation and constricts the airways.

How Long Does it Take to Work

The effects of prednisone vary depending on the dose and duration of treatment. Prednisone can start to take effect within hours of taking it and its effects can last for days or weeks depending on the dose. Generally, oral prednisone takes effect within 2-4 hours and its peak effects will be seen within 8-12 hours.

Absorption

Prednisone is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak blood concentrations 1-2 hours after administration. It is highly protein-bound and has a large volume of distribution.

Route of Elimination

Prednisone is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. It is slowly released from cells and metabolites are cleared from the body. The half-life of prednisone ranges from 2-4 hours.

Dosage

The dosage of prednisone depends on the condition being treated and should be taken according to the prescriber’s instructions. The usual adult dose for treating inflammation and pain is between 5-60mg daily in the form of tablets or an oral syrup. For treating rheumatoid arthritis, the usual dosage is 5-10mg once daily or intermittently as directed by the prescriber. For Asthma, the usual dosage is 5-60mg daily for up to 10 days.

Administration

Prednisone should be taken either orally or via an injection. Depending on the condition being treated, it may be taken in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup, an oral suspension or via intramuscular injection. If taking prednisone orally, it should be taken with food or a full glass of water.

Side Effects

Common side effects of prednisone include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Anxiety
• Fluid retention
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Weight gain
• Increased risk of infections
• High blood pressure
• Changes in vision

Toxicity

Long-term use of prednisone can cause serious side effects, including osteoporosis, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of infection. Prednisone should not be used in pregnancy or lactation.

Precautions

Patients taking prednisone should be monitored for any signs of side effects. Prednisone should not be taken with any other medication, unless instructed by a doctor, as it can interact with other drugs. It should not be taken for prolonged periods of time and if it is, the patient should be monitored for any signs of adverse effects.

Interaction

Prednisone can interact with certain medications, such as aspirin, antacids, digoxin, diuretics, warfarin, phenytoin, and certain antibiotics. When taking prednisone, it is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist to see if any other medications can interact with prednisone.

Disease Interaction

Patients taking prednisone should be monitored for any signs of adverse effects or medical complications. Prednisone use has been associated with an increased risk of infection, so patients should be monitored closely for any signs of infection. Patients with pre-existing infections should not use prednisone.

Drug Interaction

Prednisone can interact with many other medications and should not be taken with any other medication, unless instructed by a doctor. Prednisone can interact with antacids, aspirin, diuretics, warfarin, phenytoin, and certain antibiotics. It can also increase the risk of side effects with certain medications, including antidepressants, seizure medications, and antifungal medications.

Food Interactions

Prednisone should not be taken with certain foods, such as grapefruit juice, alcohol, and vitamin C. Prednisone may also affect the body’s absorption of dietary calcium, so it is important to monitor calcium intake when taking prednisone.

Pregnancy Use

Prednisone should not be taken during pregnancy as it can have adverse effects on the fetus. It should only be used when the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation Use

Prednisone is excreted in breast milk and should not be taken while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Signs and symptoms of a prednisone overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, confusion, dizziness, headache, fainting, seizures, and coma. If an overdose is suspected, contact your doctor or local poison control center immediately.

Contraindication

Prednisone may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions. People with a history of liver or kidney disease, a weakened immune system, or mental disorders should not take prednisone.

Use Directions

Prednisone should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. It is important to follow the directions exactly. Do not take more or less than prescribed and never stop taking it without consulting a doctor. Prednisone should be taken with food or a full glass of water.

Storage Condition

Prednisone should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and light. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets and discard any expired medication.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of prednisone is 5-10 liters/kg.

Half-Life

The half-life of prednisone ranges from 2-4 hours.

Clearance

Prednisone is primarily cleared by the kidneys. Metabolites of prednisone are slowly cleared from the body.

Here you find in details version of Prednisone

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Prednisone

What is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid drug used to treat a wide range of inflammatory, allergic, and immune conditions such as asthma, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

What are the side effects of Prednisone?

Common side effects of Prednisone include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, heartburn, dizziness, acne, increased sweating, trouble sleeping, and changes in the shape or location of body fat.

Is Prednisone a steroid?

Yes, Prednisone is a type of steroid medication.

How long does it take for Prednisone to start working?

The effects of Prednisone can vary depending on the condition being treated. In general, Prednisone begins to work within a few hours to a few days.

What is the difference between Prednisone and Prednisolone?

Prednisone and Prednisolone are both corticosteroid drugs. The difference is that Prednisone is converted to Prednisolone in the liver, so Prednisolone has a more direct effect on the body.

How long does it take for Prednisone to get out of your system?

For most people, it takes about three days for Prednisone to completely leave your system. The exact length of time can depend upon the dose and amount of time it was taken.

What are the side effects of long-term use of Prednisone?

Long-term use of Prednisone can cause a range of side effects, including weight gain, high blood pressure, reduced bone density, increased risk for infection, and increased risk of digestive problems.

Is Prednisone addictive?

No, Prednisone is not addictive.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Prednisone?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Prednisone. Alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects and can interact with Prednisone.

What is the maximum dosage of Prednisone that can be taken?

The maximum dose of Prednisone will vary depending on the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions of your health care provider when taking Prednisone.

Is Prednisone safe for pregnant women?

The use of Prednisone during pregnancy should be closely monitored by a health care provider. It is generally not advised for pregnant women to take any medications without consulting their doctor first.

Can Prednisone put my body into "shock"?

Prednisone can cause an overactive immune response, which can lead to a severe reaction called anaphylaxis, but it is unlikely to cause shock.

What should I do if I forget to take a dose of Prednisone?

If you forget to take a dose of Prednisone, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal schedule.

Should I take Prednisone with food?

Yes, it is generally recommended to take Prednisone with food. Taking Prednisone with food can help to reduce stomach upset and keep the medication from being released too quickly into the bloodstream.

Can Prednisone cause hair loss?

Yes, long-term use of Prednisone can cause hair loss in some people. If you experience hair loss while taking Prednisone, be sure to talk to your doctor about potential treatments.

Can Prednisone affect my blood sugar levels?

Yes, Prednisone can raise blood sugar levels, especially in people with pre-existing diabetes. It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels closely when taking Prednisone.

How can I reduce side effects from Prednisone?

Many of the side effects of Prednisone can be reduced by eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol. It is also important to practice good sleep hygiene and limit your caffeine intake.

Are there any natural alternatives to Prednisone?

There are some natural remedies that may be effective in treating inflammation and other symptoms that are treated with Prednisone. Examples include turmeric, ginger, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics.

Can Prednisone cause weight gain?

Yes, Prednisone can cause weight gain due to its effect on the body's metabolism and appetite. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and an active lifestyle to help reduce potential weight gain.

Can Prednisone cause mood swings or anxiety?

Yes, Prednisone can cause mood swings and anxiety due to its effect on the body's hormones. It is important to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your mood or anxiety.

Can I take ibuprofen while taking Prednisone?

No, ibuprofen should not be taken while taking Prednisone. Ibuprofen can interact with Prednisone and increase the risk of certain side effects.

Can Prednisone cause liver damage?

Prednisone has been known to cause liver damage, though this is rare. It is important to discuss any potential risk to your liver with your health care provider before taking Prednisone.

How long does it take Prednisone to work for asthma?

The effects of Prednisone can vary depending on the severity of the asthma attack. Generally, it should begin to work within a few hours to a few days.

What is the difference between Prednisone and prednisolone?

The difference between Prednisone and prednisolone is that Prednisone is converted to prednisolone in the liver, so prednisolone has a more direct effect on the body.

Does Prednisone affect blood pressure?

Yes, Prednisone can raise blood pressure by increasing salt and water retention. It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly if you are taking Prednisone.

Can Prednisone cause vision problems?

Yes, long-term use of Prednisone can cause vision problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma. It is important to discuss any vision changes with your health care provider.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Prednisone?

Yes, exercise can be beneficial while taking Prednisone. However, it is important to talk to your doctor first to make sure that the type and intensity of exercise is appropriate for your condition.

Can Prednisone cause stomach ulcers?

Yes, Prednisone can cause stomach ulcers due to its effect on the lining of the stomach. If you have stomach pain, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Can I take other medications while taking Prednisone?

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Prednisone. Some medications can interact with Prednisone and increase the risk of side effects.

Can Prednisone cause muscle weakness?

Yes, long-term use of Prednisone can cause muscle weakness due to its effect on hormones and protein metabolism. If you are experiencing muscle weakness, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Can Prednisone cause depression?

Yes, Prednisone can cause depression due to its effect on hormones and neurotransmitter levels. If you experience depression, it is important to talk to your doctor about potential treatments.

Can I take allergy medicine while taking Prednisone?

No, it is not recommended to take any other medications, including allergy medications, while taking Prednisone. Certain medications can interact with Prednisone and increase the risk of side effects.

Can I take aspirin while taking Prednisone?

No, aspirin should not be taken while taking Prednisone. Aspirin can interact with Prednisone and increase the risk of certain side effects.

How can I reduce the side effects of Prednisone?

Many of the side effects of Prednisone can be reduced by eating a healthy diet and avoiding alcohol. It is also important to practice good sleep hygiene and limit your caffeine intake.

Can Prednisone worsen existing conditions?

Yes, Prednisone can exacerbate or worsen certain existing conditions. It is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor before taking Prednisone.

Can Prednisone be used to treat autoimmune diseases?

Yes, Prednisone can be used to treat a wide range of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

Can Prednisone be used to treat cancer?

Yes, Prednisone can be used to treat some types of cancer, as well as some lymphomas and leukemias.

Can Prednisone cause skin irritation?

Yes, Prednisone can cause skin irritation due to its effect on hormones and the immune system. If you experience skin irritation, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Can Prednisone cause kidney damage?

Yes, Prednisone can cause kidney damage, though this is rare. It is important to discuss any potential risk for kidney damage with your health care provider before taking Prednisone.

What happens if I miss a dose of Prednisone?

If you miss a dose of Prednisone, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal schedule.

Is Prednisone safe for children?

Yes, Prednisone can be safely used in children. However, it is important to follow the instructions of your health care provider for the correct dosage and frequency.

Can Prednisone be used to treat infections?

Yes, Prednisone can be used to treat certain bacterial and viral infections, as well as autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation or weaken the immune system.