WHAT IS PREDNISONE?Prednisone is an anti-inflammatory drug. It belongs to the corticosteroid family (adrenal cortex hormones). These are so-called because they are also produced by the body itself, in the adrenal glands. The corticosteroid produced by the body itself is called cortisol. Under certain circumstances, such as stress, the adrenal gland produces more cortisol.
Corticosteroids like prednisone are prescribed for all kinds of inflammatory diseases, not only skin diseases but also for other conditions such as rheumatism, asthma, and for patients who have undergone a kidney transplant. Prednisone suppresses the body's immune system. This causes all kinds of inflammation to disappear. Of course, this also has its drawbacks, as a strong immune system is also necessary to combat infections.
There are many different types of corticosteroids, including prednisone, prednisolone (which is the same thing), dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, cortisone, betamethasone, and methylprednisolone.
Besides prednisone tablets, it is also available as injections, as infusions, and in various topical products (corticosteroid-containing creams and ointments, also called hormone ointments).
In dermatology, prednisone is primarily used for eczema, but also for blistering conditions and allergic reactions. The list of skin conditions for which it can be used is long. Prednisone works quickly, sometimes within a few days. However, it can also take several weeks to achieve the desired result.
Prednisone is a powerful agent, a miracle cure, but because it can also cause side effects, it is only used when absolutely necessary.HOW SHOULD I USE PREDNISONE?Prednisone is usually prescribed as a tablet or capsule. You should take the tablets or capsules with water or milk during or after breakfast, unless your doctor prescribes otherwise. Prednisone is sometimes administered as an IV.WHAT ARE THE MAIN SIDE EFFECTS?Side effects depend on the amount of prednisone you use and the duration of treatment. The package insert you received from your pharmacist should list all side effects that have ever occurred. This is a long list, as is often the case with package inserts.
The main side effects that can occur are:
- Weight gain, facial swelling, and fluid retention.
- Bruising and fragile skin, which is more susceptible to injury from bumps.
- Increased blood pressure.
- A mild form of diabetes.
- Increased susceptibility to infections.
- With prolonged use, prednisone can cause osteoporosis (brittle bones).
- Increased risk of developing a stomach ulcer, especially if you are also taking painkillers (NSAIDs).
Side effects can be prevented by taking medication for osteoporosis or stomach acid reduction immediately after starting prednisone. If a side effect does occur, your doctor can take appropriate measures (for example, treating the diabetes or prescribing additional calcium tablets).CONTROLSThe most important things to monitor while taking prednisone are your weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar (glucose) levels. These can be checked by your GP or during hospital visits.WHAT SHOULD I PAY ATTENTION TO WHEN USE PREDNISONE?In illnesses accompanied by fever , your body temporarily requires more prednisone. Your doctor can adjust the dosage if necessary. Fever can be a sign of infection; report it to your doctor if you develop a fever. You should not simply stop taking
prednisone after prolonged use ; this is dangerous. When you stop, your adrenal glands suddenly have to start producing cortisol again, and this doesn't always happen immediately. If the prednisone dose can be reduced or stopped altogether, your doctor will give you a tapering schedule, a list of how much you should use per day or per week for the coming period. The dose of prednisone will be gradually reduced and then stopped if possible.Fertility, pregnancy and breastfeedingPrednisone does not affect fertility in either men or women.
Prednisone use during pregnancy is considered relatively safe.
Prednisone is excreted in breast milk (in small amounts).
If you use a low dose, there is likely little risk to the baby.
If you are considering pregnancy or intend to breastfeed, consult your dermatologist first.VaccinationsThe flu vaccine (influenza shot) is available and effective.
For other vaccinations, consult your doctor or dermatologist.Operations and other proceduresIf you need surgery, your body may need more prednisone for a short time. Therefore, always inform your doctor and/or anesthesiologist about your prednisone use if you need surgery! Your doctor will usually adjust your prednisone dosage temporarily.
Prednisone can delay wound healing and increase the risk of wound infections . Be aware of this and notify your doctor if you suspect your wound is infected.Using prednisone with other medicationsAlways tell your GP, dentist, and specialist what medications you're taking. This also includes any
over-the-counter medications you may be taking.
Taking different medications simultaneously isn't always safe. When entering your medications into the computer, your pharmacist can see if they're safe to take together. This monitoring system only works, of course, if you get everything from the same pharmacy, or if your pharmacist knows exactly what you're taking. |
