Prednisone, marketed at times under the names Deltasone, Sterapred and others, is a medication used in the management of a variety of medical conditions related to inflammation.

What Is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a medication belonging to corticosteroids. This medication may be prescribed for the treatment of different health problems, like skin conditions, allergic disorders, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, or breathing disorders. Naturally, the dosage of this mediation is prescribed based on different factors, including the type of problems that needs to be cured. This medication works by prevents the release of substances causing inflammation in the body. Prednisone treats many different conditions such as allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, or breathing disorders. You should avoid taking prednisone if you have a fungal infection that requires oral antifungals. Topical antifungals may not be an issue, but always let your doctor know what medicines you're taking before starting this medicine. Steroid medication can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to get an infection. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using prednisone.

How should I take prednisone?

Take prednisone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Take prednisone with food. Your dosage needs may change if you have any unusual stress such as a serious illness, fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Do not change your medication dose or schedule without your doctor's advice. Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not crush, chew, or break a delayed-release tablet. Swallow it whole. While using this medicine, you may need frequent blood tests at your doctor's office. Your blood pressure may also need to be checked. This medication can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using this medicine. You should not stop using prednisone suddenly. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose. Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card stating that you take prednisone. Any medical care provider who treats you should know that you are using a steroid. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What should I avoid?

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Call your doctor for preventive treatment if you are exposed to chicken pox or measles. These conditions can be serious or even fatal in people who are using a steroid. Do not receive a "live" vaccine while using this medicine. Prednisone may increase your risk of harmful effects from a live vaccine. Live vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), rotavirus, yellow fever, varicella (chickenpox), one type of the typhoid vaccine and nasal flu (influenza) vaccine. Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking prednisone.

What can I do to stay healthy while taking prednisone?

Your healthcare provider will weigh the possible benefits and side effects when giving this and other medications. Many people have benefitted from prednisone without serious side effects. Talking to your healthcare provider, using your medication as instructed, and taking the necessary precautions, can help you benefit from prednisone while managing side effects.  Here are some things you can do to keep yourself healthy:

Prednisone side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to prednisone: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

Other common prednisone side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.