What are the common side effects of long-term prednisone use. How can patients manage weight gain associated with prednisone. What serious side effects should patients watch out for when taking prednisone long-term. How does prednisone affect mood and mental health. What precautions should be taken when stopping long-term prednisone treatment.

Understanding Prednisone and Its Long-Term Effects

Prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, is widely prescribed for various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. While effective, its long-term use can lead to numerous side effects. The severity and likelihood of these effects typically increase with higher doses and prolonged use.

Are all patients equally susceptible to prednisone side effects? No, the risk varies among individuals. Those taking lower doses are generally less likely to experience significant side effects. However, even at low doses, some patients may still develop complications over time.

Common Side Effects of Long-Term Prednisone Use

Long-term prednisone use can result in several common side effects affecting various body systems. These effects occur in more than 1 in 100 people and may include:

• Weight gain
• Indigestion
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Excessive sweating
• Mood changes

Can these side effects be managed effectively? Yes, in many cases, lifestyle modifications and additional treatments can help mitigate these effects. Let’s explore each of these common side effects in more detail.

Weight Gain: Causes and Management

Weight gain is a frequent concern for patients on long-term prednisone therapy. This side effect occurs due to increased appetite and water retention induced by the medication.

How can patients manage prednisone-related weight gain? Consider the following strategies:

1. Maintain a balanced diet without increasing portion sizes
2. Engage in regular exercise to help stabilize weight
3. Monitor sodium intake to reduce water retention
4. Consult with a dietitian for personalized nutritional guidance

It’s important to note that once prednisone treatment is discontinued, appetite and fluid balance typically return to normal, often resulting in weight loss.

Dealing with Indigestion

Indigestion is another common side effect of prednisone use. To minimize gastrointestinal discomfort:

• Take prednisone with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Avoid rich or spicy foods that may exacerbate symptoms
• Consider taking an antacid or acid reducer if recommended by your doctor

If indigestion persists or worsens, patients should consult their healthcare provider. In some cases, additional medication to protect the stomach lining may be prescribed.

Managing Sleep Disturbances and Restlessness

Prednisone can disrupt sleep patterns and cause feelings of restlessness. To improve sleep quality:

• Take prednisone in the morning to minimize nighttime drug levels
• Establish a consistent sleep schedule
• Practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding screens before bedtime
• Consider relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises

If sleep problems persist, discuss potential solutions with your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dosing schedule or prescribe sleep aids if appropriate.

Coping with Excessive Sweating

Increased sweating is a less common but bothersome side effect of prednisone. To manage this issue:

• Wear loose, breathable clothing
• Use a strong antiperspirant
• Stay hydrated to replace lost fluids
• Consider using moisture-wicking fabrics

If excessive sweating significantly impacts quality of life, consult your doctor. They may suggest alternative treatments or adjust your medication regimen.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Attention

While less common, long-term prednisone use can lead to serious side effects that require prompt medical attention. These may include:

• Signs of infection
• Symptoms of high blood sugar
• Indications of Cushing’s syndrome
• Adrenal gland problems
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Pancreatic issues

How can patients recognize these serious side effects? Be alert for the following symptoms:

Identifying Signs of Infection

Prednisone can suppress the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Watch for:

• High fever and chills
• Severe sore throat or ear pain
• Persistent cough or changes in sputum
• Painful urination
• Non-healing wounds or mouth sores

If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications from infections.

Recognizing High Blood Sugar Symptoms

Long-term prednisone use can affect blood sugar levels. Be aware of the following signs:

• Excessive thirst and hunger
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Blurred vision
• Fruity-smelling breath

If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They may need to adjust your treatment or start diabetes management if necessary.

Identifying Cushing’s Syndrome

Prolonged corticosteroid use can lead to Cushing’s syndrome. Look out for:

• Weight gain in the face, neck, and trunk
• Round, “moon-like” face
• Purple stretch marks
• Thinning skin and easy bruising
• Muscle weakness

If you notice these changes, discuss them with your doctor. They may need to adjust your prednisone dosage or consider alternative treatments.

The Impact of Prednisone on Mental Health

Long-term prednisone use can significantly affect mood and mental health. Patients may experience:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• In rare cases, psychosis or mania

How can patients manage these mental health effects? Consider these strategies:

1. Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about mood changes
2. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or yoga
3. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
4. Consider professional counseling or therapy

It’s crucial to report any significant mood changes or mental health concerns to your doctor promptly. They may adjust your treatment plan or refer you to a mental health specialist if needed.

Bone Health and Prednisone: Long-Term Concerns

One of the most significant long-term side effects of prednisone use is its impact on bone health. Prolonged use can lead to:

• Osteoporosis
• Increased risk of fractures
• Reduced bone density

How can patients protect their bone health while on long-term prednisone therapy? Consider these preventive measures:

1. Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements
2. Engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones
3. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
4. Discuss bone density monitoring with your healthcare provider
5. Consider medications to prevent or treat osteoporosis if recommended by your doctor

Regular bone density scans may be necessary to monitor the effects of prednisone on your skeletal system. Early intervention can help prevent or minimize bone loss and reduce fracture risk.

Tapering Off Prednisone: Importance and Precautions

Abruptly stopping long-term prednisone use can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. Why is tapering off prednisone crucial? It allows the body’s natural cortisol production to recover gradually.

The tapering process involves slowly reducing the prednisone dose over time. The duration and specifics of tapering depend on various factors, including:

• Length of time on prednisone
• Dosage
• Individual patient factors
• Underlying condition being treated

What symptoms might occur during prednisone tapering? Patients may experience:

• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Joint pain
• Mood changes
• Nausea

How can patients ensure a safe tapering process? Follow these guidelines:

1. Never stop prednisone suddenly without medical supervision
2. Adhere strictly to your doctor’s tapering schedule
3. Report any unusual symptoms during the tapering process
4. Be patient, as tapering can take weeks or even months
5. Continue regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider throughout the process

In some cases, temporary dose increases may be necessary during periods of stress or illness. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your prednisone regimen.

Alternative Treatments and Steroid-Sparing Strategies

Given the potential side effects of long-term prednisone use, healthcare providers often explore alternative treatments or steroid-sparing strategies. These approaches aim to minimize prednisone exposure while effectively managing the underlying condition.

What are some alternatives to long-term prednisone use? Options may include:

• Other immunosuppressant medications
• Biologic therapies
• Topical treatments (for certain conditions)
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
• Combination therapies to reduce overall steroid dose

How do doctors determine the best alternative treatment? Factors considered include:

1. The specific condition being treated
2. Individual patient characteristics and medical history
3. Potential side effects of alternative medications
4. Treatment efficacy and response
5. Patient preferences and quality of life considerations

It’s important to note that transitioning from prednisone to alternative treatments requires careful planning and monitoring. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure a smooth and safe transition.

Long-Term Prednisone Use in Special Populations

Certain groups may be at higher risk for complications from long-term prednisone use. These special populations include:

• Elderly patients
• Children and adolescents
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women
• Patients with comorbidities such as diabetes or hypertension

How do healthcare providers manage prednisone use in these populations? Strategies may include:

1. More frequent monitoring for side effects
2. Lower starting doses and slower tapering schedules
3. Additional preventive measures (e.g., more aggressive bone health interventions in the elderly)
4. Careful consideration of risks versus benefits
5. Exploration of alternative treatments when possible

For pregnant and breastfeeding women, the potential risks to the fetus or infant must be weighed against the mother’s need for treatment. In some cases, alternative medications with better safety profiles during pregnancy and lactation may be recommended.

In children and adolescents, long-term prednisone use can affect growth and development. Healthcare providers closely monitor growth patterns and may adjust treatment strategies to minimize these impacts.

Monitoring and Follow-Up for Long-Term Prednisone Users

Regular monitoring is crucial for patients on long-term prednisone therapy. This ongoing surveillance helps detect and manage side effects early, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

What should a comprehensive monitoring plan include? Key components are:

• Regular blood tests to check glucose levels, electrolytes, and liver function
• Blood pressure measurements
• Bone density scans
• Eye examinations to check for cataracts and glaucoma
• Weight and body composition assessments
• Mental health evaluations

How often should patients on long-term prednisone have follow-up appointments? The frequency of check-ups depends on various factors, including:

1. Prednisone dose
2. Duration of treatment
3. Presence of side effects
4. Individual patient risk factors
5. Underlying condition being treated

Typically, patients may need to see their healthcare provider every 3-6 months, or more frequently if issues arise. These appointments provide opportunities to assess treatment efficacy, adjust doses if necessary, and address any concerns or side effects.

Patients should also be educated about the signs and symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention, such as severe infections or adrenal crisis. This knowledge empowers patients to seek timely care when needed, potentially preventing serious complications.

Side effects of prednisolone tablets and liquid

The higher the dose of prednisolone that you take and the longer you take it for, the greater the chance of side effects. You’re less likely to get side effects if you take a relatively low dose of prednisolone daily.

If you have been taking prednisolone for more than a few weeks, check with your doctor before stopping it suddenly to reduce your chances of withdrawal side effects.

Some side effects, such as stomach upset or mood changes, can happen straight away. Others, such as getting a rounder face, happen after weeks or months.

Common side effects

These common side effects of prednisolone happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Weight gain

If you have to take prednisolone for more than a few weeks, it’s likely that you’ll put on weight. Prednisolone can make you hungrier and also can make you retain more water in your body.

Try to eat well without increasing your portion sizes. Regular exercise will also help to keep your weight stable.

Once you stop taking prednisolone, your appetite and the way your body retains water should return to normal.

Indigestion

Take prednisolone with food to reduce the chances of stomach problems. It may also help if you avoid rich or spicy food while you’re taking this medicine.

If symptoms carry on, ask your doctor if you may benefit from taking an additional medicine to protect your stomach.

Problems sleeping (insomnia)

Take prednisolone in the morning so the levels are the lowest at bedtime.

Feeling restless

If you’re feeling restless when you’re trying to sleep, take prednisolone in the morning so the levels are the lowest at bedtime.

Sweating a lot

Try wearing loose clothing and use a strong anti-perspirant. If this does not help, talk to your doctor as you may be able to try a different medicine.

Mild mood changes

Prednisolone can affect your mood in different ways. Talk to your doctor if you are finding it hard to cope.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and any of these side effects bother you or last more than a few days.

Serious side effects

You are more likely to have a serious side effect if you take a higher dose of prednisolone or if you have been taking it for more than a few weeks.

Call a doctor or call 111 straight away if you get:

• a high temperature, chills, a very sore throat, ear or sinus pain, a cough, more saliva or a change in colour of saliva (yellowish and possibly with streaks of blood), pain when you pee, mouth sores or a wound that will not heal – these can be signs of an infection
• sleepy or confused, feeling very thirsty or hungry, peeing more often, flushing, breathing quickly or breath that smells like fruit – these can be signs of high blood sugar
• weight gain in your upper back or belly, “moon face” (a puffy, rounded face), very bad headaches and slow wound healing – these can be signs of Cushing’s syndrome
• a very upset stomach or you’re being sick (vomiting), very bad dizziness or passing out, muscle weakness, feeling very tired, mood changes, loss of appetite and weight loss – these can be signs of adrenal gland problems
• muscle pain or weakness, muscle cramps, or changes in your heart rate – these can be signs of low potassium levels
• severe stomach pain, severe back pain, severe upset stomach or you’re being sick – these can be signs of pancreas problems
• breathlessness
• swelling in your arms or legs
• changes in your eyesight
• any bruising or bleeding that is not normal
• red or black poo

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

Mood changes

You may notice mood changes and mental health problems while taking prednisolone.

Talk to your doctor or contact 111 if you have any mood changes including:

• feeling depressed
• feeling high, or moods that go up and down
• feeling anxious, having problems sleeping, difficulty in thinking, or being confused and losing your memory
• feeling, seeing or hearing things that do not exist (hallucinations)
• having strange and frightening thoughts, changing how you act, or having feelings of being alone

The higher the dose, the more intense the mood changes can be.

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to prednisolone.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Long-term side effects

Taking prednisolone for a long time can lead to side effects such as:

• thinner bones (osteoporosis)
• poorly controlled diabetes
• eyesight problems
• high blood pressure (hypertension)

Children and teenagers

Taking prednisolone at higher doses for a long time can slow down the normal growth of children and teenagers.

Your child’s doctor will monitor their height and weight carefully for as long as they’re taking this medicine. This will help them spot any slowing down of your child’s growth and change their treatment if needed.

Even if your child’s growth slows down, it does not seem to have much effect on their eventual adult height.

Talk to your doctor if you’re worried. They’ll be able to explain the benefits and risks of giving your child prednisolone.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of prednisolone. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 24 February 2022

Next review due: 24 February 2025

What are the side effects of low dose prednisone?

Ask the Expert, Treatment — Sep 21, 2020

Ask the Expert: What are the side effects of taking a low dose prednisone every day? It’s the only thing that helps with my pain, but I hear it’s not a long-term solution?

Prednisone belongs to the class of medications known as corticosteroids (or anti-inflammatory agents). These medications provide relief of inflammation and are used to treat a variety of medical conditions including pain, asthma, Sjögren’s and rheumatoid arthritis. As with all medications, corticosteroids have some adverse side effects related to the dose and the duration in which the medication is taken. Side effects associated with low dose (7.5 mg/day or less) daily prednisone are less severe than those seen with higher doses (greater than 30mg/day) and can usually be managed with precautions. Common side effects of daily low dose prednisone include elevated blood pressure, swelling, changes in blood sugar, increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, osteoporosis (thinning of bones), irregular menstrual periods, and mood changes. Serious side effects associated with higher doses and long-term use (greater than 1 month) are impaired wound healing, decreased growth (in children), decreased muscle production, fat deposits, stomach ulcers or bleeding, vision problems, higher risk for infection, and in rare cases life-threatening allergic reactions.

Although the list of side effects may make you wonder whether you should take this medication or not, please be reassured that many people take daily low dose prednisone with minor or no side effects. The following self-care tips may help minimize some of the side effects associated with prednisone. For those experiencing swelling and/or elevated blood pressure, a healthy low sodium diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help to keep your blood pressure under control while taking daily low dose prednisone. If you have diabetes, it is important to monitor your blood sugar and report any severe fluctuations in blood sugar to your provider. It is recommended that prednisone be taken with food or milk to minimize stomach upset and reduce the chance of stomach ulceration. Schedule yearly eye exams and report any new changes in vision to your eye doctor. Long term corticosteroid therapy may cause thinning of bones (osteoporosis) which increases the risk of bone fracture. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about vitamin D and calcium supplementation to help protect your bones. Since long term prednisone use can increase your risk for infection, ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your vaccination history and be sure to stay up to date on all of your recommended vaccines. Alert your family members and friends about the possibility of mood changes associated with this medication, so they can help detect any unusual changes in your behavior. Report any changes in mood or behavior to your doctor.

Although experiencing side effects is unpleasant, it is crucial to avoid sudden discontinuation of this medication. Never stop or decrease your dose unless instructed by your doctor. Your doctor can instruct you on how to slowly decrease your dose if you need to stop taking this medication for any reason.

By Ajay John, Pharmacy Intern and Kayli Smith, Pharm.D

This article was first printed in  the Foundation’s patient newsletter for members. Click here to learn more about becoming a member. 

Help Support the Sjögren’s Foundation

Help support the Sjögren’s Foundation by donating today! Not only will your donation help fund critical research, educational opportunities and support the Foundation’s mission to create ‘a community where patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers come together to conquer the complexities of Sjögren’s’ but it is also 100% tax deductible.

Click Here to Donate

Comments

Prednisolone – what you need to know about taking this drug

Most often in non-medical circles it is called a steroid or glucocorticoid, many people think that this is a very dangerous drug and are very reluctant to agree to treatment with this drug.

But for certain diseases, it is prednisolone that is considered an obligatory and necessary drug of first choice in the treatment of a disease (for example, nephrotic syndrome, which you can read about here).

We are not talking about the drug itself and for what diseases it should be prescribed, but our information block about what doctors usually forget when they prescribe prednisolone. Usually, children come for a consultation while taking prednisolone in combination with asparkam. Believe me, hypokalemia (decrease in the level of potassium in the blood), in connection with which asparks are prescribed, is not the most common complication when prescribing prednisolone.

In our practice, almost 90% of patients receiving this drug are diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome.

Prednisolone is prescribed for a long period of time (the full course of therapy before the drug is discontinued may last 6-12 months), additional drugs must be prescribed to prevent the side effects of prednisolone. They are:

1. In order to protect the mucosa of the upper gastrointestinal tract (esophagus, stomach, duodenum), prednisolone may cause indigestion, nausea, vomiting and more serious complications such as steroid ulcers. However, all this can be avoided by taking the so-called – gastroprotective drugs (i.e. Protection of the stomach in literal translation). These are antacids (eg Maalox, phosphalugel, etc.), H+ pump blockers (eg Omeprazole), drugs that improve the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. All doses of drugs are selected individually according to age and body weight.
2. Bone protection. Long-term use of steroids can cause a decrease in bone mass, so-called steroid osteoporosis (bone thinning) can develop, which ultimately leads to bone fractures. But this condition can also be prevented, it is necessary to take calcium and vitamin D preparations . The dose of drugs is also selected individually.

Other things to watch out for:

1. Mandatory blood pressure monitoring
2. Observation of an ophthalmologist: control of vision, the state of intraocular pressure and the lens of the eye.
3. When taking prednisolone for a very long time, check blood glucose levels.
4. State of mental health. Children very often become capricious, sometimes even aggressive. This condition resolves on its own after discontinuation of the drug.
5. Watch your weight and diet. Against the background of taking prednisolone, the appetite increases very much. However, you, as a parent, can control the nutrition of your child, it is necessary to limit the intake of easily digestible carbohydrates.
6. In order to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of gastroprotective therapy, the mucous membrane of the upper gastrointestinal tract is assessed by – EGDS (gastroscopy).

This information has been prepared by an employee of the department (pediatrician) for informational purposes only. It is necessary to consult with your doctor.

If you have any questions about this topic or have suggestions, we are happy to answer questions and accept your suggestions.

What helps, analogues, dosage, side effects

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. It is necessary to consult a specialist. Allergies in joints and muscles of the joint -bearing asthma -powder of joint -tank -tag -tanks from allergies

, author of Article

Podoynitsyna Alena Andreevna,

Diploma of pharmaceutical education: 105924 3510722 reg. number 31917

All authors

Contents of the article

• Prednisolone: ​​from what
• Prednisolone for allergies
• Prednisolone for covid
• Prednisolone: ​​dosage
• Consequences treatment with Prednisolone
• Prednisolone: ​​side effects
• Prednisolone and alcohol
• Prednisolone: analogues
• Ask an expert on the topic of the article

Prednisolone has been successfully used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune diseases since 1955 years old. This is a proven drug. Prednisolone has thousands of clinical studies in its “baggage”, is included in the list of vital and essential drugs in Russia and WHO.

We tell you when Prednisolone helps, what side effects it has and how to use the drug correctly.

All products Prednisolone

4 reviews

Prednisolone: ​​what

Prednisolone is a synthetic hormone glucocorticoid. In the human body, glucocorticoids are produced by the adrenal glands. They regulate carbohydrate, protein and mineral metabolism.

Prednisolone has the following actions:

• anti-inflammatory
• decongestant
• antiallergic
• anti-shock
• immunosuppressive

The drug has a wide range of indications, it is used for:

• shock states
• allergic diseases, including anaphylactic shock
• cerebral edema
• bronchial asthma
• systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis
• inflammatory diseases of the joints
• acute adrenal insufficiency
• thyrotoxic crisis, thyroiditis
• hepatitis and hepatic coma
• diseases of the skin and eyes
• diseases of the hematopoietic organs
• lung diseases (including tuberculosis and cancer)
• in organ transplantation

Hormone treatment seriously affects the organs and systems of the human body. There are a lot of contraindications for Prednisolone, a complete list is indicated in the instructions for the drug and in the Register of Medicines of Russia (RLS). The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

For life-saving use, the only contraindication is hypersensitivity to prednisolone or the components of the drug.

You may be interested in: Bronchial asthma clinical guidelines for treatment and prevention

Prednisolone for allergies

The antiallergic effect of Prednisolone is due to the fact that the drug changes the body’s immune response to allergens. The hormone inhibits the synthesis of biologically active substances – allergy mediators. Reduces the number of cells responsible for immunity. Inhibits the formation of antibodies.

In case of anaphylactic shock and bronchial status, prednisolone is administered intravenously, in other cases, for allergies, the doctor prescribes intramuscular injections or tablets.

Prednisolone for covid

Glucocorticoids, including Prednisolone, are indicated for the complicated course of coronavirus infection. They are prescribed when pneumonia develops with respiratory failure.

World Health Organization (WHO) Interim Guidelines published based on clinical trial data:

• Recommendation #1: WHO strongly recommends oral or intramuscular corticosteroids (dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, or prednisolone) for the treatment of patients with severe and critical COVID-19.
• Recommendation #2: WHO does not recommend the use of corticosteroids in the treatment of patients with non-severe COVID-19 unless the patient is already taking the drug for another condition.

Prednisolone: ​​dosage

The dose of Prednisolone and the duration of therapy is determined by the doctor individually, depending on the indications and the severity of the disease.

At the beginning of the course, the drug is prescribed in a higher dose. When a therapeutic effect is achieved, it is reduced to maintenance.

The daily dose is best taken once in the morning. This corresponds to the biological rhythm of the adrenal glands. The high dose can be divided into 2-4 doses, and the largest dose taken between 6 and 8 am.

Withdrawal of the drug is carried out gradually. A smooth dose reduction is due to the “withdrawal” syndrome. When treated with Prednisolone, the adrenal glands stop producing their own glucocorticoids. With a sharp cessation of the intake of Prednisolone, the body remains without hormones.

A serious condition occurs with a risk to life. It is necessary to gradually reduce the intake of the hormone from the outside in order to restore the function of the adrenal glands. The doctor should draw up a scheme on how to reduce the dose of Prednisolone. For each case, it is individual and depends on the duration of treatment and the dose that the patient took during treatment.

If Prednisolone is used urgently and not more than 3 days, then gradual withdrawal is not required

Effects of treatment with Prednisolone

Hormone treatment should be taken very seriously. Long-term therapy with large doses of Prednisolone is accompanied by numerous adverse reactions.

One of the most noticeable is weight gain. It is better from the first days of therapy to choose a diet with a lot of vegetables, exclude sugar, limit carbohydrates, fatty and fried foods. Arrange fasting days, drink plenty of water and give yourself physical activity.

Still needed:

• take medicines to protect the digestive tract, heart and bones
• monitor blood pressure
• see an ophthalmologist
• monitor glucose levels
• stop taking the drug gradually under the supervision of the attending physician

Prednisolone: ​​side effects

The frequency and severity of side effects depends on the duration of treatment, the level of doses taken and compliance with the rules for taking the drug. We indicate the most severe negative effects:

• development of diabetes
• adrenal suppression
• bleeding and gastrointestinal ulcers
• increased blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias up to cardiac arrest, heart failure
• thrombosis
• osteoporosis
• mental disorders
• development and exacerbation of infections

Antacids and potassium preparations are prescribed to reduce side effects.

Prednisolone and alcohol

Do not drink alcohol during treatment with Prednisolone. Alcohol increases the risk of erosions, ulcers and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

Prednisolone analogues

Hormone therapy is a complex and responsible process. Only the attending physician can choose an analogue to replace Prednisolone. For information, we indicate drugs that also belong to glucocorticoids:

• Dexazon
• Dexamethasone
• Kenalog
• Cortef
• Medrol
• Methylprednisolone
• Metipred
• Polcortolone
• Triamcinolone

All products Metipred

25 reviews

All products Medrol

20 reviews

All products Kenalog

6 reviews

All products Dexamethasone

14 reviews

Let’s summarize the information.

Prednisolone is a powerful analog of natural glucocorticoids. It suppresses the immune system and has an anti-inflammatory effect.