Prednisone: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that’s often prescribed to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. Whether you’re dealing with allergies, arthritis, asthma, or even some autoimmune disorders, prednisone can help calm down your body’s overactive responses.

It works by mimicking hormones your body naturally produces in the adrenal glands. By stepping in like these hormones, prednisone slows down inflammation and helps ease symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain.

Common Uses and Dosage Tips

Doctors often prescribe prednisone for conditions like severe allergic reactions, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and flare-ups of chronic illnesses. Doses can vary a lot — some people take it for just a few days, while others might be on it longer under close supervision.

If you’ve been given prednisone, it’s key to follow your dosage instructions carefully. Stopping suddenly or changing your dose without talking to your doctor can be risky since your body needs time to adjust. Also, taking prednisone with food can minimize stomach upset, which is a common side effect.

What to Watch Out For: Side Effects and Safety

Prednisone can cause side effects like increased appetite, mood swings, or trouble sleeping. Long-term use may increase risks like bone thinning, weight gain, or high blood pressure. That’s why doctors try to prescribe the smallest effective dose for the shortest time needed.

It’s important to keep your healthcare provider in the loop about any other medications or supplements you’re taking. Prednisone can interact with other drugs, and your doctor can help avoid problems.

Keep an eye on any new symptoms or unusual changes in your body while on prednisone, and report these to your doctor. With the right care and attention, prednisone can be a powerful tool to help you get through tough health challenges.