For many patients, a prescription of prednisone recommended by a doctor may seem like any ordinary prescription. Seeming necessary, many patients never think twice or question their doctor regarding the side effects or harm that its use could cause and trust that the medication will improve their health quality. Although in many treatment plans prednisone can be very useful, even vital in treatment, it can also be devastating to one’s health. Many patients have never been educated on the risks involved in prednisone and suffer undesirable side effects that the use of prednisone can produce.
The Effects
A vast number of side effects have been reported, including:
- a decrease in the body’s immune system making one more likely to become ill
- vision problems including the development of glaucoma and cataracts
- weight gain and fluid retention
- high blood sugar in diabetic patients
- depression and increased anxiety
- seizures
- bloody, tar like stools
- low potassium levels
- high blood pressure
- problems with sleeping
- acne
- fragile skin that bruises easily
- headaches
- changes in the fatty tissue of the body
- osteoporosis due to the decreasing of bone formation and calcium absorption
- mood swings
The Educated Patient
It is important for the patient to make an effort to prevent any side effects that may occur. All preventive measures should only be started with the advice of a primary care physician and may be discussed at the time the prescription is provided. These preventative measures might include:
- Communicating with friends and family about the possibility of mood swings and depression to prevent strain on relationships.
- Taking a vitamin with vitamin D and calcium to contribute to healthier bones during the course of the dosage.
- Reducing daily salt intake to prevent fluid retention.
- Increasing activity to prevent weight gain.
- Taking pills with milk to prevent an upset stomach.
- Wearing a medical bracelet in case of an emergency stating prednisone use.
- Avoiding being around people that are ill or who have an infection.
- Eating more potassium rich foods such as apricots, dried fruit and bananas.
- Discussing a prescription of prednisone in small doses, or doses taken only every other day versus every day.
Further Education and Understanding
It is important that a patient understands the risks and benefits involved when beginning a prednisone treatment plan. The most important thing to remember is to ask questions. Any unanswered questions can be addressed to a primary care doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Never stop taking a prescribed dose of Prednisone without the consent of a doctor to avoid medication withdrawal. In severe cases where difficulty breathing, hives or swelling of the face and throat occur, or if overdose is suspected, call Emergency Medical Services.
Additional Reading and References
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