Often used for:
Inflammation, allergies, leukemia, lymphoma, graft-versus-host disease prevention
What is prednisone?
Prednisone and its active form prednisolone are corticosteroids used to reduce inflammation and manage conditions such as allergies, asthma, adrenal insufficiency, GVHD, and certain cancers. Doses may change as children grow. Blood and urine tests monitor glucose and electrolytes.
Possible side effects (long-term)
- Decreased muscle mass and weakness
- Delayed wound healing
- Growth problems
- Thin, fragile skin
- Osteoporosis
- Avascular necrosis
- Cataracts
Prednisone at home
- Give with food or milk.
- Administer at the same time each day, typically in the morning if once daily.
- Swallow delayed-release tablets whole.
- Measure liquids with the provided device.
- Follow missed-dose guidance from the care team.
- Store at room temperature and do not use past the expiration date.
Possible side effects (short-term)
- Heartburn
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Water retention and increased blood pressure
- Acne or increased hair growth
- High blood sugar
- Low potassium
- Stomach upset, headache, dizziness
- Mood or personality changes
- Sleep problems
- Fatigue or weakness
- Increased sweating
- Eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma)
- Menstrual changes
- High white blood cell count
- Increased infection risk
- Not all patients experience these effects. Report all symptoms.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions with the doctor or pharmacist.
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Monitor for hidden infections because fever may be masked.
- Follow dietary recommendations such as low sodium, low sugar, and high protein.
- Potassium supplements or high-potassium foods may be needed.
- Maintain regular physical exams and eye checks.
- Steroids may affect fertility and pregnancy; report sexual activity, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
- Prednisone interacts with many medicines including insulin, warfarin, aspirin, ibuprofen, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ketoconazole, and rifampin.
