Prednisone (By Mouth)

Prednisone (PRED-ni-sone)

Treats asthma, serious skin problems, arthritis, and allergic reactions. Belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.

Brand Name(s):

Deltasone, Sterapred, Prednicot, Sterapred DS, Prednisone Intensol
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to prednisone or related drugs such as hydrocortisone, betamethasone, dexamethasone, or triamcinolone. Before you take prednisone, make sure your doctor knows if you have peptic ulcers, tuberculosis (TB), or fungal infections.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Measure your oral liquid medicine with a clearly marked measuring spoon.
• If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk.

If a dose is missed:

• Prednisone can be given on many different schedules.
• If you miss a dose, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the best time to take the missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Unless approved by your doctor, do not drink alcohol (beer, wine, or liquor).
• Check with your doctor before you receive any immunizations or vaccinations.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Talk with your doctor before taking prednisone if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, kidney disease, liver disease, an eye infection caused by herpes, or any other infections.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without first talking with your doctor. You may need to take smaller and smaller doses before completely stopping this medicine.
• Avoid being around people with viral infections such as measles or chickenpox. If you are exposed to these infections, check with your doctor as soon as possible.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Skin rash
• Blurred vision
• Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Severe stomach pain
• Bloody vomit or blood in stools
• Increased thirst or urination

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Increased appetite
• Nervousness
• Indigestion, nausea, or vomiting
• Trouble sleeping
• Fullness or roundness of face
• Skin infections
• Confusion, depression, or mood changes
• Seeing or hearing unusual things

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.