Taking Prednisone safely
As with any other prescription drug, it is important to follow the dosage instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist. You should not second-guess the professional and change the dose as you think fit. Your dose will be calculated given your age and body weight, and the condition to be treated. It will vary with the size of tablet, and as to the number of tablets to be taken and the length of time between each dose. Because it quite often causes an upset stomach, it is better to take Prednisone with food. If you find the upset or pain is lasting an uncomfortably long time, perhaps with some heartburn, you should ask your doctor for guidance. However, one of the factors may be the presence of alcohol in your diet. It is not advisable to drink any alcohol while taking this drug. If you do, you are more likely to experience stomach upsets.
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Because taking too much of this drug is more likely to cause adverse side effects, you should take care if you forget to take a dose. Never double up when the next time falls due. Try to even out the schedule until you get back on track. You should be aiming to keep a steady concentration in your body.
You should find a cool, dry place for storage out of direct sunlight. If these tablets get damp, say from steam in a bathroom, they can start to break down. Keep them out of the reach of children and, if they pass their expiry date, dispose of them safely.
Always tell your doctor if you are taking any over-the-counter medications or other health or diet supplements. You will also need guidance if you are taking other drugs. In particular, note that:
- aspirin may interact and cause unwanted side effects;
- anticoagulants such as warfarin are more likely to cause bleeding unless their doses are reduced;
- barbiturates such as phenobarbital can reduce the effectiveness of Prednisone;
- because of the effects on the immune system, it is dangerous to take Prednisone if you have or contract a fungal infection. Never self-medicate with one of the antifungals such as ketoconazole; or
- macrolide antibiotics such as troleandomycin may cause confusion, weakness, joint pain, muscle aches, or low blood sugar.
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