What are the side effects?

Almost all drugs are capable of having an adverse effect — not everyone has the same metabolism and reacts in the same way. But the use of Prednisone is slightly different. There are a number of well-documented effects that have to be managed if patient outcomes are to be beneficial. Over the short-term, this drug is almost completely free from problems unless you have a pre-existing condition affected by steroids. For example, your blood glucose level will rise quite quickly which is destabilising if you have diabetes mellitus. But once you move into longer term use, the incidence of side effects is difficult to avoid. Indeed, for some purposes, these side effects are desirable. For example, Prednisone is used to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs. The effect of suppressing the immune system’s habit of rejecting foreign bodies is desirable in this context. But the general suppression of the immune system is not beneficial because you are more vulnerable to infections. Worse, if you do contract an infection, it will be more difficult to treat. Thus, you have to live your life more cautiously and avoid contact with other people who are sick. If you do detect any possible sign of sickness such as a higher temperature, sore throat, coughing and sneezing, you should see a doctor.

The side effects to watch out for include:

changes in the levels of fluids and electrolytes retained in your body. An excess of salt increases blood pressure and encourages fluid retention. Once fluid levels rise, your face and body may swell. Do not self-medicate by taking a diuretic. They lose their effectiveness and do not reduce the level of fluid retained. There is also a problem in the loss of potassium and calcium, the latter risking the development of osteoporosis and other bone and muscular-skeletal problems;
appetite increases and body weight rises;
there are also problems in the loss of muscle mass and weakness;
the risk of congestive heart failure among patients who have already had a stroke or heart attack, and are affected by the sudden increase in blood pressure;
the risk of new ulcers or the perforation of existing ulcers in the esophagus, stomach and intestines;
changes to the skin resulting in more fragile skin, increased bruising, the slowed healing of wounds, etc. (it may also affect the results of skin tests so always alert the doctor that you are taking a steroid);
the risk of headaches, dizziness, distorted vision and convulsions;
adrenal insufficiency at times of stress;
the slowing of growth in children and teenagers;
irregularities in the menstrual cycle;
the development of cataracts or glaucoma; and
restlessness, confusion, mood swings and depression in those with a history of emotional instability.