What is a Prednisone?

When you look at the more technical descriptions of Prednisone, you will see it described as a glucocorticoid. Scientists love to give complicated names to reasonably straightforward ideas. The name was coined because the effects were first noticed in the way the body’s metabolism produces glucose. In this context, all it means is that this drug replaces the hormones normally produced by the adrenal cortex. The natural version of this hormone is called cortisone and it helps to regulate the levels of blood pressure and glucose (blood sugar) in your body. The synthetic form is called hydrocortisone. It is therefore of fundamental importance to the way in which the cardiovascular and metabolic systems work. If your body does not have enough, Prednisone tops up the level by attaching itself to the same receptors in your body expecting natural cortisone.

The amount of the dose is fixed depending on the patient and what is wrong. First, there is a calculation based on the age and body weight of the patient. Then, if the main purpose is only to replace the missing cortisone, there is a difference between a replacement dose and a maintenance dose. But, more often, the purpose of the treatment will be to suppress inflammation, to relieve allergic reactions, or to modify the immune system in some way, e.g. following transplant surgery to prevent or reduce the risk of organ rejection.

There is, however, a problem in the longer-term uses of high doses. Over time, the use of the drug replaces the natural production function of the adrenal glands. When the course of treatment ends, it can take some time for the gland to begin working again to its normal capacity. During this time, you may be vulnerable to infections. To reduce the risks, doctors will perform what is called a titration where the drug is slowly introduced into your system, maintained for the required time at peak levels, and then very slowly reduced to minimize withdrawal symptoms.