Prednisolone is a type of steroid, and steroids work by reducing inflammation in the body, suppressing the immune system, and relieve symptoms. It can reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or an acute exacerbation of asthma.
Some people experience a love-hate relationship with prednisolone, because of the side effects that come with using it. So, why is this? Prednisolone is a synthetic version of cortisol, a hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands. Since it produces an immune suppressive effect, it increases the patient’s risk of infection, so patient’s have to be mindful. And when the patient is at a vulnerable state, it creates an avenue for various health issues. Some of which are, mood changes, weight gain, and edema.
The risk factors will be further explained in this article, so stay tuned.
Corticosteroids offer health benefits, and at a quicker rate. Some people have shared their stories on how they felt relief from using Prednisolone, after 2 days using it, even hours.
Medical Uses Of Prednisolone
1 . Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2 . Severe allergies
3 . Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions.
4 . Skin conditions (eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis)
5 . Inflammatory bowel disease
6 . Collagen diseases, for example lupus
7 . Blood or bone marrow disorders
Benefits and effectiveness
It works simply by decreasing inflammation
It relieves symptoms
Improves your quality of life
It is quite effective in acute and chronic conditions
Potential side effects of Prednisolone
Corticosteroids may increase your weight due to 3 reasons which are, increased appetite, fat redistribution and water and sodium retention. Because the more sodium is retained in your body, the more potassium is lost.
Common side effects
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Sweating a lot
- Increased appetite
- Sleep disorders, especially when you take it in the evening
- Feeling restless
- Increased blood pressure
- Electrolyte imbalance (potassium, sodium)
- Acne
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Menstrual period changes
These side effects are considered short-term side effects, and they last for a few days. However, if they’re bothersome or you find it difficult to cope, and last longer than a few days, speak to a doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Serious side effects of using Prednisolone (or long-term side effects)
A person is more likely to have serious side effects if they’ve been taking a higher dose of Prednisolone. Or if they’ve been taking it for more than a few days, hence the term “long-term” effects. Call a doctor or emergency line immediately if you experience the following:
- Osteoporosis (bone thinning)
- Cataracts
- Breathlessness
- Swelling in your arms or legs
- Severe stomach pain, severe back pain
- Excessive peeing
- Upset stomach, vomiting
- Confusion
- Suicidal Ideation
- Facial swelling (moon face)
- Easy bruising
- Hypertension or cardiovascular disease
- Red or black poo
- Diabetes or hyperglycemia
- Cushing’s syndrome
- Mental health issues like depression
- Seizures or neurological problems
- Signs of an infection such a very sore throat, sinus pain, and painful urination
Children can also face similar side effects in adults, when taking the medication. However, corticosteroids can suppress growth in children who take the drug. Therefore, if your child is taking Prednisolone, especially on a long-term basis, they may not grow as tall.
So, because of this situation, your doctor may keep an eye on your child’s growth, while they’re undergoing treatment.
Side effects of Prednisolone in Males and Females
An adult male or female can experience similar side effects.
Common side effects (Both guys and ladies)
1 . Weight gain
2 . Mood changes ( anxiety, and depression)
3 . Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
4 . Dizziness
5 . Headaches
6 . High blood pressure
7 . Increased blood sugar levels
8 . Increased appetite
9 . Digestive issues (nausea, vomiting and diarrhea)
10 . Edema
11 . Hypertension
12 . Addisonian crisis, if Prednisolone is suddenly stopped
13 . Hirsutism
14 . Skin changes (acne, thinning of the skin)
15 . Confusion
16 . Suicidal thoughts
17 . Reduction in immune response to vaccine
18 . Increased risk of infection
But, there are some possible side effects specific to men such as:
- ED (erectile dysfunction)
- Testosterone suppression
- Prostate issues (enlargement inflammation)
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Decreased sexual drive
- Increased risk of prostate cancer
Side effects specific to women
A woman may experience the following side effects of using Prednisolone:
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Menstrual changes like irregular periods, and it can mess with your hormonal system
- Breast tenderness
- Hair loss
- Acne
- Higher risk of osteoporosis
- Mood swings, depression
- Increased risk of cervical cancer
If you’re a breastfeeding mom, or have certain health conditions, do not take Prednisolone. It is best to speak to with a doctor about what to do, or if there are other alternatives.
Dosage and administration
Prednisolone can be prescribed in different ways.
- Oral tablets or liquid
- Injectable forms
- Dosage schedule depending on the health condition at hand and how intense it is.
Managing side affects of Prednisolone
Moon face
Long-term use of steroid drugs like Prednisolone can cause facial swelling known as moon face. Although, it is not dangerous, “moon face” can take an emotional toll on a person. However, swelling will decrease with tapering of medication. Your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage or prescribe it for the shortest amount of time possible to treat your condition.
In addition, your doctor may suggest treatment options, such as eating less salt to reduce the puffiness of your face. Or they may recommend another option for your condition.
Lifestyle changes
To deal with side effects a little better, eat a diet low in sodium, and sugar, but high in calcium. Exercise no matter how short, a ten minute workout is a great way to start. But remember to take things easy and listen to your body, if you are feeling tired, rest, or meditate.
Practice deep breathing exercises, watch your favorite TV shows, or movies. Hang out with friends and family, as they can offer love and support, with a touch of distraction from the side effects. Also, try to manage your stress levels, and most importantly don’t focus on the negative side of things. You will get through it.
Alternative treatments
Your doctor can recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) instead.
Precautions on taking Prednisolone
Corticosteroids should be prescribed with caution, in patients with active infections. Be sure to talk with your doctor if you have an active infection, because prednisone can weaken your immune system. So, if you have an untreated infection, taking it will only make things worse. Therefore, inform your doctor about it, as your doctor will likely treat your infection, before prescribing Prednisolone.
Other health conditions you must reveal to your doctor before undergoing steroid treatment:
- Heart disease
- Kidney problems
- Eye problems
- Diabetes
- Stomach issues like ulcer
- Mood conditions like depression
- Have high blood pressure
- Have liver problems
- Epilepsy
- Have an under-active thyroid
- Dealing with thinning bones
Sometimes it may be good, sometimes may be bad.
Though Prednisolone comes with possible complications, some people have testified to never experiencing any side effects. Unfair, but true. Instead, they explain how it has positively impacted their lives, and health. True, corticosteroids have been used in many cases, and they do perform well. But, it might leave a bad taste in people’s mouths, which is why patients must be careful about using corticosteroids. It is best to know what to expect, and how best you can prepare for it.
