How long can you safely take Prednisone? 

How long can you safely take Prednisone? 

There is no specific time limit during which you can take Prednisone safely. The duration of your treatment depends on your health condition and the time taken by your body to heal (1,2). 

Some people may take Prednisone for just a week and that’s it. This is known as short-term corticosteroid treatment and it is quite common. 

However, some people may take it for years and years of their lives, like in the case of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). So it totally depends on your healthcare condition. 

Long-term use of Prednisone is not considered good as it can affect your immune system and your overall body physiology. 

However, your doctor will ask you to use it for a long time if your condition demands it and may prescribe you some supplements or other health aids to mitigate the side effects. 

Make sure you take Prednisone for as long as your doctor recommends and not more than that. If you’re concerned about any of the side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. The shelf life of Prednisone is around 2-3 years. Make sure you do not use the medication past its expiration date.

What are the side effects of long-term Prednisone use?

Long-term use of Prednisone can lead to various side effects, and these can differ from person to person. Some common side effects of prolonged Prednisone use may include (3,4):

  • Weakened immune system: Prednisone can suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. This can increase the risk of getting sick more often.
  • Weight gain: Long-term use of Prednisone may cause weight gain, especially around the abdomen and face, due to an increased appetite and fluid retention.
  • Osteoporosis: Prolonged Prednisone use can weaken bones, leading to a higher risk of fractures or osteoporosis, particularly in older adults.
  • High blood pressure: Prednisone can raise blood pressure, which may contribute to heart problems and other cardiovascular issues.
  • High blood sugar: Long-term use of Prednisone can elevate blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
  • Psychological side effects: Some people may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression while taking Prednisone for an extended period. it can also cause insomnia and tiredness.
  • Cataracts and glaucoma: Prolonged use of Prednisone can increase the risk of developing cataracts in the eyes and, in some cases, glaucoma.
  • Skin problems: Skin issues like acne, thinning of the skin, and bruising can occur with long-term Prednisone use.
  • Muscle weakness: Prednisone can lead to muscle weakness and wasting, making physical activities more challenging.
  • Stomach issues: Long-term use may irritate the stomach lining, causing ulcers or digestive problems.

It’s essential to work closely with your healthcare provider during long-term Prednisone use. They will monitor your health and adjust the dosage as needed to balance the benefits of the medication with the potential risks of side effects.

How to ensure the proper use of Prednisone?

To ensure the proper use of Prednisone, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, including the dosage and frequency (1,2). 

Never adjust the dosage or stop taking Prednisone without consulting your doctor, as abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential health risks.

Additionally, it’s essential to inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Prednisone. Avoid alcohol consumption while on Prednisone, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and ensure that Prednisone is working effectively and safely for your condition. Remember, open communication with your doctor is crucial in managing your treatment and overall health.

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References

1.-

National Health Service. How and when to take prednisolone tablets and liquid. [Internet]. London: National Health Service (NHS). Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/prednisolone/how-and-when-to-take-prednisolone-tablets-and-liquid/

2.-

Puckett Y, Gabbar A, Bokhari AA. Prednisone. 2023 Mar 27. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30521230. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534809

3.-

LABEL: PREDNISONE tablet. DailyMed [Internet]. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=a784f545-f209-46d4-9350-ae64fad9e07c&type=pdf

4.-

Rice JB, White AG, Scarpati LM, Wan G, Nelson WW. Long-term Systemic Corticosteroid Exposure: A Systematic Literature Review. Clin Ther. 2017 Nov;39(11):2216-2229. doi: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2017.09.011. Epub 2017 Oct 19. PMID: 29055500. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29055500/