What is prednisone and what is it for?

In some clinical pictures, it is necessary toreplace the steroids produced in our bodynaturally, allowing the control of a wide range of diseases and health disorders.

In the next article, we will talk about adrug with these properties, prednisone. We will mention its main uses and its possible side effects, in addition to the contraindications to take into account.

What is prednisone?

Prednisoneis a corticosteroid drug, which has in its composition an active ingredient called prednisone in concentrations of 30 mg. Its mechanism of action is theinhibition of the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, so they allow an immune response and cellular processes.

On the other hand, it is a medicine that has presentations in tablet, solution and suspension, where therecommended doses are depending on the treatmentindicated by a medical professional. They must be increased and also withdrawn, progressively.

Note: Due to the nature of this drug and its mechanism of action, a prescription is necessaryfor its acquisition.

What is prednisone for?

Prednisone is used to treat awide varietyof health disorders. We mention below its main uses:

1. Inflammation and allergic reactions

Thanks to the nature of prednisone, it acts at the cellular level decreasing the production of substances that causeinflammation or allergic responsein our body.

To highlight: Prednisone is usually indicated in severe cases of this type of reaction, allowing symptom control and risk reduction. (1)

2. Autoimmune, gastrointestinal and ocular diseases

Autoimmune diseases (lupus, leukemia, among others), are those that are characterized by being a disorder where our immune system attacks our body. 

You should know: The use of corticosteroids such as prednisone has shown effective control over this type of alterations, as well as in gastrointestinal and ocular diseases where there are symptoms such as burning, inflammation and infections . (two)

3. Liver, kidney and blood diseases

Liver, kidney and blood diseases of an autoimmune nature (such as thrombocytopenic purpura, autoimmune hepatitis, and others) lead to a mechanism of destruction and attack on cells .

Note: The use of prednisone and its mechanism of action allows the control of symptoms and a reduction of the responsible enzymatic activity . (3)

4. Adrenal insufficiency

This type of insufficiency gets its name thanks to the inability to produce and release adrenal hormones, which is why symptoms such as muscle pain and the need for salty foods appear.

To highlight: The use of prednisone as a corticosteroid medication leads to the production of adequate stimuli for the patient’s recovery in these cases. (4)

side effects of prednisone

Every medicine has stipulated possible side effects, which can developduring its use in treatments. We mention below those of prednisone:

• Headache and dizziness.
• Extreme swings in mood.
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
• Fluid retention and weight gain.
• Confusion and delusions in prolonged treatments.

Important: If there are side effects and these persist when stopping treatment, it is important to go to medical attention for information.

Prednisone Contraindications

Contraindications are factors that we must take into account when starting medical treatment to reduce the risk of developing adverse effects. We mention below those of prednisone:

• Do not take if you have had an allergy or hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug.
• It should not be indicated in patients with diabetesMellitus.
• Do not indicate in patients with renal insufficiency or severe hepatic insufficiency.
• The dose should not be suppressed. It must be gradually decreased.
• Do not indicate in children under 12 years of age and do not leave the medicine within their reach.
• Do not drink alcohol during medical treatment.
• Do not indicate if pregnancy is suspected or if you are breastfeeding.

You should know: It is important to indicate the medical history, so that an adequate and pertinent treatment can be assigned. can be assigned.

Key Findings

• Prednisone is from the group of corticosteroid drugs, indicated for the treatment of autoimmune and infectious diseases.
• It is important to see your medical professional for information if you experience side effects while taking prednisone.
• Prednisone can have an adverse effect if it is withdrawn or withdrawn, especially if you must take high doses. They must be gradually decreased.
• Prednisone is a drug used as an adjunctive treatment in patients with tuberculosis, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis.