Prednisone, also known as Meticorten and Sterapred, belongs to a family of drugs referred to as corticosteroids, according to Drugs.com (see References below). It works by blocking the substances within your body that cause inflammation. Prednisone is used to treat a variety of conditions including asthma, arthritis and lupus. There are short-term and long-term side effects, some of them severe, which you should be aware of before beginning this medication.
Short-Term Side Effects
The most common short-term side effects of prednisone include headaches, changes in your mood such as aggression or irritation, stomach upset and problems sleeping (insomnia), according to eMedTV.com (see References below).
Long-Term Side Effects
The long-term side effects of prednisone include weight gain, fluid retention, acne, the development of stretch marks on your stomach, thinning skin, stunted growth in children, development of osteoporosis, loss of muscle, deposits of fat on the neck and face, and the formation of cataracts. These are more common in patients who take prednisone over a long period of time.
Severe Side Effects
If you experience any of these side effects, consult your doctor promptly before continuing with your usual dosing instructions. Severe side effects include high blood pressure, the development of diabetes, ruptured tendons, severe fluid retention, hallucinations, extreme aggression and glaucoma.
Signs of Allergic Reaction
In the event you are allergic to prednisone, you might experience one or all of the following side effects: swelling of your throat, lips, face and tongue, development of hives or an unexplained rash. and difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
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