Glucocorticoids are chemically synthesized steroids that mimic the effects of natural hormones produced by the adrenal glands.Prednisone should be used in the lowest dose possible to control the disease. However, one common mistake made by inexperienced physaicians is to lower the dose of prednisone or discontinue it too quickly.Since prednisone is used so commonly, people are often concerned about the potential side effects. The side effects occur more frequently with high-dose or long-term use of prednisone.
Possible side effects include:
- Sodium (salt) retention
- Fluid retention
- Edema
- Weight gain/Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Elevated blood sugar
- Elevated blood fats
- Potassium loss
- Headache
- Muscle weakness
- Puffiness or moon face
- Growth of facial hair
- Bruising easily
- Thinning of skin
- Purple streaking (stria) of the skin
- Poor wound healing
- Osteoporosis
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Stomach ulcers
- Inflammation of the pancreas
- Aseptic necrosis
- Irregular periods
- Rounding of upper back
- Growth retardation in children
- Increased appetite
- Insomnia
- Psychiatric issues (depression, mood swings, personality changes)
- Suppression of normal adrenal gland function
