Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis with Prednisone: Understanding Dosage and Advantages
Prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, is often used to alleviate symptoms of various conditions such as inflammatory forms of arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, certain autoimmune conditions, asthma, allergic rhinitis, hives, atopic eczema, multiple sclerosis, and more [1][3][5]. However, long-term use of this medication can lead to several significant side effects.
One of the most common side effects is insomnia, which can be managed by taking the medication in the morning to help reduce the risk [6]. Other potential side effects include weight gain, particularly in the upper back or belly, puffy face, severe headaches, slow wound healing, and muscle weakness [2].
Prednisone can also affect metabolism, leading to high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and increased sweating [3]. In some cases, it may even cause or worsen diabetes. Symptoms of high blood sugar include sleepiness or confusion, excessive thirst or hunger, passing urine more often than usual, fast breathing, and fruity-smelling breath [3].
The medication can also have an impact on bone health, potentially leading to osteoporosis and increased fracture risk [1][3][5]. It's essential for people taking prednisone to eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly to avoid weight gain and maintain bone health.
Prednisone can suppress the adrenal glands, reducing natural cortisol production and increasing the risk of adrenal insufficiency [3]. Symptoms of adrenal gland problems include weight loss, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, mood changes, and muscle weakness [2].
The medication can also affect eye health, potentially causing cataracts and glaucoma [3]. It's crucial for individuals taking prednisone to inform their doctor about any concerning symptoms they may experience.
Long-term use of prednisone can also lead to psychiatric or mood changes, including nervousness, restlessness, and mood swings [3]. Children receiving prolonged prednisone therapy may also experience slower growth [1][3][5].
Because of these risks, doctors often consider strategies like alternate-day therapy to minimize side effects during long-term treatment, and close medical monitoring is recommended to manage potential complications and adjust the dose appropriately [2][3].
It's important to note that prednisone should not be taken by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless directed by a doctor [8]. It should also not be taken by people who are allergic to it or by those with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or a history of mental illness [9].
Prednisone may interact with various medications, supplements, or herbal remedies, so it's crucial for individuals taking prednisone to inform their doctor about all other medications they are taking [4]. It's also advisable to avoid taking live vaccines while on prednisone, as the medication can weaken the immune system [10].
In summary, while prednisone can be effective for inflammation control, long-term use may cause multiple systemic side effects, especially related to bone health, metabolism, immune function, and eye health, requiring careful medical supervision. If a person experiences any concerning side effects while taking prednisone, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279220/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5747128/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6490868/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3848821/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4060628/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3758632/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6766755/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5747128/ [9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3848821/ [10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3848821/
- Treatmentseekers for psoriatic arthritis may find relief with Prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, used to alleviate symptoms of various chronic diseases, including arthritis.
- However, treatment seekers should be aware that long-term use of Prednisone can lead to several significant side effects, such as insomnia, weight gain, and potential impact on bone health.
- The science behind Prednisone shows it can affect metabolism, leading to high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and increased sweating, possibly causing or worsening diabetes.
- Skin-conditions like psoriasis, atopic eczema, or hives might improve with Prednisone, but it can also impact eye health, potentially causing cataracts and glaucoma.
- Long-term use of Prednisone can lead to psychiatric or mood changes, including nervousness, restlessness, and mood swings, making it essential for treatmentseekers to seek medical attention if they experience any concerning side effects.
- For persons with megladermedical-conditions or those taking multiple medications, supplements, or herbal remedies, it's crucial to inform their healthcare provider about all treatments before starting Prednisone.
- Medical-condition switchers looking for alternative therapies and treatments for chronic diseases may find value in considering strategies like alternate-day therapy or close medical monitoring to minimize side effects during long-term treatment with Prednisone.
