Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Prednisone can interact with many medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing side effects. For example, it can increase blood sugar levels, requiring adjustments to diabetes medications. It may also weaken the immune system, impacting the effectiveness of vaccines.
Specific Medication Interactions
Avoid alcohol while on prednisone; it can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and other complications. Certain medications, such as blood thinners (warfarin) and certain heart medications, require careful monitoring when combined with prednisone. Your physician will guide you on any necessary dosage adjustments or alternative treatments.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
Report any unusual symptoms, such as weight gain, fluid retention, increased thirst, frequent urination, mood changes, or vision problems, immediately to your doctor. Prednisone can increase the risk of infections, so avoid contact with sick individuals. Long-term use of prednisone carries a higher risk of serious side effects. Discuss tapering off the medication with your doctor to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Avoid abrupt cessation of prednisone, as this can be harmful.
