Prednisone: What It Is, How to Use It & What to Watch For

If you’ve been handed a bottle of prednisone, you probably have questions. This steroid is one of the most prescribed drugs for inflammation, allergies, and autoimmune conditions in Canada. Below we break down the basics so you can feel confident about taking it.

How Prednisone Works

Prednisone mimics cortisol, a hormone your adrenal glands make naturally. By boosting cortisol levels, it tells your immune system to calm down. That’s why doctors use it for asthma flare‑ups, rheumatoid arthritis, skin rashes, and even certain cancers.

The drug starts working within hours, but the full effect may take a few days. Because it suppresses inflammation, you’ll often notice less pain, swelling, or itching soon after your first dose.

Typical Dosage & When to Seek Help

Dosage varies widely – from as low as 5 mg for mild eczema to 60 mg for severe flare‑ups. Your doctor will tailor the amount based on your condition, weight, and how you respond. Most people start with a higher “burst” dose that tapers down over weeks.

Never change the dose or stop abruptly without talking to your prescriber. Cutting prednisone suddenly can cause adrenal insufficiency, which feels like extreme fatigue, nausea, and dizziness.

If you notice any of these signs – sudden weight gain, high blood sugar, mood swings, or persistent infections – call your doctor right away. Those are clues the steroid is affecting other systems in your body.

Common short‑term side effects include increased appetite, trouble sleeping, and mild stomach upset. Most fade once you finish the course. Long‑term use can lead to bone thinning, cataracts, or high blood pressure, so regular check‑ups are a must if you stay on prednisone for months.

To keep side effects in check, take prednisone with food, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. If you’re on other meds like blood thinners or diabetes drugs, ask your pharmacist how they might interact.

Remember, prednisone isn’t a cure – it’s a tool to control symptoms while your body heals or other treatments kick in. Use it exactly as prescribed, watch for changes, and keep an open line with your healthcare team.