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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Prednisone?

Pulmonary doctor just prescribed a shock dose of prednisone because my COPD has flared up recently. Started last Wednesday; 4 for three days, 3 for three days, 2 for three days, then back to a 1 per day maintenance dose. What kind of side effects might I expect to have?
Wed, 28 Dec 2016
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi there

A short course of prednisone has significantly less side effects when compared to daily use. The side effects you are most likely going to experience is abdominal bloating and indigestion. It is recommended that you take prednisone after a meal and also use a proton pump inhibitor tablet to prevent gastritis eg losec 20mg daily. While on prednisone, you are more at risk of developing infections so take precautions and minimize exposure to places where you are likely to contract an infection. You may also have difficulty sleeping while taking the tablets.

Daily use for prolonged periods can lead to osteoporosis, weight gain, changes in mood, depression as well as certain endocrine abnormalities. This however is unlikely as you have been prescribed a low dose for a short period which is considered safe.

Hope this helps.
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What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Prednisone?

Hi there A short course of prednisone has significantly less side effects when compared to daily use. The side effects you are most likely going to experience is abdominal bloating and indigestion. It is recommended that you take prednisone after a meal and also use a proton pump inhibitor tablet to prevent gastritis eg losec 20mg daily. While on prednisone, you are more at risk of developing infections so take precautions and minimize exposure to places where you are likely to contract an infection. You may also have difficulty sleeping while taking the tablets. Daily use for prolonged periods can lead to osteoporosis, weight gain, changes in mood, depression as well as certain endocrine abnormalities. This however is unlikely as you have been prescribed a low dose for a short period which is considered safe. Hope this helps.