What Is Prednisone?

Prednisone belongs to a class of medicines known as corticosteroids. These medications suppress the immune system and prevent the body from releasing substances that trigger inflammation. Prednisone is used in the treatment of conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, severe allergies, arthritis, and breathing difficulties. Most patients take this medication by mouth, and it can be used for short and long-term therapy. Side effects are more likely to occur when prednisone is used for a long time, and taking doses higher than 7.5 milligrams per day could further increase a patient's chances of developing side effects. Since this medication can cause an upset stomach, doctors generally recommend taking it with food or milk, and the tablet form should be consumed with eight ounces of water. Patients who take a single dose of prednisone each day are often advised to take their daily dose before nine in the morning. Doctors may need to adjust a patient's prednisone dose during times when the patient is under significant stress.