Treatment for autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions, and certain inflammatory conditions involves the use of glucocorticoids. Prednisone is one among the more commonly recommended synthetic corticosteroid belonging to the class of glucocorticoids. The drug possesses potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties that lends its effectiveness. Patients are known to raise a question regarding the drug – can prednisone raise blood pressure? Here is a detailed look at the medication, its effects, and mechanism of action to help understand the possible effect on blood pressure levels.
Overview of prednisone
Available in various formulations, such as oral tablets, liquid solutions, and injectable forms Prednisone is typically prescribed for short-term use at the lowest effective dose for shorter durations. Prednisone has both anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, which help to reduce inflammation, swelling, redness, and pain associated with various conditions. The drug is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, dermatologic conditions, allergic reactions, and certain types of cancers. Prednisone mimics the action of corticosteroid hormones that are naturally produced by the adrenal glands in the body.
Mechanism of action of prednisone
The mechanism of action of the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent involves binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, resulting in a wide range of outcomes, outlined below:
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Prednisone suppresses the immune system by inhibiting the production and release of inflammatory mediators – cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes. This reduces inflammation and swelling.
- Immunosuppressive effects: The drug suppresses the immune response by inhibiting the activation and proliferation of immune cells – lymphocytes and macrophages. This helps in conditions where an overactive immune response is responsible for autoimmune diseases.
- Metabolic effects: The glucocorticoid has an impact on carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism. It increases the release of glucose from the liver, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. It is also known to promote protein catabolism apart from inhibiting protein synthesis, that can result in muscle wasting.
- Anti-allergic effects: The medication reduces the severity of allergic reactions by suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators and inhibiting the activation of immune cells involved in allergic responses.
Prednisone dampens the inflammatory response and immune system activity, alleviating symptoms of various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. By virtue of its broad range of effects on different body systems, the prescription medication is to be used only as directed by a specialist.
Side effects of prednisone
Corticosteroids are known to be responsible for a wide range of possible side effects, and Prednisone is no exception. The severity and frequency of undesirable outcomes depend on the dosage, duration of use, and the patient. Commonly reported side effects of prednisone include the following:
- Adrenal suppression: Prolonged use of prednisone can suppress the function of the adrenal glands, responsible for producing natural corticosteroids in the body. This can result in fatigue, weakness, and low blood sugar levels.
- Glucose intolerance: The glucocorticoid can increase blood sugar levels by promoting glucose release from the liver and reducing glucose utilization by cells. This can result in possible diabetes, especially in individuals with pre-existing risk factors.
- Bone loss: Long-term use of the drug can result in bone loss, and increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The risk is high among elderly patients and individuals with other risk factors.
- Fluid retention: This is another possible outcome, and this could result in swelling or edema – in the face, hands, and feet.
- Weight gain: Another possible effect of Prednisone is weight gain due to fluid retention, increased appetite, and alterations in metabolism.
- Increased risk of infections: As a result of the suppressed immune system, the individual is exposed to an increased risk of infections.
- Gastrointestinal effects: The drug is also known to cause possible gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach ulcers, indigestion, and increased appetite.
- Mood changes: As a result of the mechanism of action, individuals may exhibit changes in mood and behavior, and experience anxiety and insomnia.
- Eye problems: Long-term use of prednisone can increase the risk of eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.
- Skin changes: The medication may cause skin changes, including thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and delayed wound healing.
Can prednisone raise blood pressure?
Prednisone has the potential to raise blood pressure, as corticosteroid medications typically have various effects on the body, including fluid retention, altered metabolism, and changes in the cardiovascular system. These effects are known to contribute to an increase in blood pressure, particularly when prednisone is used at high doses or for prolonged periods of time.
As a result of fluid retention, an increase in blood volume may occur, and subsequently elevate blood pressure. The drug is also known to cause increased appetite and weight gain, that in turn contributes to an increase in blood pressure. The impact on the metabolism of carbohydrates, also results in increased blood sugar levels, indirectly resulting in elevated blood pressure. Additionally, the drug’s effects on the cardiovascular system, such as increased heart rate, increased cardiac output, and increased sensitivity to catecholamines contribute to increased blood pressure levels.
The risk of increased blood pressure from prednisone may vary, and depends on several factors such as the dose, duration of use, individual patient characteristics, and other risk factors for hypertension.
How to prevent and manage increase in blood pressure due to prednisone?
Several steps help prevent and manage the possible outcome of increased blood pressure levels, as listed below:
- Intake of prednisone is to be exactly as prescribed, as excessive dosage or duration can increase the risk of an increase in blood pressure.
- Blood pressure levels are to be monitored regularly, especially among individuals with pre-existing hypertension or other cardiovascular risk factors.
- Adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle significantly helps prevent and manage an increase in blood pressure. This includes consumption of a balanced diet low in sodium, sugar, and saturated fats, with regular physical activity, maintaining weight, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption.
Whenever necessary, dosage may be modified by the treating specialist, or additional medications may also be prescribed to manage blood pressure levels.