Corticosteroids are widely prescribed as part of many kinds of medication plans. These steroidal meds are used for treating painful joint(s), skin problems, immunity-related disorders, allergies, etc. Prednisone is a commonly prescribed corticosteroid; it is used for handling several autoimmune conditions like joint pains as well as allergic reactions like itchiness, swelling as well as formation of rashes / other skin conditions. Do I take 6 prednisone tablets – all at once – on the very 1st day of my treatment? It is important to know more on this before commencing your treatment.
Prednisone is a corticosteroid. One of the key benefits of administering corticosteroids is their ability to treat inflammation / internal swelling. The main ingredients of this med help control the activities of immunity cells, and bring about needful remedies. Such control is needed for managing allergic reactions, which are caused by autoimmune ailments. In essence, prednisone derives its remedial capabilities by its ability to minimise responses of your immune system.
Do I consume all 6 prednisone tablets at once on the 1st day?
In other words, if the prescription advises me to take 10 mg X 6 pills on day-1, must I consume all 6 on one day? It is a safe practice to consume one dose of prednisone (one within 24 hours) soon after morning meal. For instance, for a daily dose of say 30 mg – it is a common thing to take 6 pills of 5 milligrams (mg) each – all at once – after your breakfast.
But, no two individuals are likely to have the same allergic reactions; hence, no two medication plans are same. Your treatment plan is influenced by your weight, age, gender, how acute is the allergic reaction and if you have any prior conditions. You must remember that prednisone is not an OTC drug. It is highly recommended to take it as per directions of your caregiving team.
It can be dangerous to stop using this corticosteroid without telling your caregiver. A few people – who discontinued the use of this med without proper medical advice – witnessed acute episodes of headaches, weariness, abdominal problems like vomiting, indigestion and nausea, overall weakness, etc. So, if you encounter any of these aforesaid discomforts, it is a safe thing to get needful clinical support on an urgent basis.
So, how to stop taking prednisone?
Your treating doctor will slowly reduce (i.e. taper) the last dosages of this steroidal med, over a period of time. Such an approach is known to avoid possible incidence of withdrawal related problems like being dizzy or drowsy, involuntary shaking of your body/tremors, increase in body temperature, fever, signs of infections like a runny nose or a few allergic reactions like swelling of oral parts, itchiness, respiratory problems like wheezing, gasping for breath, etc.
Those who witness any of these symptoms must consult with their caregiving team immediately. If you are in the US, call 911 urgently. US residents can also call the helpline number of the food & drug administration. Canadian residents may either reach out to Health Canada or go to a poison control desk – in your province without much delay.
Last but not least, while consuming this steroidal med, it can be dangerous to do tasks that require a fair level of focus and/or mental concentration. You are advised to refrain from doing tasks like driving, working with heavy machines or adventurous sporting actions like swimming, jumping or running. Flouting any of these precautions may lead to near-fatal or fatal accidents, harming others and your own self.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Tufts University. Experience: 6 years of experience as a registered dietitian and freelance writer, creating content on nutritional science and weight management for various health websites.
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