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What Is Prednisone 5 mg?
Prednisone 5 mg is a corticosteroid medication used to treat various conditions, including arthritis, blood disorders, breathing problems, severe allergies, skin diseases, cancer, eye problems, and immune system disorders.
Prednisone 5 works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system.
Dosage Information
- The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Your doctor may direct you to take prednisone 1 to 4 times a day or take it every other day.
- Prednisone 5 essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and not stop taking prednisone without consulting your doctor.
How To Take
- Take prednisone with food or milk to prevent stomach upset.
- Swallow the tablet form of this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
- If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon.
Important
- Do not stop taking prednisone without consulting your doctor.
- Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped.
- If you are taking this medication on a different schedule than a daily one (such as every other day), it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Sudden weight gain
- Shortness of breath, especially during the night
- Dry, hacking cough
- Swelling or pain in the stomach
- Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Rash
- Hives
- Itching
Interactions
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to prednisone, any other medications, or any of the inactive ingredients in prednisone tablets or solutions.
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take while taking prednisone.
- Do not start any of these medications while taking prednisone without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Precautions
- If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor.
- This medication may mask signs of infection. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu).
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially bone loss/pain, stomach/intestinal bleeding, and mental/mood changes (such as confusion).
