Medication Card: Prednisone

What is the primary use of Prednisone in medicine?

Addison’s Disease (Chronic Adrenal Insufficiency)

What type of drug is Prednisone?

Synthetic glucocorticoid that mimics cortisol.

What does Prednisone do in the body?

Suppresses inflammation and affects carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism.

What condition does Prednisone replace deficient cortisol in?

Addison’s disease.

Name one indication for using Prednisone outside of Addison's Disease.

Inflammatory and autoimmune disorders (e.g., asthma, rheumatoid arthritis).

What should be done to the Prednisone dose during times of stress or illness?

May require dose increase.

What are two contraindications for using Prednisone?

Systemic fungal infections and hypersensitivity to prednisone.

What caution should be taken when discontinuing Prednisone?

Taper slowly to avoid adrenal crisis.

List one adverse effect of long-term use of Prednisone.

Osteoporosis.

What is a common interaction of Prednisone with antidiabetics?

May increase blood glucose.

What should be monitored while a patient is on Prednisone therapy?

Vital signs, electrolytes, glucose, and weight.

What should patients be taught to avoid when taking Prednisone?

Exposure to live vaccines.

How should Prednisone be taken to prevent GI upset?

With food or milk.

What is an important action if a patient experiences signs of infection while on Prednisone?

Monitor closely as they are in an immunosuppressed state.

What is a side effect of overdosing on Prednisone?

Cushings sydrome features.

Why should patients with uncontrolled diabetes use caution when taking Prednisone?

It can worsen hyperglycemia.

What should patients wear to indicate they are dependent on steroids like Prednisone?

A medical alert bracelet.

What is one gastrointestinal risk associated with Prednisone use?

Gastric irritation or peptic ulcers.

What is an adverse effect related to mood that patients on Prednisone may experience?

Mood changes.