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Prednisone can be a life saving drug. It saved my sanity when I developed sudden hearing loss in one ear. That was a really scary experience for someone who depends on hearing to be able to do live radio. Being deaf in one ear was incredibly disorienting.
The ear, nose and throat specialist diagnosed my deafness as “idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss.” In other words, he didn’t have a clue what caused it. He prescribed high doses of prednisone for a short time and within a few days my hearing returned.
Other Corticosteroids:
There are a number of other medications that act in a similar manner to prednisone. They may be used in skin creams (topical preparations) or taken as pills.
These include:
- Cortisone
- Dexamethasone
- Hydrocortisone
- Methylprednisolone
- Prednisolone
All of these medications have different potencies, so they are prescribed at different doses. Even though they work in a similar way, they are not interchangeable.
Some steroid medicines such as fluticasone are designed primarily for inhalation or as eye drops. We are not discussing uses and side effects of those medications in this article.
As useful as corticosteroids can be for a wide range of conditions, the drugs can also cause an extraordinary number of serious side effects. Some people have likened such prednisone side effects to a deal with the devil. Even short-term use can cause problems for some people.
What Prednisone Treats:
Allergic Reactions:
One of the reasons prednisone and other corticosteroid drugs are prescribed fairly frequently is that their powerful anti-inflammatory action can be useful in many situations. These include very serious allergic reactions, such as serious poison ivy.
Another type of allergic reaction, to latex, peanuts, wasp stings, medication or other triggers, can result in anaphylactic shock. The immediate treatment is epinephrine. Prednisone or other steroids may be used to stabilize body systems after epinephrine opens the airways.
Asthma:
In an acute asthma flare-up that can’t be controlled with the usual inhaled steroid or bronchodilator, prednisone can improve breathing. It reduces airway inflammation and can be very helpful in an emergency, though it is not appropriate as a standard asthma treatment.
Autoimmune Diseases:
Autoimmune conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (also known as Crohn’s disease), lupus, polymyalgia rheumatica and rheumatoid arthritis can all cause severe pain and inflammation. Corticosteroids such as prednisone calm the hyperactive immune response as well as the inflammation. None of these steroid medications is a long-term solution, but they can get patients through difficult flare-ups.
Addison’s Disease:
In Addison’s disease, the adrenal cortex tissue that sits atop the kidney and produces the hormones cortisol and aldosterone fails. Frequently an autoimmune attack is the cause of the this condition, although infections can also trigger Addison’s disease. Secondary adrenal insufficiency can be one of the prednisone side effects that accompany long-term treatment for another condition. To treat this serious disorder, doctors prescribe hydrocortisone, cortisone or prednisone to replace the missing cortisol and fludrocortisone to replace the aldosterone.
Cancer Treatment:
Prednisone or other corticosteroids can be useful in treating a number of cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma. In addition to reducing inflammation due to the cancer itself, such medications may help lessen the likelihood of reactions to chemotherapy, including severe nausea caused by chemo.
Severe COVID-19:
Corticosteroids, especially dexamethasone and methylprednisone, are used to prevent cytokine storms in patients with severe COVID-19 (EXCLI Journal, Feb. 15, 2021). By tamping down an over-exuberant immune response, they help patients who require ventilation. On the other hand, they can trigger side effects such as fluid retention, reduced glucose tolerance, behavioral and mood alteration, weight gain, high blood pressure and increased appetite. Occasionally, patients will develop seizures as a reaction.
Neurological Inflammation:
Steroids such as prednisone are often used to reduce inflammation in brain or nerve tissue. This might be caused by a brain tumor or a traumatic brain injury. Prednisone can prevent brain swelling and the serious consequences that could result. Corticosteroid drugs may also help calm the inflammation of optic neuritis and multiple sclerosis.
Prednisone or another corticosteroid can prevent blindness when it is used to calm acute inflammation of blood vessels in the head, called giant cell arteritis. It can also reduce the swelling of the brain that may occur with altitude sickness.
Joe’s Personal Experience with Prednisone Side Effects:
Joe’s experience taking prednisone to reverse his acute hearing loss illustrates some of the prednisone side effects that other people may encounter. That week or two, he couldn’t sleep, became incredibly irritable and hard to live with, and felt as if he had turned into someone else he didn’t know or like.
His experience was not at all unique. A May, 2012, study in the American Journal of Psychiatry analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of European patients over an 18 year period.
They discovered that people taking corticosteroids were more likely to experience neuropsychiatric symptoms including depression, suicidal thoughts (and actions), delirium, disorientation, confusion, panic and manic episodes.
The authors conclude that:
“Glucocorticoids [another term for corticosteroids] increase the risk of suicidal behavior and neuropsychiatric disorders. Educating patients and their families about these adverse events and increasing primary care physicians’ awareness about their occurrence should facilitate early monitoring.”
Joe responds to this conclusion:
“I can relate. I certainly felt disoriented and out of control on the relatively high dose I was taking. The trouble is that patients and their families are not always warned about such side effects.”
We have heard from a surprising number of people that they were given very little information about prednisone side effects. That is especially true for the psychological roller coaster ride that sometimes occurs.
Ella had an experience somewhat similar to Joe’s:
“I’m really glad to have found this article. I’ve been on prednisone for 2 weeks now for sudden hearing loss in one ear. At my last doctor visit I was given another prescription for 2 more weeks to eventually taper off the drug. I am so ready to be off of this drug so, I thought that I would skip tapering off of it. But after reading about side effects others have had without the tapering, I will definitely taper off as prescribed.
“The side effects are awful: Difficulty focusing, brain fog, jittery shaky inside feeling. I am irritated by things I’m not normally irritated by. I am also waking up in the middle of the night.”
What Should You Know About Prednisone Side Effects?
There are some key questions you should ask whenever you are handed a prescription. You should know what the drug is and why you are taking it. Find out how to take it (how many times a day, with food or not, etc.) and how long to take it. Ask how to stop taking it, as that information is often left out of the discussion and it can be very important.
The most important information, however, is what side effects to expect. You have a right to know what side effects are most common. You might also want to ask about reactions that are rare but deserve immediate medical attention. This reader did not get any advance warning about prednisone side effects.
Surprised by Prednisone Side Effects:
Q. I was prescribed prednisone for sinusitis. It was a nightmare.
I gained weight and my face puffed up. Strange dreams troubled my rare nights of sleep. I became irritable and aggressive. Things that wouldn’t normally bother me made me want to scream.
I wish my doctor had warned me about these prednisone side effects in advance so I would have been better prepared.
A. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to ease a variety of inflammatory conditions ranging from asthma and severe poison ivy to arthritis and lupus.
As useful as it can be for serious health conditions, there is a long list of troublesome side effects. Some of the most common include fluid retention (edema), insomnia, irritability, mood swings, disorientation, high blood pressure, loss of potassium, headache and swollen face.
Long-term complications may include muscle weakness, osteoporosis, cataracts, glaucoma and ulcers. Prescribers and pharmacist should warn patients what to expect in the way of prednisone side effects so they do not suffer in the dark as you did.
Steroid Psychosis from Prednisone Prescribed for Sinusitis:
Q. I am in very good health except for recurrent sinus infections. Recently, my internist put me on a 12-day tapered course of prednisone.
Within days I thought I was going crazy. I became extremely agitated and irritable and the least little thing set me off. For three days, I didn’t sleep even with sleeping pills. I couldn’t concentrate. My blood pressure soared and I became very fearful.
My doctor never warned me about any of this. Are these normal side effects of prednisone and what will I do if I have to take this drug again?
A. Prednisone and other corticosteroids (Medrol and Deltasone Dosepaks) relieve symptoms from a variety of conditions, including sinusitis. Many people experience severe psychological reactions to high doses of such drugs, however.
Steroid psychosis can cause anxiety, agitation, euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes and even serious depression. Some patients may experience memory problems or hallucinations.
Let your doctor know you are susceptible to this kind of reaction. If you ever have to take more than 40 mg of prednisone at a time, you may need medication to counteract the psychiatric side effects.
Scary Prednisone Side Effects that Have Been Reported to Us:
A.C. shared this story:
“Years ago I was given prednisone in the emergency room for a severe anaphylactic reaction that affected my ability to breathe and caused massive hives. Although the treatment may have been necessary, I too had a severe psychotic reaction and when I finally went to my own doctor and had blood tests, my blood chemistry was all over the map. Since I had to continue the tapered dose till I was done, I wish someone had warned me of possible side effects so at least I wouldn’t think I was totally crazy.
“I questioned my ability to drive, slept constantly and was quite volatile. Work was too much of a challenge. Knowledge is power! People should be warned about possible side effects so they have the information should prednisone side effects occur.”
When people are unprepared for the psychological side effects of prednisone, they can be caught off guard. So can family, friends and co-workers. In A.C.’s case, the prednisone was was essential for survival. That said, A.C. should have been alerted to possible side effects.
As we mentioned earlier, corticosteroids are essential drugs for many conditions. A severe asthma attack may require a short course of oral prednisone or a similar steroid. People who are put on the new immunotherapy checkpoint inhibitors against cancer such as Keytruda or Opdivo may experience an overactive immune system. That can result in skin rash and itching, severe diarrhea and colitis, hepatitis, pneumonitis, adrenal insufficiency, eye inflammation and neurotoxicity. High doses of corticosteroids may be required to counteract such reactions to the cancer medications. Even then, people must be warned about complications.
Ely describes what happened after a moderate dose of prednisone:
“I’m having prednisone side effects. My doctor prescribed this drug last Thursday. She prescribed 20 mg twice daily for five days. I was sleepless for three days in row. On day 4 after a short nap I awake feeling so nervous. I am crying, my hands are shaking, and my heart is beating so hard. These are awful feelings.
“My doctor told me I will feel that way for about nine days. She didn’t show any care about me. She also said I can go back to work (and drive a long way) the next day. But the way I was and am feeling, I’m not daring to drive even one block.
“I do not understand why she prescribed that medicine, without any warning, for a small allergy I had. I mean the medicine was worse than my illness.”
Bob describes what it’s like to be sleepless on steroids:
“My wife had sleepless nights when on prednisone and the doctor said that she might do some odd things that she normally wouldn’t do. He was right. One night she got up and tore down the wall paper in our bathroom :-) We still get a laugh over this one.”
How to Stop Prednisone:
We may have mentioned that when steroids are taken even for a short time, such as a week or ten days, the usual protocol is to start at a relatively high dose and then taper it down gradually. That reduces the risk of an unpleasant withdrawal reaction. Always ask the prescriber about the taper and follow the instructions.
A.M.S was not told how to stop steroids:
“I was on 20 mg twice a day of prednisone for a sinus infection. Had I known anything about this horrible drug, I would have never taken the meds and let my sinus infection clear up on its own. That would have been better than these prednisone side effects.
“I was not told to taper the dose, so I took as prescribed 20 mg twice daily for 7 days. The day after stopping, my whole body hurt to the touch, as if I was black and blue all over. There was a swollen, red lump on my neck, and I felt very disoriented. When I went back to the doctor, he insisted this had nothing to do with the drug.
“I checked myself into the ER where they put an IV drip with Benadryl and the like. Although I was discharged that day, there was no change. The next day, I didn’t hurt to the touch anymore. New side effect – rash from head to toe and severe indigestion. Following day, rash subsiding, indigestion getting better. Still feeling a bit loopy, but they say that by next week I should be back to myself again.
“I am warning everyone I know not to ever take a steroid unless your life is in danger. It is a very scary feeling – all for a sinus infection.”
S.K.F. describes prednisone withdrawal:
“I am experiencing high blood pressure, agoraphobia, panic attacks, lightheadedness, confusion, weakness, intolerance to heat, IBS, shaking, etc. These side effects all started the day I stopped the drug. It has been 7 days with not much improvement. I was hospitalized for 3 days. I pray I do not EVER have to take prednisone again… EVER.
“I am hoping I get past this. My quality of life stinks. I took 30 mg 1 day 20 mg 2 days and 1 mg 2 days. Absolutely HATE this.
Just the Tip of the Corticosteroid Iceberg:
These are just a few of the messages that have been posted to our website. At last count there were over 800 comments in the feedback section of this post. Feel free to add your story or comment below.
We find it astonishing that some prescribers do not warn patients about the possibility of psychological side effects brought on by prednisone and friends. Even a short-course of high-dose steroid can precipitate symptoms. And not telling patients about gradual tapering borders on bad medicine. To protect yourself and your loved ones from such medical mistakes we suggest our latest book, Top Screw-ups Doctors Make and How to Avoid Them.
Psychological reactions such as insomnia and irritability are common, but they are certainly not the only prednisone side effects. Some of these adverse consequences, such as osteopenia, diabetes or glaucoma, appear only after long-term use of the drug. Others, such as confusion, high blood pressure or a drop in potassium, can occur on a shorter time frame. The most serious prednisone side effects that may happen within a week or two of use are dangerous blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), ulcers and infections.
Other Prednisone Side Effects:
- Fluid retention, edema
- Insomnia
- Irritability, nervousness, mood swings, mania, depression, psychosis
- Disorientation, confusion
- Hypertension
- Loss of potassium
- Headache
- Dizziness, vertigo
- Muscle weakness
- Blood sugar elevation (diabetes)
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Swollen face
- Hair growth (including on the face)
- Itching, rash, hives
- Increased susceptibility to infection
- Weakened bones (osteopenia, osteoporosis)
- Tendon rupture
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Ulcers
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)
- Avascular necrosis of the hip
The higher the dose and the longer someone takes a drug like prednisone, the more likely there will be prednisone side effects. A recent study of people with steroid-dependent asthma reported that the majority of patients who had been taking prednisone for years experienced side effects such as bone density loss (72%), high blood pressure (60%), cataracts (42%), easy bruising (35%), diabetes (16%) and glaucoma (14%) (Aziz-Ur-Rehman et al, Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology, online April 4, 2017).
The People’s Pharmacy Perspective:
Make sure your physician is monitoring things like potassium, blood sugar, bone density and psychological well being. And again, never stop a corticosteroid suddenly!
We want to emphasize that corticosteroids can be very valuable. Some people must take them for the rest of their lives because of a very serious or life-threatening condition. And NO ONE should ever stop taking a drug like prednisone suddenly. It must be phased off gradually under medical supervision.
If you found this article of value, please take 3 seconds to scroll to the top of the page and vote on the usefulness of this information. Many thanks from The People’s Pharmacy.
Barbara
Like Joe, I also had sudden deafness in my left ear. The steroids did not work for me. This happened to me in 2018. I had always been careful with my ears and didn’t blast music. I’m still bitter about why this happened to me. I did not get my hearing back.
I should have called my ENT immediately, and if it is after hours, I should have gone to the ER for help to start treatment right away. Please advise people to do the same.
In my case, it happened on a Friday evening, and I knew nothing about this and waited till Monday to call my ENT. Maybe if I knew to seek help right away, I could have saved my hearing. Sudden hearing loss is something that is not widely known but it should be, so people know what to do after hours.
Jeff
My father was diagnosed with colitis and prescribed Prednisone. He took 40mg daily for about two weeks to stop the liquid bowel movements he was having every five minutes. After the first two weeks he was instructed to taper down by 5mg per week until he was off it completely. So he had three days left until he was going to be able to stop taking it, and the symptoms came back.
Dr. put him back on the Prednisone but this time he had to go higher than 60mg for two weeks and then taper down 5mg per week until stopping. This time his blood pressure shot up so high his heart was hurting, and he had to go to the ER. He was checked into the hospital, and the heart doctor thought he saw an anomaly in his bloodwork and wanted a stress test done. He misdiagnosed his stress test and thought one of his valves must be leaking blood in his heart. So they went in through the groin and up into the heart only to discover that the valves were working perfectly, and there isn’t any leaking blood at all. There isn’t even a lot of plaque in his veins.
So the re-diagnosed him as simply having high blood pressure. I think it was caused by the Prednisone. They dismissed him from the hospital the same day, and he committed suicide that night. He was not a depressed person. He was happy. Loved his grandkid and shocked everyone who knew him. I believe this was caused by the Prednisone.
Leslie
I had been having sciatic pain that was causing numbness in my foot, as well as hip and calf pain, which began in November, 2022. When the pain didn’t resolve, my doctor gave me an oral steroid, and on day 4, I began having heart palpitations. This resolved once I completed the dosing, but I wasn’t any better.
After having an MRI, I was found to have a cyst on my spine. Fast forward to January, 2023. I was given the option of a steroid injection. I expressed my concerns to my pain doctor about the palpitations, and he swore this was such a low dose, it wouldn’t affect me. I had the epidural steroid injection on January 31 and have been having daily palpitations since then. I am miserable. This is no way to live, in fear daily, and unable to enjoy life. I will never again have this done, not after knowing the effects it has had on me.
Judith
About 20 or so years ago I took prednisone for an insect bite which had caused a red streak to start up my arm. I had absolutely no side effects to the week-long tapering down the medication. A few months ago I was prescribed prednisone for tingling and numbness in right hand and arm. It resulted in much anxiety, stress, insomnia and 3-4 occular migrane headaches daily.
I will not take this medicatiion again and placed its name on my allergies list. I believe it was a generic of the original prednisone.
Emily
I am on prednisone for one of the autoimmune conditions mentioned in this report. Around Thanksgiving, I experienced a slight flare, and following the protocol given to me by my rheumatologist, I upped the dose a couple of mg for a few days before reverting to my regular 8 mg dose. A few weeks later, I was supposed to go down another mg but my regular doctor insisted I stay at the current dose and then go to 7:twice a week. I am fine on 7 but had such a severe reaction to the 8 that I wound up in the ER with heart palpitations and panic.
The ER experience made my anxiety worse. My doctor recognized the anxiety as resulting from the prednisone but refused to let me drop to 7 mg, so for two weeks I have alternated between feeling good on 7 mg and like jumping out of my skin on 8. Finally I am on 7, have not communicated with my doctor, and feel much better. Not only is the anxiety reduced but the symptoms of my disorder are also better controlled.
I suspect that the prednisone, while combatting the inflammation, caused sleep disturbances that made me awaken stiffer, thus mimicking the disorder. I am angry that I have been kept on the higher dose for almost two months, twice what it should have been, because I have osteoporosis and am worried about the detrimental effects on my bones.
John
In this article and in the recent vitamin D article, there was no mention that prednisone suppresses vitamin D levels. Following kidney transplant in 2008 when my immunosuppressant regemin included prednisone, I started 5,000 iu of D3 and increased over time to 10,000 iu per day. My 25hydroxy vit D level is now at 73 ng/ml which the transplant team is pleased with.
John
St Louis, MO
Mary
I hope I never have to take prednisone again. First my hands and feet swelled up. I could not get shoes on and my wrists hurt so bad another doctor thought I had carpal tunnel (the doctor was getting ready to schedule surgery for that but the pain and swelling resolved after prednisone got out of my system).
My A1c went from 5.9 to 6.4 and my family doctor wanted me to take metformin (I refused). It also returned to normal.
Then my opthalmologist was shocked to find how much my cataracts had progressed. He had just told me at my appointment one year before that he was just starting to see cataracts but it would be 15 or16 years before they would bother me. But I had to have surgery for both eyes, my vision deteriorated in just six months.
Ann
Surprised not to see the association with stomach ulcers mentioned. For 5-6 years I took various doses of prednisone to treat shortness of breath from asthma. It was mostly 1-5 mg/day but by late fall 2020 I was taking 20 mg/day to breathe normally. Some of my docs warned me about this connection but more than 1 pulmonologist said they had had many patients on this dose for years with no stomach problems.
In March of 2021 I went to the ER with severe abdominal pain. 24 hours later I “crashed.” My BP went to 40/30. I was lucky to have a doc in the elevator to surgery with epinepherine & she gave me a “push”. I had surgery to repair a 1 mm perforated stomach ulcer which could not be seen even on a 2nd CT scan because my liver was sitting on it. My surgeon saw air in the abdomen on the 2nd scan. I spent 2 days in the ICU and 4 days in the hospital all except the last with a stomach tube and had a 6-mo recovery at home. My surgeon was convinced the prednisone caused it. This was a terrible experience. Please address this issue.
Gayle D
Just adding my comments about prednisone. I am very blessed to have a doctor who is very specific about slowly tapering from prednisone. I have the Polymyalgia Rheumatica condition and it (prednisone) has saved my life. I was fortunate to have never gained weight during my long term course of treatment. My face did get a little “round” (but that’s nothing but vanity) but the prednisone allowed me to resume my normal life without pain. It is amazing how sensitive the human body is to small decreases of prednisone. I discovered a website called “Health Unlocked.” It is a forum of people suffering from Polymyalgia Rheumatica and their experiences in tapering off prednisone.
I had to taper from 20 mg a day for 5 days and it took me FOUR months to do it. Tapering in increments of two or three milligrams and staying there for weeks while monitoring symptoms. My muscles have become slightly affected but I continue walking and strength training. Just glad to have a break from PMR.
Thanks for all of your information and podcasts.
Heather
I was just prescribed 20 mg of prednisone twice a day for 5 days. At first I felt irritable and couldn’t sleep but each day I took a pill. About an hour to 2 hours after taking a pill I felt really sick all over my body. My heart felt like it was racing and going to beat out of my chest. I had severe headaches and felt like my entire body had poison running through it. I called the clinic, and the Dr. who prescribed it to me told me to “Deal with it!” and that I had to go through the side effects.
I’m out on workers comp for a knee injury, and the worst thing I did was wait for permission to go to the ER. I finally got permission, and I felt like “death!” They admitted me for the night, and I spent the next 2 days on cardiac watch. It turns out I have a hypersensitivity to prednisone, and I have changed Drs. In the interim. The new Dr. Explained to me that any Dr. who prescribes prednisone should tell you about the normal side effects and the serious side effects. If anyone ever has an irregular heart beat feeling and tightness in your chest with pain they should go directly to ER !!
I’ve now been told that my heart could have gone into cardiac arrest. The hospital gave me a nitro patch which made me feel so much better.
It is imperative that if you are ever prescribed prednisone that you are aware of the serious side effects, as your life may depend on it. I am now home but my body still feels like it was run over by a truck. My new Dr. Keeps monitoring me closely, and I am taking baby aspirin daily now as a precaution. I found out the hard way that I can never take prednisone again. Since I wasn’t on a step-down, I am now feeling withdrawal symptoms (tired, depressed, complete body fatigue)
I hope my story can help someone from ever having to go through this. Be well and be safe to all!
Sarah
I think this proves the benefit of asking questions. Always ask the doctor about side effects, and ask the pharmacist questions. Always, I mean always, read the printout they give you at the pharmacy. All of it every time you get a prescription. Even if you have taken the medicine before or it is an on going medication for you.
Remember, everyone is different, and you can have a reaction to a medication you have taken in the past with no problems. I have taken prednisone before, both short and long-term and have never had any side effects from it.
Shannon
In January 2018, I had a severe back problem. It turns out that I have nerve compression among other problems. But I was given a 12 day taper of Prednisone. On the third night of taking it, I began itching everywhere, even in places that had never itched before. I was going to the bathroom anywhere from 30-40 times per hour, and I was losing weight fast. I looked like a P.O.W. fresh from the Pacific. I checked my glucose at midnight, and the glucometer couldn’t register that high. It was off the chart! 8 hours later, it registered 800 mg/dl! I was horrified! My current doctor still does not believe that I became a Type II Diabetic overnight even though a pharmacologist confirmed that 2% of people who take Prenisone become diabetics. He still treats me like I’m a liar, even to this day.
Lor
Thank you for this informative article. It has obviously hit “a mark,” with over 1,000 comments to date.
I’ve been on Pred continuously for 9.5 years, for lupus. It saved my life at a time when my kidney, liver, & bone function were severely affected by the disease. Several doctors have told I’m fortunate to be a responder, as my prognosis as the time was death or late-stage multi-organ failure within a yr. or two.
I have also been fortunate to avoid many of the common immediate side-effects others mention. However, the weaning process is a bear. I’ve never been given advice on the procedure, other than, slowly. Inevitably doctors are surprised when some new autoimmune syndrome pops up as the weaning progresses, necessitating more steroid & wiping out the “steroid savings” of the weaning process.
Presently, due to physician retirement, I have a rheumatologist who treats me like a bad person, a non-compliant patient, because I have not weaned to zero. My continuous attempts to wean below what’s considered physiological replacement (5 mg. day) result in headache, nausea, diarrhea, and most scarily,trouble breathing. Thankfully, I have an understanding and supportive primary doctor.
There’s a considerable amount of variation in terms of prescribing practices for prednisone, and many times it’s Rxd for longer terms in emergency situations without explanation of the potential for FATAL OUTCOME.
Anonymous
I have not been able to find an answer to this. I, like others, have had reactions to both tablets and shots of prednisone and cortisone into a muscle for various pain over the years. Always have sleepless nights, bad headache, and extremely high blood pressure, so I avoid this med.
However, I have had extreme lower back pain and have tried everything the Drs. have prescribed, meds such as gabapentin and even percoset, and also including physical therapy and massage. My question is this: the pain clinic wants to do a spinal injection. I am desperate for relief but am afraid that could lead to a stroke. Am I being too worried and suffering needlessly by avoiding the pain clinic’s advice or am I making a correct choice in avoiding this chance for relief. I no longer know where to turn. I am not a candidate for surgery.
Kari
I was on 40mg and tapered down by 5mg each week. I barely got off of them but I’m still feeling really bad. My anxiety has been the worst it’s ever been. I’m unable to sleep. It’s actually about to be 2 a.m. already, and I can’t sleep. Also been having nightmares that seem so vivid. And I’ve been feeling depersonalization/ derealization. Been really depressed and haven’t gotten out of my house in about two weeks. I wasn’t like this till I started taking this drug. I’m taking it for my Ulcerative Colitis. I’d rather have my colon removed than to have to take this again. It’s an awful drug.
AmyInNH
Was given this repeatedly by Urgent Care facility, for three months, when it turned out to be untreated/undiagnosed pneumonia. Primary care physician, MIA (“Use Urgent Care”). I’m left wondering just how incompetent our medical community’s become, due to skewed pharma data, and corporate ownership of all aspects of medical care.
Charlotte s
Ann Arbor. Michigan
I lost a good friend over prednisone . It makes a person crazy in the head . I’m normally a very calm sweet happy nice caring person . This medicine makes a person act abnormal yelling screaming for nothing at all . I got mad at my friend for owning me 4.00 she owed me so this you see is very bad medication that results with bad headaches dizzy weird flushed sleepless jittery feeling. Was being treated for poison ivy but now I feel I would rather have it run its coarse of itching then to have my head and body feel so odd .
Suzy
Australia
Just started taking this drug, issued today due to severe allergic reaction to henna on my eyebrows with no patch test done, that was Thursday of last week and my eyes are swollen and eyebrows a mass of blisters. Took 50mg at 11am this morning and it’s now 1am and I am not able to sleep and have been active all afternoon, given the infection I thought I would be tired and I am not so googled the drug and found this. I also have AS so the doctor thought it would help with the flare up due to the infection. Now I am worried I may not be on the right drug. Not sure if I should just stop taking it, given 50mg today it has helped with the swelling, I then have 5 days of 25mg to take. Worried about the mood side of the drug. I am normally asleep by 9pm so this is totally unusual for me and I don’t feel like sleep is coming any time soon.?
Terry Graedon
Do not just stop taking it. Prednisone needs to be tapered down gradually.
Kim
Missouri
I was started on 80mg for an eye infection that wouldn’t go away. I developed tertiary adrenal insufficiency. Of course, to fix it you have go back on the drug that cause it to begin with. Ugh. Well, now I no longer have to take it but suffer with legs hurting , even feeling like lead when I walk. In reading this blog I now realize that my leg muscles must be weakened. What I want to know is this something that can be reversed or is it permanent? Two Ibuprofens help but I am needing to take them once a day. I don’t want to take anything! Could someone please help?
Gayle
United States
I had a nightmare experience with prednisone several years ago. I was accidentally given an overdose of prednisone by my primary care doctor. He told me he accidentally gave me 4 times the regular dose by making a mistake on my prescription. I had taken 4 times the dose – 160 mgs. for 10 days.
When I went back to see him, I told him I felt as though I was going to die. I couldn’t sleep for three weeks; my heart was racing; I felt an out of body experience; I was extremely weak, I was deeply depressed; face puffy so that I felt like my head was a pumpkin. I ached all over. My doctor looked into my prescription at my local pharmacy to find out why I was having such an extreme reaction. That is when he discovered that he had mistakenly given me 4 times the dose by accident! I developed hypothyroidism, high blood pressure, and am now facing pre-diabetes. No telling what shape my bones are in.
That was several years ago. I am just thankful to still be alive. I was told I certainly should have had a heart attack after being given such a large dose. I won’t take any doses of prednisone anymore and tell all my doctors about my experience. I only had a bronchial infection which had not healed fast enough to suit my doctor, so he prescribed prednisone. I was hesitant, but took it, against my better judgment. I would think the pharmacist should have caught it. It was a terrible experience that took a major toll on my body and mind. Thank you for listening. It was quite traumatic.
Susan
My couch
Hi, I have been on prednisone for over four years. I got an extremely rare illness of the lungs from radiation after breast cancer. They call it B.O.O.P.,for short. The prednisone killed my adrenal glands. Now I have to take prednisone to replace some functions of the glands they killed. I am a totally different person. I have lost some capacity to keep my mind working properly. My judgement is not like it used to be. Not to mention remembering certain words. Have weird fat-like deposits in lower back areas that are painful. I have to take prednisone the rest of my so-called life.
Gloria
Florida
I was 60, and my kidneys spewed protein. Almost died before 7 doctors diagnosed. Had every test known to man except a urinre test. A doc put me on 80 Mgs of Prednisone to start. I had every side effect, even thrush, dowagers hump. I still have problems from it. Now they call my problem fibromalgia. Not easy to live with.
Jessie
Missouri
I developed severe deep coughing and phlegm production. It has lasted for almost 2 weeks. I was given 10mg pills— 6 pills for 4 days; 5 pills for 4 days, supposed to continue till no pills. The third day after taking 5 pills I was a basket case, the coughing and phlegm started big time. I chose to start tapering off the prednisone but the deep coughing and phlegm production continues, even now. It is most unpleasant.
Candice
Maryland
I went to the ER because of a severe allergic reaction to hair dye (my whole face swole up) . They kept me overnight for two days and gave me Prednisone, Pepcid, and Benadryl through IV. After I was discharged they prescribed me a 6-day taper of prednisone starting at 60mg and ending at 10mg.
Throughout the whole taper I was dealing with IBS, severe agitation, almost violent mood swings, nausea and brain fog. I was hoping everything would get better after the discontinuation. I’m on day four now of the prednisone withdrawal. My appetite is now somewhat back but I now have a itchy rash over the majority of my body. I still have brain fog but my blood pressure is almost back to normal. I also just feel crappy like I’m in a funk all the time. I’m dizzy a lot and have NO Motivation. I JUST WANT THIS ALL TO BE OVER ALREADY!
Brian
Florida
Worst experience ever…I am a very healthy person who doesn’t like taking modern medicine. I had a sinus infection and was injected with prednisone..prescribed a zpac and prednisone for 10 days..started with 3 a day…then tapering…it gave me a headache from the start so after a few days I just took 1 a day for 9 days then stopped,. That’s when all hell broke loose. Severe anxiety..my mind was racing, I thought I had all kinds of health problems..it was awful…it’s been 2 weeks and it’s almost better…went to dr for a physical thinking I was losing my mind with thought of something being wrong with me. I have read these side effects can last up to a month…never again
Joe
I saw a doctor yesterday for shingles and he prescribed 60mg of prednisone per day to be taken all at one time for 7 days. I did took for the first time this morning and now I am feeling very strange. I wish I had read about the drug before use. I hope I do not end up in the emergency room. The doctor did not mention anything about possible side effects or tapering off.
Lenzi
Utah
Prednisone and other GLUCOCORTICOIDs at any dose can cause side effects and psychotic reactions. 10mg daily of Prednisone sent me into a psychotic state, complete with delusions and audio hallucinations. I spent 10 days in psychiatric care, along with a hefty dose of Risperdal and Depakote to pull me out of it. I will never be the same again, due to the PTSD I now suffer. This is a true story. Please think twice before loading your body with this poison. If you absolutely have to have it, just have someone watch you, and seek help immediately at the first sign of trouble. Good luck.
Ann
Indiana
I’ve had all the various experiences that others have described and have also wondered why no one is giving info re: side effects. I’ve taken prednisone off and on for over 40 years, and the last time was 2018 for pneumonia. I will never be the same after that last dose. The side effects have gotten worse over the years, but this time I thought I would die. The Dr. just shook his head and said it was necessary! I will think a long time before I take any of this medicine again.
Gary
IL 60016
Prednisone and Phototoxic plant juice rash from Wild Parsnips and Lime juice. I was exposed to Wild Parsnips, both arms and legs while climbing up and down a hill to a fishing spot. Full sunshine (85 degrees). I’d never heard of Phototoxic plants. As luck would have it, I did catch some fish, and because of that, I washed my hands several times removing the plant juice. But both arms and legs were later affected because I was in the sun and it took 5 months for Poison Ivy like symptoms to fade away. Low doses of Prednisone was a life saver.
However, when the first dosage (5 days) wore off, the rash came right back. Not one of the doctors I went to knew anything about Phototoxic plants, finally after seeing a dermatologist who understood Wild Parsnips I was given a low dose for 4 weeks. Wonderful. More info on Wild Parsnips can be found at https://laidbackgardener.blog/2018/04/16/phototoxic-plants-dont-touch-when-the-sun-shines/
Ann
NC
I was struck by how many folks above mentioned having been prescribed prednisone for sinus infections. My integrative doctor referred me to studies by the Mayo Clinic showing that something like 96% of sufferers of chronic sinusitis actually had fungal overgrowth in their sinuses and in the discharge from same. Around 40 different species of fungi were found, with an average of two species per patient. I would think that anti fungal medication would be far more appropriate than prednisone, with far fewer ghastly side effects. I hope Joe and Terry will address this issue at some point.
Ann
NC
While reading people’s experiences, I was struck by how many folks were prescribed prednisone for sinus infections. I recently learned the following from my integrative physician:
“In 1999, the Mayo Clinic did a study of 210 patients with chronic sinusitis. Biopsies of the sinus cavities and mucous discharge were examined and cultured. The results took mainstream medicine by surprise.
“Ninety-six percent of the patients had fungal overgrowth in their sinuses, along with fungus detected in their mucous discharge. Forty different species of fungi were identified, with an average of two per patient.
Chronic sinusitis is an immune response to the fungus. When white blood cells fight the fungus they create inflammation, resulting in swelling and mucous production, making us feel miserable with headaches, congestion and runny noses.”
I am hoping Joe and Terry will do some studying of this phenomenon. Surely some anti-fungal treatment would be far preferable to prednisone!
Charles Lefler
North Carolina
As a primary care physician I have frequently found that hydrocortisone for polymyalgia rheumatica can be used instead of prednisone and with significant reduction of side effects. I always follow sedimentation rates together with symptoms to determine dosage and efficacy of disease control.
Suzanne
Youngsville, NC
I was given prednisone for a severe asthma attack. I lost all my sense of smell and taste while on it. Thankfully, both came back. But I have avoided the drug since.
Muki
Durham, NC
If you or anyone else you know is taking a high dose steroid, please read: “For Anyone Who is Coping with Prednisone, Revised and Updated,” by Eugenia Zuckerman and Julie R. Ingelfinger, M.D.
My daughter was diagnosed with sudden onset AIED (auto-immune ear disorder) and the only treatment was to take a very high dose of prednisone for a month to see if it would help restore her hearing. It didn’t, so then she had to get off of it. I found this book, written by a physician and her sister, the renowned flutist, who underwent a similar experience. It was extremely helpful. My daughter followed their recommendations and since that time, we have both recommended it to others.
Mary
GREENSBORO, NC
I was quite interested (and surprised) to see hives listed as a side effect of prednisone. That has happened to me three times: once after being treated for a bad case of poison ivy (I thought it was just getting worse, and my dr just said I hadn’t given myself enough time to get over it). The next time was with some sort of steroid inhaler to treat a cough that wouldn’t go away (this time it manifested itself in my hands – itching and hurting to touch – had to cook Thanksgiving dinner with latex gloves on). The final time was to treat the same cough/lung irritation – this time I started itching and broke out in hives all over my body. My dr thought I was crazy and I had to show him pictures to prove what had happened. I’ve made him put “allergy to prednisone “ in big letters on my chart. Won’t be touching that stuff again!
Tricia
Australia
Does the saying “Trust me. I’m a Doctor” come to mind, anyone? We have a lovely GP, and even they can come unstuck in passing on information re: side effects. I had severe gout and was prescribed a steroid to reduce the inflammation (can’t remember now which actual one it was). I was given 100mg/day for 4 or 5 days. On day 3 I was carted off to A&E with atrial fibrillation as a side effect. Needless to say, I won’t be taking that medication again in a hurry, at least not at that strength!
Carol
Kernersville NC
My heart goes out to all those who have the awful side effects from taking prednisone. I am one of the lucky ones who does not experience those side effects. I take prednisone occasionally for rheumatoid arthritis flares or after a bad bout of acute bronchitis coughing. The only real side effect I have is excessive hunger. Prednisone works very well for me, and the difference in my joint pain is like night and day, almost like the RA is completely gone. I wish!
I am now on Xeljanz and have not had a flare or needed to take prednisone. However, Xeljanz can have serious side effects, too. I am hoping some day there will be a drug that works as well as prednisone but with no side effects.
Genevieve R.
Atlanta, GA
After using prednisone off and on for many years due to severe allergies and sinus infections I can only agree with all the side effects mentioned here, but one. I kept getting a yeast infection in my mouth, throat, and esophagus. I will never use it again.
P.
NEW JERSEY
I, too, have experienced the same reactions as others to prednisone. When it has been prescribed by me I want to jump out of my skin because I know that I will become agitated, irritable, unreasonable, and angry. It reminds me very much of the same symptoms I had when I had my period. It makes me completely out of control.
Jerry
NJ
I have heard some very bad things about the side effects of Prednisone. However, I must say I have not experienced any of them. This drug seems to be the only one that I have tried that works to reduce the swelling bumps on my arms and back due to Sarcoidosis. Unfortunately, Prednisone has not eliminated the swelling completely, but has significantly reduced it. Unless I can find something else that works, I will have to stick with it.
Karen
Greenwood Indiana
I have taken 5 mg of prednisone for about twenty years for system lupus to keep my sedimentation rate down. I also have taken plaquenil for close to forty years, also for lupus. I have been grateful for none of the above side effects.
Karen
Los Angeles
I’ve been on prednisone for 10 years for dermatomyositis. That’s not a typo — 10 years. It will be 11 years in June. The longer a person takes prednisone, the more likely it becomes that they cannot come off. I’ve taken doses as high as 60mg, but have lived at 8mg daily for the past few years. I’ve tried several times to come off, but once I drop below 7mg, my autoimmune disease spirals out of control, and I’m back to a mega-high dose and start the slow process of reducing all over again.
Prednisone is a deal with the devil. It saved my life when I was first diagnosed, but it continues to exact a heavy price on other aspects of my health in exchange. Osteoporosis, vertigo, thinned skin, and persistent low-level depression have taken quite a toll on my quality of life.
But I am determined. It took a few months, but I’m down to 7mg once again. I’m enlisting the care of integrated practitioners to help my body successfully make the drop to 6 3/4 mg.
Pat
NC
I was on prednisone for 2 years because of Polymyalgia Rhuematica. It did allow me to function normally, and I have no recollection of any mental problems. I do recall the anxiety involved in weaning off the drug. That was 22 years ago. After about 3 years I started having problems with my right hip. The diagnosis was that the drug had desiccated the hip socket so I had to have a complete hip replacement. Another 3 years later, same diagnosis with the 2nd hip resulting in my second hip replacement. Most recently I had a great deal of problems with my right shoulder. Result is another complete join replacement. Then I started having back problems and, long story short, I have had three back surgeries due to desiccated vertibrae.
No more! I have had it with surgery. I function very well work out 3 times a weeks, walk miles a week with my dog and play golf. I just had the will to continue in spite of adversity. I am to be 79 this year, and my friends call me the “Bionic Woman.”
Bob
SC
This subject should be divided into two different categories: long and short-term usage of prednisone. From our perspective short-term use has had little, if any, side affects with exception of one time when I decided I wasn’t going to finish the prednisone 6 day pack and quit after 3 days. Nothing occurred at that time but months later I was mentally doing some things that made zero sense. I would measure something and the next day find it to be grossly wrong. This side effect only occurred for a short period of time but it was scary.
My wife was put on a low dosage of prednisone for some gastro conditions. After a year she contracted a bad case of shingles which other doctors said was probably due to being on prednisone for such a long period of time, which lowers one’s immune system. One doctor said that this would have been his very last method of treatment for her original condition. The shingles episode caused other issues, and now she has had chronic nerve pain issues for over 8 years. Given the lowering on one’s immune system I would never suggest using prednisone for long periods of time.
roby
chapel hill
I’m sorry to read of the bad experiences of the other posters. For me, prednisone has been a lifesaver. I have polymyalgia rheumatica, and the pain I was suffering was immediately stopped with one 20mg tablet. As it is an auto-immune condition, I’ve been on prednisone for nearly 1 year now, and the only side effect I have is that I’m more hungry than usual. I’m hopeful that I will be able to taper off soon without the polymyalgia returning.
JAK
nj
Fabulous concise, succinct article! Could not find voting for usefulness at top of page on phone. Thank you
LF
USA
Joe, once again, you still need to distinguish between physiologic and pharmacologic doses. Prednisone is also used for adrenal insufficiency and is metabolized to hydrocortisone, which is what one’s own adrenal glands produce, and one would die without it. For people who have difficulty taking hydrocortisone 4x daily, on schedule, prednisone in the physiologic range is a workable alternative. Yes, there are side products, other hormones, produced in the process of being metabolized to hydrocortisone, the desired end product.
I agree it is overused and in often prescribed dose ranges that are WAY above the physiologic range. I had one physician in my area call a 5 mg dose of prednisone “homeopathic”, because he did not understand the chemistry and physiology involved . Therein lies the real problem. Many physicians don’t know how to use steriods properly. It seems that you personally suffered from one of these people.
Instead of frightening people, including physicians, educate them on proper use of steroids. That is beyond the scope of your web site, however, and change needs to be taught in the medical schools.
Susan
Indiana
I am currently on Methylprednisolone after hurting my hip. My doctor suspected Tendonitis. I was in such severe pain that I would try anything at this point. Doctor said that he hated to put me on it but thought it was the best thing for my hip. I could not walk at this point. I am taking the 4mg 7 day decreasing dose. I am only on day 3. I was at work on the end of day 1, and as I was leaving I started sweating and my chest started hurting, and I felt disoriented. I could not go on. The manager called for an ambulance (my 1st ride in an ambulance, and I am almost 65} My heart rate actually scared everyone there including paramedics. My heart rate went from sky high to almost nothing. They inverted me and had me blow as hard as I could without blowing air out. Kind of holding my breath and blowing like I was blowing up my head! I had heard of this if you are alone and feel like you may be having a heart attack. Trust me, it works! My heart rate instantly went back to normal.
I have had a constant dull headache since I have been taking the meds. My doctor said that he hated to put me on this med but did not tell me anything about the side effects except for high blood sugar numbers. Mine has been running 300 daily, and I take three insulins! I am in contact with my diabetic doctor. My hip is very slowly improving but still very painful. I have lost two weeks of work and had to file for FMLA to keep from losing my job. My only advice is to be very aware of the side effects of this medicine.
Gail H.
NC
I have heard no mention of something that is also one of the dangers of Prednisone: It compromises the human immune system, the coat of armor that protects us from all the bacteria and viruses that we come into contact with on a daily basis.
After I finished with “the false sense of energy,” as one respondent termed it, sleeplessness, extreme manic episodes, and highly aching joints, I was left with a severely lowered immune system. I had raised two separate families, and despite nursing all of them, had never had the flu in my life. I was rarely ever sick. However, after taking Prednisone, I suddenly caught the flu, Parvo, and then strep throat, one immediately following the other.
Before my bi-lateral hip replacement surgery in 2014, I explained to the surgeon my severe reaction to prednisone and requested that he NOT give me any steroids. However, despite my request, he must have given them to me anyway. I stayed at home rehabilitating for six weeks and had a marvelously quick and easy recovery. Then my husband and I traveled to our cottage in Canada for the summer. In the first week, I went to a 50th anniversary party with 50-75 people. The next day, I could tell that something was wrong in one of my lungs. Though I did not feel sick, I began to cough. I finally located a Canadian doctor who would see me on a cash basis (without a Canadian Health Card). As is usual, he had me breathe deeply while he listened. He didn’t need a stethoscope to hear the shocking roar that came from my lungs. My husband heard it from the next room! The doctor did not have x-ray equipment and recommended that I go to the emergency room for diagnosis. Since I would have to pay hundreds/thousands of dollars in cash in advance, I hesitated. I got increasingly worse.
After a couple of days, I received a phone call directly from the doctor himself (when does that ever happen in the U.S?!) asking how I was. He said “I’m worried about you. You need to go to the hospital.” I promptly did so and was diagnosed with pneumonia. I developed larnygospasms from all the mucous and could not breathe. One of the doctors had put me on hydrocodone cough syrup, and I also had to deal with paranoia from that after I arrived home. I didn’t want to take any more steroids to “help” me, so I coughed violently for 3 months. It took another 2 months for my ribs to heal. That was the year from hell. All compliments of steroids.
Janice P.
Hell week, number three. Add that to ALL the intermittent doses between February 2018 up to my surgery date for a right total knee replacement.
My husband and I went to Iceland and Amsterdam in February this year. We both had flu shots within 90 days of leaving. I came home sick with a fever, typical flu-like systems and coughing up blood. Saw my GP immediately after returning home. Negative flu and chest xray. Significant wheezing and rhonchi noted with breath sounds. Meds: Prednisone dose pack, Prednisone shot, a cough syrup, as I could not quit coughing, inhalers, nebulizer treatments. Thus, began my road to a nightmare. Since then, I have been plagued with asthma, COPD-like symptoms, and I have no mitigating risk factors, familial or otherwise. Never a smoker and no second hand.
There was an HRCT (high resolution CT scan of the chest) which showed I had what was termed “pulmonary fibrosis”. New pulmonologist suggested maybe I was environmentally exposed to “something”. I have worked in healthcare and surroundings for 40+ years. Why now am I having all these respiratory issues after a case of the flu? Within two weeks of discharge from the hospital for 8 days, I was readmitted in acute respiratory arrest. It appeared I contracted the human pneunometavirus (what a name). Another seven days in. So once I came off the steroids, within two weeks, I could not breathe.
Here it is, after I’m awake at 3 am, shaking, tachycardia, mind scattered, dizzy, and the beat goes on. I am embarrassed at the person I have turned into. It has been so grossly unfair to my husband. I can’t say sorry enough. HE KNOWS THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG.
annie martin
adelaide sa
I ‘ve been on prenisolne for 2 years Im not taking it now but has any one experience migraines humming in head abdominal pain feeling sick shaking? because I have ?I’m better but still experiencing like migraines is there anyone I can ring to talk to professionel
Barb
Hello all. I have just finished a 9-day course of prednisone due to an allergic reaction to a bee sting, and I’m thankful that I’m done. The most challenging side effects have been disorientation, disassociation, and anxiety. If I took the medication in the morning I was fine by the evening. Sleep – forget that! I recommend having your doctor prescribe an anti-anxiety med along w/the medication if you’re so prone. That way at least you can sleep at night.
In the meantime I’m so glad I’m done. Am grateful that my rash is gone, and that I will soon get my sanity back.
Such an odd, weird 9 days – and ones that I choose not to repeat – EVER!
SUE
New Zealand
I am very worried about my mother. She has been on and off prednisone for polymyalgia for several years. Today the Dr. has given her what he calls a “kick start” dose of 20mg which she is to take for a month, and then less for the next month and on and on. I had informed the Dr. previously that she is more mentally alert when off the drug. She has had odd behaviors when on it, and we feel that at 83 she has a level of dementia. So today he prescribed this nightmare drug before even seeing a blood test result. When asked what the side effects are, he said “nothing really.”
I believe my mother is addicted to the false sense of energy that it gives her. She has played Dr. Google and presents to the Dr all the symptoms of the illness. Now this evening, after one pill, she is away with the fairies, talking in a little girl voice. I am alarmed and do not know what to do. Leading up to this latest round she has talked constantly about aches and pains in her legs but when I question her she cannot describe the pain, and I have worked out that it is muscle weakness, which I now know is a side effect of the drug. Anyone reading this who has an elderly parent: stay away from this drug. The consequences can be alarming. I have spoken with a Dr. friend who has said to me that this was lazy Doctoring and an awful clinical decision.
Molly E
NY, NY
I almost lost my 20-year-old daughter to a fast-onset psychotic reaction to prednisone given to her by an oral surgeon. Day 3 of a normal 7-day medpack dose, she started screaming about dying and trying to take her own life, and thus began a nightmare that included 2 forced hospitalizations. It was finally brought to a close by a great psychiatrist and some Depakote. I learned a lot about corticosteroids in the months that I dealt with this, such that I will NEVER take them or allow anyone around me to if I can stop them.
It is unconscionable that they are given out for non-life-threatening swelling or skin irritation, and after watching the incredible distortions to my child’s mind and perception, every time I read about someone who suddenly went off the rails I question whether they had been dosed with this drug in the recent past. Six months after cessation from the drug my child was normal again, and she hasn’t had psych issues since (it’s been 3 years). She stayed on Depakote for 3 months. I can’t say enough good things about Depakote for steroid psychosis, it knocked the wild bipolar mood swings, suicidal ideation, and raging paranoia down within 3 days.
Don’t touch corticosteroids unless your life depends on it. If you have to use them, get someone you trust to watch over you carefully. Based on our experience, if you are having a negative reaction, it will end completely 6 months past your last dose.
Dutch
Pennsylvania
Have been on Prednisone for 3+ years for PMR . Highest amount was 15 mgs. Recently started taper off again. Am currently down from 4-3 mgs for about a week. Seems like every time I try to taper I get terrible GI problems with acid reflux , diarrhea, upper abdominal pain . Yesterday and last night I had upper abdominal pain and reflux. Got only about 3 hours sleep . Anyone else out there with similar complaints ?
Ella
HI
I’m really glad to have found this article. I’ve been on prednisone for 2 weeks now for sudden hearing loss in one ear. My last doctor visit was given another prescription for 2 more weeks to eventually taper off the drug. I am so ready to be off of this drug so, I thought that I would skip tapering off of it. But after reading about side effects others have had without the tapering, I will definitely taper off as prescribed.
The side effects are awful. Difficulty focusing, brain fog, jittery shaky inside feeling. Irritated by things I’m not normally irritated by. Waking up in the middle of the night. I’ve been reading my Bible when that happens. And fall back asleep by the grace of God.
Sara
California
I was prescribed 50mg of prednisone for 10 days not tapered 50mg every day. By day 3 I fell into a deep depression, I couldn’t eat,
I couldn’t sleep, my body was in pain, no motivation to move I laid on my bathroom floor crying. I wanted to end my life, I had a feeling of no escape. I had no idea what was happening to me until I searched side effects of prednisone and realized what it was. I stopped taking it and it took me about 3 weeks to finally return to myself. I still have bouts of anxiety 5 months later after what I had gone through on that medication. Never again!
sarah
nj
I’m a 63 year old female with several auto immune diseases. The worst symptom I’ve experiences was severe flu like feeling without the flu. I’d vomit for days on end, be too weak to stand, violent headaches and pains in muscles and joints. I was also tremulous during these attacks. I’ve been on high dose prednisone, about 40 mgs per dose on and off for 22 years. Without it I would have preferred death because the way I felt was intolerable. It doesn’t work anymore for the pain but it still keeps the flu like symptoms under control. I take it about every 4 days and for me that eliminates the horrible side effects I used to experience when on it daily. I’ve been reading about the theory that Alzheimer’s is primarily caused by inflammation . Have there been any studies of people on long term high dose prednisone? Could it prevent Alzheimer’s?
Ruth
Adairsville Ga
I was put on 20mg twice a day for 4 days. I have very low blood pressure, and I’m very tired,confused and dizzy. I never heard of prednisone for this. I’ve taken it before for rashes from unknown causes and for asthma. I really don’t like it, but it’s only for 4 days.
Melissa
Nova Scotia
I’ve been on prednisone for 3 weeks now for ITP. My dose began at 18 pills every morning (90mg), and starting this week was tapered by 10mg and every week on out to wean myself off.
I’ve had every one of these symptoms covered, and I just wonder if the weight gain/moon face will start to decrease???
I feel like I’m going crazy.
Tiffany
AZ
I was prescribed this for sinus inflammation. While it did get rid of the inflammation within a day the side effects made it not worth it. This is the worst drug I have ever taken in my life. Unless it’s life or death I do NOT recommend taking this. It initially gave me a sense of euphoria, which only lasted a few days, and then I experienced the worst anxiety/depression in my life. I couldn’t cope with anything. I had NO appetite, I lost significant weight in a short period of time. All I could keep down were ensure shakes. I could no longer exercise, I was a very active person prior to taking it. I was scared to be alone. I had suicidal thoughts. My head was always tingling like pins and needles. The worst part was that the nurse that prescribed it to me didn’t inform me of these possible side effects, if she had I wouldn’t have made the choice to take it. It’s been months since I’ve taken it and although I am feeling better it’s been a long road to just feel like myself again. I understand many people say they take it and have no issues and that’s wonderful. BUT people can experience this drug differently and those possible adverse reactions can really mess up your life. There is no drug worth feeling suicidal.
Sue
North Carolina
Diagnosed with pulmonary sarcoidosis in 1991. In 2011, diagnosed with lymphatic sarcoidosis. In September 2017, diagnosed with neurosarcoid and a meningioma. I had taken prednisone and hated it; told pulmonologist I would not take it again unless it was a life-threatening emergency! When diagnosed with neurosarcoid, neurologist put me on 40 mg. I went from 130lbs to 160lbs. I felt like I had a jackhammer inside me because I shook uncontrollably! Couldn’t sleep; my entire head would be drenched with sweat! I am now in withdrawal and still have the same blanking symptoms!!!
I am going to try completely natural supplements that help alleviate inflammation. Trying a popular 8 wk diet program to see if my body will heal itself. Basically organic vegetables and berries; only EEVO. Lots of ph balanced water and organic pomegranate juice. The doctor who invented this diet also recommends yoga. Salmon or organic chicken or soy protein. But prednisone is a devil that I want exorcised from my body forever!!! It appears to do more bad than good! I’m done with it!!!
ANN
Ca
I agree with you, I only took 2 8mg tablets from the first 6 I was suppose to take that day before I had to stop due to my face swelling up…(doctor told me to stop taking it) I’m glad I only took the 2 but I still feel that that little dose made me feel just like us said, it’s gonna be a month and I still feel weird or maybe it’s just my anxiety, I don’t know.
Lori
Pennsylvania
My husband has stage 4 pancreas cancer, diagnosed in nov 2017. Chemo wiped out the cancer in the lungs and the tumor shrunk but his weakness and anemia have gotten worse since chemo stopped. a month ago. He lost alot of weight therefore dr took him off of metroprolol for high blood pressure. Saw cancer dr and we told him his appetite is poor also and he just gets exhausted so quickly. “It’s your body recouping from the cancer, lets give you Megace and Prednisone 10 mg a day for a month and see what happens”.
Second day, appetite great, energy level much better but frightfully so. I am happy but worried that after a month he will have side effects but everyone on here is stating higher doses than 10 mg a day so do you think we have anything to worry about?
Jerry
Fl
I have ITP. I was diagnosed with this about 15 or so years ago now. Just to inform, ITP is a disease where your own immune system basically destroys your platelets. A “normal” platelet count is between 100,000 and 300,000. Mine is consistently below 20,000. My first hematologist was ok with 20,000 and had me on prednisone, 5mg daily, every day and I was fine. I really can’t say I experienced any side effects at all and I did that for about 8 years.
That hematologist left and my next hematologist was ok with a platelet count of 20,000 too. Both had me drawing blood for CBC weekly, but everything was fine. I knew the dangers of a platelet count that low but my life was fine. No peticia just some easy bruising. Well that hematologist also left this particular cancer center and my next hematologist had a fit that my platelet count was down to 20,000. I tried to explain but his God complex kept getting in the way. He wanted me off the prednisone immediately and of course my platelet count bottomed out.
He suggested that I get shots of N-Plates so I figured what the heck, sure. The N-Plates shot would boost my platelet count up to around 200,000. And it would gradually drop every week. If my count was 200,000 then next week it might be 170,000, then the following week, 145,000. Then 101,000 and so in a slow regular decrease. So we could see when to get my next N-Plates shot.
Usually when my count reached about 50,000 then I would get another shot. So I was getting a shot about once every two months and all was good. Then all of a sudden the N-Plates shots would only keep my count up for a couple of weeks, then another shot. It got to the point that I was getting a shot every week. Well when that stuff got built up in my system, I was a zombie. I felt like I was dead.
I had no desire to do anything. I was too weak to stand some days. I told the doctor that I never felt like I wanted to kill myself but I was certain that I did not want to live feeling like this. So we switched to IVIG. No results. Rituxan. No results. Promacta worked but I again felt like I was already in the process of dying as well as hard to breathe and do normal daily activities. Nothing was working to keep my platelet count above 10,000. I kept begging him to try the prednisone again and finally when we were out of options, he did. I started with 50mg daily for one week. My platelet count went to 195,000.
The next week 40mg daily. Platelet count 226,000. Then 30mg, then 20mg and now 15mg daily every day. And my platelet count is still above 100,000. The goal is to get to 5mg a day (imagine that-where I was in the first place) and hopefully my count will still be above 50,000. But over time now with the higher doses of prednisone, I can feel some side effects. Mostly weakness of my muscles and basically my entire body. Some jitters setting in now and then.
I just sort of feel shaky but not actually shaking. Hard to explain. Sorry. So I’m actually kind of stuck with prednisone. It’s the only thing that seems to work for my body and without sounding too dramatic, it’s really the only thing keeping my count high enough to not worry about bleeding out and dying some day. Hopefully my system will keep a high enough platelet count at 5mg a day and hopefully that amount will leave me feeling no side effects like before. Because he already told me that if I need more than 7mg a day our only recourse is chemo drugs with huge side effects. I already told him that isn’t going to happen. I’ll take my chances with the prednisone.
But to everyone out there dealing with prednisone side effects, I feel for you. I can relate and can only hope that you get through whatever your condition is and off the prednisone and back to your normal everyday life. Good luck to all of you.
Lyn
Poconos
I have Giant Cell Arteritis and have been on Prednisone since June 13, 2017. I have sweats and chills still and Bilateral knees replaced on March 1,2018. I have been developing bulges of fat all around my knees that have been getting bigger every day. The pain is terrible. I need to get off Prednisone to help my knees. Diagnosed with Breast Cancer, November 21 2017 and had Bilateral Mastectomies.
Started on methotrexate 5 weeks ago, tapering Prednisone, now on 22mg.
Has anyone ever seen the fat pads around a knee replacement ??
And has anyone continued with sweats and chills??
Bertha M
Merrimac, Ma
Betty from Merrimac ma. Folks I also had the same problem thought I was dying couldn’t breath went to the ER they gave me what I thought was my life back.
It was explaned this is not like the weight lifters use this is different,i went on the 40 for 4 days 30 for 3 days 20 for 3 days 20 for 2 days 10 for 2 days and 10 for 2 days again, HOWEVER in 2 weeks I was feeling bad again and the dr said you cant have a dose yet I tried to function for another month or so and was back in the Emergency What could I do I went to my Dr he said I will give you what you think will work and I said lets try 10 mgs for 1 time each day That I have been doing for 6 months I had had 3 bouts in the ER before this however I am so afraid I will become used to this amount and then what.
Well I had tried to go down 1mg at a time and just could not get through a day and so Now I need help with, something to counteract the side effects of the prednisone we all know our hard luck stories but what has some ( pharmacy research Dr) found to tell us what he feels will be a replacement, that we can start and it will help us get on something that will not have the side effects They have a injection for people who have overdosed on street drugs Or even things like OxyContin drugs etc So folks some one some where needs to help the folks who never would have taken even a aleve without a dr saying it wont hurt you Thanks Betty from Merrimac Ma.
Let’s remember they can put a man on the moon and can’t figure out what to do with prednisone.
JoAnn
Staten Island N.Y
I have systemic lupus and been on prednisone for a long time. I have gotten some of the side effects. Not sleeping. Your supposed to take it before 9:00am in the morning. I sweat like crazy, and I’m always looking for something to eat even though I’m not hungry,and I also get bloated which is water retention. I’ve never gotten any other side effects. In fact, when I get a flare up, prednisone really helps. I don’t like the feeling of the side effects, but if I have to take it I do
Niobe
WA State
I’m here trying to cope with what this drug is doing to my husband. The more comments I read, the more I feel sadness and empathy for the writers and resentment at and anger towards our “care team” and the medical industry/”profession” in general, which pushes lucrative pills in lieu of more intelligence-intense approaches to dealing with biological problems. My husband was prescribed prednisone twice for a severe to profound sudden hearing loss that has intensified twice in a short time. So it’s not apparently helping.
What it’s doing in spades is robbing him of his normal, calm, intelligent personality. It is making him sleepless, exhausted, short-tempered, confused, jittery, fearful of things beyond his control, and more, including physical symptoms like urinating hourly in the night and canine hunger/thirst. He is literally having his normal, calm, mature, “the guy you can rely on” personhood emptied out, which is horrific to witness. This is piled atop coping with the sensory loss that’s making it hard for him to do his job, which heavily relies on that sense. He is only 55. We live very cleanly, never used recreational drugs/smoked/etc., and up till this he was robust, active, and super reliable/calm in a storm.
What makes me the most angry about all of this is that there are genetic/genomic approaches now 20 years old that our “care team” refuses to talk about even conversationally as I try to piece together options or understand the 21st century science of what is happening to him. They are obviously committed to the lucrative pushing of pharmaceuticals within crude HMO algorithms/care flow charts. Never mind what damage it does to those on whose these drugs are being tested, wearing the mask of “health care.” And if we ask the drug to be ended, then we are recorded as “difficult” patients/family who refused their medical care. And who knows what the long-term or after-effects will be?
This is like the Sackler/opioid pandemic all over again. Doctors pushing harmful drugs for profit. I resent the power that this industry has over individuals, holding us and our loved ones hostage with our own vulnerabilities, and using us as lab rats for global elites. I’d much rather they say honestly, “Yeah, we know you’re having this problem, tens or hundreds of millions of people are, we can’t help, but if you want to let us experiment on you with drugs from the 1950s, that would be nice for us and help us publish articles and buy a bigger boat.”
People who cause deliberate harm to others under the guise of “helping” are the worst psychopaths of all. It’s getting harder every day not to conclude that the entire medical industry doesn’t suffer from Munchausen Syndrome By Proxy. The difference is that we just regular people are in fact experiencing health problems, but the medical industry cares less about solving that than their MBAs coming up with a good bottom line, and individuals having lucrative careers pushing pills and trying to keep medicine in the 20th or 19th centuries. This includes the “medical advertising” industry, which in my opinion should have every one of its members taken out and dosed with prednisone and oxycodone till they plotz.
CC
PSL
I applaud you for being so well spoken and telling it like it is to our “Doctors” who are here to help, w/out letting us know of the dangerous side effects. I have actually given up trying to talk to Doctors about side effects, they don’t either believe in them, or just don’t want to know about them. The more the push the drug the bigger the bonus! I’ve lost count how many times I’ve researched side effects from the evil, toxic, devils tic tacs Prednisone. I won’t bore you w/ my long story, only to say, Prednisone has stolen my husband from me. He is not the man I remember from 3 years ago, and our marriage is broken and on shaky ground because of the this evil drug. When I brought this to the Doctors attention, he had the audacity to suggest that I may need valium, when I had suggested for my husband’s ongoing outburst. I could have slapped that ancient old Doctor! I’ve researched this for hours and have found very little to make me feel any better. Although there is a huge connection w/ the adrenal glands, the pred. depleting them of making natural pred. So you may want to read about that. Good luck to you as well, we all need it.
Chris
PA
I was placed on 40mg in the morning for 2 days, 20 for 2 days, and by day 4 I knew I was in trouble.
I have epilepsy but haven’t had a seizure in 8 years. I went entirely blind in my central vision. Just flashing blobs of light. The medicine actually gave me a high and I was cutting it down on this day.
I was entirely alone with my little girl. Could barely see the phone to call 911. My legs and arms were in tremors and I was in a full sweat standing in 30 degree weather for an ambulance.
That was 3 days ago.
I was injected with Ativan, Benadryl, and sedated because I truly could not form a sentence but kept telling everyone I was going to die.
I was released the same day. 3 days on my couch paranoid, confused, and dizzy. I’m afraid to look out the widows. Last night, I woke up screaming because I was paralyzed in my sleep.
Ears are ringing, I can’t make sense of TV, and non stop nightmares.
Never even thought this medicine could do this, so I told the hospital I used to have seizures. Now I look like a nutcase, because I failed to even mention Prednisone.
Why would a nurse in a walk-in clinic give this to someone with seizures? Horrible. I would type more but my head hurts.
Janice
Illinois
I was put on Prednisone for about two weeks, 10 mg. twice a day. I am on Keytruda for state 4 lung cancer, and after about two months of Keytruda I started itching from head to ankles.
Before I started prednisone it was awful; no sleep, and I looked like hell. I had no problems with it, maybe because I was on 20 mg per day, I don’t know. All I know is I started getting some sleep and felt better all the way around. I was so disappointed when my doctor took me off of it. The only thing the Prednisone did not help was my head which is still terribley itchy, more than ever now. I wonder why the Prendisone did not take care of it?
I have bumps, and when I scratch they get bigger. I have welts about four inches long. I’ve tried everything I could think of, everything my skin Doctor thought of, and here I am feeling like someone is pulling lightly on one strand of hair in every section of my head. I have to admit it was worse on my body before the prednisone but this will not let me rest either. Anybody else ever have this?
Mike
This drug didn’t do anything for my sinuses. This drug gave me nasty side effects like anxiety and insomnia on top of my sinuses still being inflamed. Also, my face puffed up, and the doctors said it’s irreversible.
Jack
Pocono's PA
Developed excruciating shoulder and hip pain within a few weeks of taking Zitea. Stopped taking it but symptoms continued to increase.
Called my PCP 3 times, twice asking for prednisone. I’ve never taken it but something told me I needed something like that. NSAIDS or oxycodone just weren’t going to touch this much pain so spread out in my body. I was told to see a rheumatologist but knowing I couldn’t wait months to see one I went to the quickie clinic at my local hospital and after pleading my case they willing put me on a tapered dosage schedule til I could get to my appointment.
It worked wonders, allowing me to not only sleep for the first time in 6 weeks because I wasn’t crying out in pain in the middle of the night but getting my mobility back. Now I’m on 12.5 a day waiting on my temperal artery test to come back to decide next dosage to stay on for PMR but I plan on asking about Actemra.
Anna
Ohio
My Mom has been on prednisone for 20 years . Her face puffed up on a lower dose it stopped being puffy. Have hope!
Nancy
Ohio
I’ve been hospitalized three times in my life for asthma exacerbations. I’d be started on IV Solu-Medrol then transitioned to oral prednisone. I had the usual symptoms–insomnia, hair-trigger temper, constant hunger, racing heart, shaking and weakness. The third time, five years ago, was the worst, though, and different. I remember it like it happened yesterday. Instead of insomnia, I was tired all the time and would sleep 10-12 hours at night. I sweated so much that I couldn’t keep my hair dry; sweat would just run down my face and neck. This went on for weeks after I was totally off the drug. But the worst–the very worst–were the foot cramps. They would occur out of the blue. My toes would involuntarily cross over each other. I would scream and cry in gut-wrenching sobs from the pain. I wasn’t given taper instructions but remembered how it was done from the last two times, and I tapered myself off. Every inch of my skin hurt but as I took less prednisone, that went away. I have since been on a few courses of prednisone at much lower doses for much less time and I will get mild muscle cramps, not always in the feet.
Margo
Calgary
I thought I was the only one with foot cramps, thanks for letting me know I am not crazy.
patricia
The cramping feet! how do you get it to stop? Is there a vitamin or anything else to help
Annette
Canada
I get foot and leg cramps often (not prednisone-related, but due to neuropathy), and a dose of magnesium brings almost immediate relief. One of the side effects of pred is potassium loss, and I suspect that might be the culprit. So I take potassium supplements too.
Adelaide
ME
I have psoriasis and was put on 20 mg of prednisone for bronchitis. I then broke out all over with a very bad case of psoriasis. I am being tapered off. My question is: why was I put on prednisone if it is known to make it flare up uncontrollably. I was not told it would do this. It was on my doctor’s record that I had psoriasis but they gave it to me anyway.
Oliver
New Zealand
I was admitted to hospital some seveteen years ago for acute asthma and, since the health system in New Zealand is basically in chaos, one is shoved in and shoved out as quickly as possible. I was given two massive injected doses of prednisone. I have since then suffered from very high blood pressure which the doctor is finding very hard to control. Prior to this episode I had low blood pressure. I also suffer acute anxiety attacks for no reason. During the period I was on the drugs orally after release from hospital I suffered almost bi-polar mood swings and still do.
My advice is: if at all possible avoid steroids. No one tells you what may happen long-term and the horrors when actually on the drug.
linda
canada
i was given 70 mg prednisone a day for eight days for bell’s palsy.
there was no tapering off.
48 days after my last dose and i am still experiencing severe itching at night to the extent that it can be impossible to sleep sometimes.
occasionally i experience feelings of anxiety for no apparent reason. these seem to be less often now and i initially attributed it to lack of sleep but having researched realise the prednisone would seem to be the cause.
my energy levels are still low and again i am not sure if this is due to lack of sleep or the lingering effects of the prednisone.
in the future the only time i will comply with a doctor’s advice to take prednisone is if my life depends on it.
Marge
NC
Thank you for your warning.
Jeny
Colorado
Prednisone is killing me. I’ve been on it for 5 yrs. Omg! My life has not been the same. I haven’t slept in so long I don’t know what a goodnight means. Know one told me I would suffer this way. They gave me this because they thought I had Giant. Cell Aritis. Well they were wrong. After two temple biopsies I was cleared of that. My eyees have suffered I have Glaucoma now. I’m 58 yrs old but I feel like a hundred yrs old and dying every day. I would rather be blind then to deal with these HORRIBLE HORRIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. The doctors are very cruel for not giving me information on Prednisone being that I started at 100 mgs. Now I’m just trying to make it through a day. Because I don’t sleep anymore.
Peggy
New Mexico
Diagnosed with bronchitis, I was prescribed this horrible drug with no information shared about its intensity.
After 5 days I stopped because I was riding a crazy train. It is alarming that a seemingly intelligent ER doc shared nothing. My heart rate has been pounding. She knew I had arrhythmia.
This has been one of the top bad med experiences in life, and I’ve had some serious experiences. I’m just waiting for some quality of life to return so I can just deal with bronchitis and not this alarming LSD trip.
Bonnie
WA
Hi, I know How you feel, I was put on 60 mg of prednisone last March 2017 because they thought I had temporal arterites also. Had 2 biopsies also, and the drs were also wrong. I have Waldenstroms, a type of Hodgkins lymphoma. Have had 4 infusions for that. My last checkup looked good. It is not fatal but not curable. I was weaned off of 60 mg twice and am now on 2.5 every other day. I have severe muscle and bone pain all the time. The drs say it is because of the prednisone. Am trying to find out what I can do or take for this. Tylenol and Ibuprofen and 1 Claritin that was recommended have not helped.
Linda
VA
My husband is on 50 mg of Prednisone daily. He takes this every day for 6 -18 months. He will be taking Cyclophosphamide 150 mg every other month with the Prednisone (chemo) until he goes into remission. He has been on the Prednisone for 3 weeks and he has a hard time sleeping and gets jittery at times. All this information is scary. I will post and let you all know how this goes. He has Memberous GN. Linda from Virginia
Susan
ME
My husband had been taking prednisone for PRM (poly rheumatic myalgia) and had tapered from 15mg to 3mg per day. Then he suddenly started feeling like he had a sinus infection plus his leg ached. He was given an antibiotic but the symptoms persisted and all of a sudden he had a terrible headache and then double vision. We were away on a trip but came right home and after a call to the opthomologist he was advised to go straight to emergency. They tested him for stroke etc and discovered he had giant cell arteritis which left untreated would cause blindness. Evidently the use of prednisone lowers the body’s ability to fight off infection and the rheumatologist said that’s what caused the eye problem. He was put on 55mg and began to show major confusion and hyper activity to the point I was very scared and worried for his safety.
We went to the doc day before yesterday and she lowered his dose to 30mgs starting immediately and tapering to 20mgs over the next 20 days. She also called back after his urine and blood tests and said he needed to drink a LOT OF WATER…..8 glasses a day. I’m praying.
Jireh J.J
I was given 5mg prednisolone and was advised to take 4 pills at a go (20mg) each day for seven days for my knee injury.
I’m experiencing unexplained stomach ache with mild diarrhoea during and after completing the course.
I’m also experiencing muscle weakness and slight confusions.
I’m just hoping my stomach ache will get better and am also quite worried whether I have to report the case at the hospital again.
I was also worried whether the 4th pill was too much for my system.
What do I do. I wish I had known all these things before taking the drug.
Please help
GENIEB
N.c.
I have taken PREDNISONE and a Z Pack for bad colds…..I have Asthma….respiratory problems….and PREDNISONE has been a life saver. Also, now I have osteoarthritis and find PREDNISONE helps with joint pain….
PRTDNISONE HAS GIVEN ME MY LIFE BACK. Hope this helps.
Jan
Ontario
It is a very difficult drug to deal with. I had never been on it, even for really bad psoriatic arthritis. Then my breathing got bad, got night sweats plus swollen neck nodes. Biopsy discovered Sarcoidosis of the Lungs, and I was put on prednisone, 40mg a day for 2 months. I got the whole 9 yards: Moon face, big belly, and eating all day and night; bouncing off the walls. Finally tapered it down and went off it. Now I take way lower doses, 5-10 mg a day, when needed for chronic pain. I basically monitor myself! Whatever.
Gayle
Ontario
Started 40mg prednisne 8 pills once daily for 5 days then stop with amoxicillon &clavulanic acid twice daily 7 days plusspiriva18mg daily for real bad cold and slight copd.im worried about all these interacting.been on all three days.any info is so welcome i am 76 thanks
dzor
Texas
On Tuesday, January 9th I was given one 10 mg injection of the long acting steroid dexamethasone (along with an antibiotic injection) in the ER. I went there when I had the flu, felt like I was having trouble breathing and thought I might have bronchitis. Couldn’t get in to my regular doctor because they were swamped with flu patients. I was also given 3 prescriptions (a steroid, an antibiotic and an inhaler) to have filled when I left the ER. I didn’t have fever, was now breathing OK and after googling the steroid they prescribed, I decided not to get the prescriptions. By the end of the week I thought I was over the flu and Friday evening I cleaned up the house and disinfected surfaces for when my grandkids come over Sat. morning. After cleaning, I started feeling weak and shaky. The next morning I was even more weak and shaky. I thought that I must not be over the flu after all. Days later, I’m still feeling weak, shaky, no appetite, chills and then I’m hit with this sudden, horrible anxiety, heart palpitations and have tingling in my feet and hands. I’ve never had anxiety before in my life, why would I now? These were not flu symptoms. I start googling and that’s when I realized it was the steroid injection. I got in to see my doctor and was surprised that he agreed with me. He said with an injection, it’s hard to control how much is absorbed into your system. I told him I had been drinking a lot of water to flush it out, but he said that wouldn’t get rid of it. Since it is a long acting steroid, it could take months. Though I never have before, the last few weeks I have also had high blood pressure and a high heart rate. I am now at week 5 after the steroid injection. Some days I feel OK, but many days, not. I never know when the anxiety will hit and some times its like a panic attack. I want to feel like myself again, but wonder if I ever will. l will never take another steroid again! I think that I was over treated in the ER based on my symptoms (no fever, 97.5 blood oxygen). I was only told that the injections would make me feel better -no mention of any side effects.
John
Connecticut
I was put on 40mg for four days, no taper, due to an acute asthma exacerbation (ever had one in my life). I didn’t question the dosage because I don’t recall ever having taken prednisone before, and trusted the doctor! It has been almost one full week since my last dose, and I still feel like crap. I’m still fatigued, slight anxiety (anxiety was through the roof initially), poor blood flow, excessive urination, etc. I will avoid prednisone at all costs in the future.
Erica
Ohio
John, I am so sorry you are dealing with this. I’m going through a similar situation. I have asthma and was not feeling well. I ended up having an asthma attack and went to the ER. They placed me on 60mg of Prednisone on Sat. By Monday I still was not feeling the greatest and went to my family doctor. She gave me an injection of Prednisone even though I did not have a fever and she said I was not wheezing. I just kept feeling short of breath. She then told me to continue the 60mg of Prednisone the following day. By Tuesday night was an emotional mess. I couldn’t breathe, I was crying, shaking and having awful anxiety. I went to the doctor again on Wed and the older doctor I saw had me taper from 60mg, 30, 20, and 10mg. I took my last dose Feb 16. It will be 5 weeks Friday since my last dose. I have had the worst anxiety, depression, feeling weak, shortness of breath, stomach issues, and loss of appetite. I am not going to say I was completely “normal” before this. I have strugggled over the years with mild depression and what I thought was anxiety. Nothing has compared to what I have experienced since going on this medicine. My NP started me on Prozac and have Lorazapin as needed. I’m going to see a therapist tomorrow. I am starting to feel better, but am so scared about what happened. I just want to feel back to myself. How are you doing now?
LieskeV
New
My doctor put me on Prednisone 50mg a day for 3-5 days for asthma and then said to stop. Previous doctors have had me taper off slowly. Now I am on day 4, and my blood pressure has soared, and I am shaking like a leaf. After reading this I will definitely taper down with my next dose rather than stopping. Thank you. This was very useful.
joyce
Maryland
I had severe acute bronchitis. I was put on Prednisone 50mg daily for 4 days and then nothing. I am a nurse and should have asked about tapering doses. However, I didn’t think a short time dosing would have bad side effects. Boy, was I wrong. 1 day after stopping this med I started getting panic attack, being off balance, vertigo. Mood swings. I would get depressed because I couldn’t start a new task, much less my regular duties. I am now waiting and hoping these side effects wear off over the weekend. I can’t work if I can’t walk far. There should be a better warning about this med when prescribed by any doctor.
Andrea
May I ask how you are doing now? If so, may I ask how long after taking your last dose it took for you to feel back to normal. You perfectly described exactly what my husband is currently going through. We would like to know if there is going to be light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you….
Oliver
I have just posted my experience(27/2) and hate to be the bearer of bad news but it has been seventeen years for me suffering after-effects. I was a relatively healthy person for for all my life until prednisone took that away .
Jack
After two days on prednisone I had to stop, otherwise I would have lost my job. I had too many side effects to list and were worse than the condition I was taking it for, to clear up ( a Severe sinus infection ) Took me almost two weeks for my body to get back to normal after taking this for just two days. Scary stuff is all I can say.
Bethany
Taree
I had prednisone when i got my wisdom teeth out. Two 5g, twice daily. I stopped after one week and have felt weak and pained muscles, euphoria, irritability, sad and just cried for a while, tired, stomach pain and missed my period. I’ve also had prednisone for an allergic reaction but only one tablet. This time around the mental side effects have really sucked! I wish i didn’t take them and hope i get the old me back again! Soon!
Sarah
South Australia
My daughter (now eight) was given 5mg daily until they could diagnose what was wrong. Her inflammation levels, white cells etc were high. After eight months, many operations and scans later, she was diagnosed with systemic onset idiopathic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Today will be the first day with no steroids. Yesterday she had her last day of 1mg.
Since she has been weaning from this horrible, disgusting drug, she has been seeing and hearing ‘ghosts and angels’. Some have terrified her, some don’t. She also has muscle spasms, and one really attacks her throat for some reason.
I am glad she is almost off them, but the withdrawal symptoms etc are horrific. The pain she is experiencing is breaking my heart. Last night she told me she didn’t want to stop her last bit of steroids, because she’s hurting so much.
I don’t know how long these withdrawals are going to last, and this year she is finally going to be going back to school, even if it’s in her wheelchair. The school have made a special class downstairs so she can go (all grade three are upstair classes).
I hope and pray she gets over these terrible symptoms in the next few weeks, though I have been told the withdrawals can last as long as she’s been on the steroid.
Please, please don’t be 13 months. My daughter has suffered enough!
Chris
Wi
What’s worse? A short course of 20 mg prednisone for 5 days or a round of antibiotics?
ruth
lockport ny
U have been on Predisone ”on and off for 7 years. I now have Lychen planus..It’s the worst Autoimmune Disease. It’s a rash ”that affects my whole body. I’ve tried everything on the market. I really didn’t wanna take predisone to get rid of it”cause it will just come back afterwards. Please can someone offer some enlightment about this dsease”that is caused from takng to much predisone.
Jeff
WA
I have taken pzone for years for asthma with minimal side effects. In my opinion, everyone reacts differently to this med. In general, it’s best to take the smallest dose that provides relief. Also, this med stays in your system for more than 24 hrs and will build up over time. That said, taking more that 20mg per day for several days in a row will most likely cause bad side effects in most people. Taking 60mg in one day would keep me up for 2 days. Taking 60mg for several days in a row is a sure way to have big problems. I take it as a last resort, typically at the point of not being able to speak due to shortness of breath.
I start with 10mg or 20mg the first day or two then I drop the dose to 10mg per day for a few days and then 5mg per day.
Linda
TX
I’ve been on prednisone for three months due to giant cell arteritis. Down to 34 mg after starting at 60 mg. I developed blood clots in one leg three weeks ago. My doctor said it was not from the Prednisone or the GCA. I would like to see the research that connects Prednisone to blood clots if you could post that for me and others in the same situation. Now I am on Xarelto as well.
I was reading your article because I have also developed extreme irritability and some depression. I can’t stop the Prednisone because of course the risks associated with GCA are too severe. I hate the thought of adding another medication, but I am not very much fun to live with at this point! Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Angel
CA
My son is a 10 year heart-lung transplant survivor. He has been on Prednisone since Aug 2010. Over the last 12 months he has 2 episodes of very aggressive violent behavior toward me. This came on suddenly and out of no where. The first time he slapped me several times in the face and was totally out of control. A few days ago he beat me with both an open hand and closed fist while forcing me to fall. He had a sudden outburst of angry rage verbally that was unbelievable. He then walked away as if nothing had happened. This is very out of characteristic for him. I have severe bruising from head to ankle.
His doctors have played with his dosage of Prednisone while trying to lower it to “record” lower levels for lung transplant patients. Without Prednisone we have been told he will die of complications. He takes Prograf to prevent rejection along with 30 other medications daily. His transplant doctor changed his Prednisone to 5mgs every other day and 2.5 in between. That happened just a couple of months ago. I am seeing some additional changes as well. He will suddenly jump up from his chair, take 4 or 5 pacing steps and then stretch his arms out. He had been on 5mgs for 9 years every day since surgery. Given there are so few lung/heart-lung survivors everything doctors do is an experiment.
Not once in the last 10 years has any medical person advised us of these types of side effects possibly happening. I am floored and have no place to turn. If I report this to anyone in an effort to get him help, he will likely be arrested or put in a mental facility. Neither of which will address “Prednisone” reactions. I desperately need help and do not believe it will come from the transplant team. Their NP’s told him to make this abrupt change. 50% or more of Heart/Lung patients do not live to 10 years. He is a great guy and has much he wants to do with his life. It took us 36 years to finally get his transplant. If the ER doctor who recently wrote in during Dec reads this I would appreciate hearing from you. This isn’t the life we had planned. I have spent my entire adult life trying to save his life.
Lisa
MA
Thanks for your thoughts on this. I’ve had a sinus infection since the end of Nov. (good times) despite a lot of OTC BS, then 7 meds for everything, now 2-prednisone and a traditional antiB. Currently, I’m on 20mg on a schedule of 3times/3 days, 2times/3days. . .. I’m on my 1st day of 2.
I suggest you guzzle water as if a camel in a dry Saharan desert. It leaves a metallic, sickening taste in the mouth. This helps. Eat something with it, even if only crackers.
That said, sinus infections, which I seem to get a lot (too much) are heinous. I have the psych. symptoms discussed here. It probably doesn’t help when one’s head feels like it’s filled with rocks, all one can muster is sleep.
It’s no wonder I’ve morphed into a cranky old man. Additionally, I have MDD, as well as panic disorder, so this mixture does not play well with others.
My advice is feel better first. Keep your pillow elevated. Drink water, and if you can drive, get Pineapple Juice; the bromelian is helpful. IMA try to take my own advice, since I am and have felt irritable, pod, put out. Yuck.
I hope you all feel better.
I’m open to advice, as well.
TY again.
Jeremiah
FL
Was given a shot and the 21 tapered pack for acute bronchitis. Day 4 and it’s driving me mad. Insomnia, agitation, disorientation, ringing in the ears like a jet engine. I want to get off this crazy ride…..
Gloria P
Pennsylvania
I just want to no if you stop the prednisone how long does it take to be normal and not angry.
Andreya
CA
When I had taken Prednisone in the past it would make me very anxious and unable to focus. I hated the feeling so I began to tell my doctor I was allergic to it. Fast forward to 2 months ago, and I am dealing with severe neck and back issues. My doctor tells me I need to take the prednisone or risk permanent nerve damage. So I take it for 2 weeks, along with my anxiety medication. To my surprise, I diidn’t feel as bad on it this time other than gaining 10 pounds.
Then I weaned off it, and the hell began. My anxiety has never been this bad in all the 20 years I’ve dealt with it. I feel like I can’t breathe, everything hurts, I have zero energy or desire to do anything. This has been going on for over a month, and it’s not letting up at all. I wish I never would have taken those pills. I feel like my life is ruined. I just keep praying this will get better soon.
Mack
I weaned off Prednisone oral 60mg over 7 months last year. When I hit 15mg the anxiety and depression hit. Bad. I am now on antidepressants and Xanax. Better but mornings are horrible. It has been a year since I tapered to zero. Beware of long term high dose use of this drug.
Lena
Hawaii
Im proud of all of you for getting off of the prednisone! Most people don’t do that and the side effects are brutal. My mom was just given 3 tablets for a cough! So I was livid and found this site, wondering how long she’s going to have it in her system. She only thankfully took one tablet and threw the others away. She felt forced by the pharmacy to take it. They were like drill sergeants she said. So here’s my story and why I was so MAD!
I went through steroid psychosis 2 years ago from it after thinking it was an antibiotic for a rash that was actually an allergic reaction to another medication I had taken. I was only on it for 7 days but ended up in the ER, was pumped with the highest ¨safe¨ dosage then was crazy for the next month in my own la la land since I had insomnia, hallucinations, panic attacks etc. Thank goodness I wasn’t suicidal! Thats a common side effect too. It is a deal with the Devil! Oh yeah, he was in my hallucinations too!
Robin
TX
Prednisone: is a steroid which turns your immune system off. We use it in medicine if your immune system is causing your symptoms. For instance in Asthma. Asthma is really just an allergic reaction to whatever, cats, pollen, antibiotics, fish, etc. People who have allergies basically have extra hyperactive immune systems, ie their immune systems are too good! Their immune systems notice everything that is not “the self” and it turns on and sends out massive amounts of mast cells, and T-cells and cytokines etc.
All of those cells and particles run to the site of the allergen…if its something you inhaled then you get asthma. Asthma is nothing more than all of those immune cells running to the lung tissue…so much so that it causes congestion and swelling within the tissue and it literally swells the airways shut and then you could die…So we have to give you prednisone to turn off your immune system and tell it to cut it out and go back to its dormant state. The prednisone works almost immediately and if not we can use epinephrine (and by the way both of these hormones are made naturally by your adrenal glands which sit on top of your kidneys.)
So in my many years of practicing ER Medicine I have seen many other doctors and especially Physician Assistants and Nurses inappropriately use Prednisone. If your body’s immune system is not causing the problem then there is no reason to turn off the immune system…especially if you are fighting an upper respiratory problem that could very well be caused by a virus. Viruses do not respond to antibiotics, antibiotics only work to kill bacteria. Viruses are not alive so they can not be killed, only disassembled or blocked so to speak. So if you had a viral pneumonia then the only thing that is going to save you is your immune system..but if it is turned off by inappropriate use of prednisone then you are now in serious trouble.
My point is… unless your airway is closing up on you and you can not breath or there is some sort of swelling “caused by your immune system” which is pressing on something and it will shut down the flow of blood to an organ and cause to stop working …then you don’t need prednisone. Yes there are many neurologic injuries which cause nerve swelling due to the immune system trying to go down there and repair the injury. If the nerve, let use the spinal cord, is trapped in a bony cage like the vertebral column, then it is trapped in there and has no where to go when it swells so it swells up against the bones and then the bones and especially pointy edges embed in the cord and cause a lot of the time irreparable damage…yes you would use a steroid because the alternative is paralysis.
ie with Asthma, yes you would you prednisone because not breathing causes death. But you stop as soon as the problem is gone. Sometimes peoples immune systems are so hyper they keep attacking the self…ie lupus and it will say attack the hip joints, skin eyes, many areas at once and the pain and destruction is so debilitating we have to use prednisone for a long time in hopes of resetting the immune system. Most of the time unfortunately it can not be reset and they will have to stay on prednisone with all of the side effects.
But if you just have your run of the mill cold, flu, sinus infection..don’t do it, its inappropriate and the Texas Medical Board is finally coming down on the ones who use this drug and they have no concept as to why or how it works. Nurses and PA’s don’t get the physiology training doctors do, so they are usually prescribing it to everyone with an upper respiratory infection because they saw a doctor do it. Well maybe the doctor gave it to a person who had an upper respiratory bacterial pneumonia and who was a know hyperactive asthmatic and they were trying to avoid any form of asthma until the pt was over the lung infection. I will say a lot of the symptoms some of you describe could be caused by your actual illness and not the prednisone. A lot of viral illnesses cause arthritis, especially in the rib cage and back areas and it can take 6 weeks to clear all of those antagen-antibody complexes out of the joints..the joints are not very vascular in the first place so it takes a long time to clear out the pieces of the stuff your immune system attached to and disassembled of killed…kind of like sludge of sand particles in your joints. When they look at it under a scope they can see it is your own antibodies from your immune system attached to what ever it just attacked. Hope this helps.
Prednisone is a double edged sword…only use it it you have to, as a last resort to stop the body from harming itself.
Sinusitis – the very best treatment is irrigation. This will cure sinusitis faster then antibiotics. Go to Walmart and by one of those clear plastic containers for Mustard or ketchup (looking for the pointy cap on the end) put 2 heaping tablespoons of regular table salt in the bottle and fill with hot water and shake until salt is dissolved and water is warm not hot…lean over the sink, put it in one nostril and squirt, BUT YOU WILL BLOW THE SALT WATER OUT OF THE OTHER NOSTRIL…you can do it…you will automatically lift your back palate…to shut of the back of your nose, just like you do when you jump in a pool. (by the way if you have ever gotten water in your nose when in a swimming pool the reason it hurts if because there is no salt in it…so don’t worry about putting too much salt in the bottle but do make sure it is dissolved otherwise it would be like putting sand up your nose. Use the entire bottle on one side, then mix up another bottle and do the other nostril..do this twice a day….you will feel so much better…If you are prone to sinus infections its because you have more nooks and crannies in your sinuses than normal and you don’t clear out the debris naturally…so you in particular will benefit substantially by nasal irrigation at least twice a month. You will see a substantial reduction in the sinusitis infections. Hope this helps. Excuse any misspellings etc I wrote this while being on hold with American Airlines listening to their terrible recording and some screeching noise they call music…
Beth
TX
Excellent response!
Christine
California
Avascular necrosis does not only affect the hips. I have had a shoulder and knee replacement with another knee replacement scheduled for this month. All of this was caused by long term prednisone use.
Melissa B
MA
Wow, thank you for that incredibly thoughtful reply. I’m going to try this; in fact I did try something similar with a long Gatorade bottle, weirdly ~ an instinct. I didn’t use that much salt, though.
Annette
I’m not sure of my dosage – pill bottle is in the other room. and I’m too lazy to go get it. It’s Friday evening, and I’ve been taking one pill every 12 hours or so since Wednesday evening, prescribed for a sinus issue. Yesterday I found myself crying while doing the dishes. Today I don’t feel any better. I don’t feel like myself. I’ve been depressed before but this is a whole new level. On the plus side, my sinuses are already clearing up, but I’ve still got three more days of prednisone to go. I’m scared to keep taking it. I don’t know if it’s worth it. My doc didn’t warn me about any side effects, but when I went to the pharmacy, the tech said “have you been on this before? It’ll make you pretty jittery so don’t take it too late, and make sure you take it with a meal or snack.” That’s it. No warning for depression. I had no clue what I was getting myself into and it came on almost instantly. Crazy. Absolutely crazy.
Patty
Vermont
I was on predizone for two years because polymialgia rhumatica…within the first 24 hours i finally felt releif from the terrible joint pain i had been in for so long!! What a releif!! My wonderful doctor check me every 3 months or so to make sure everything was going well. I was tapered off it slowly and the only side affects i had were slight swollen face and small amout of hair loss… all worth it.
But yes…do not want to be on any drug for ever.
Scott
Las Vegas
My experience has been different but am concerned about repeated use. The past few years I have been prescribed various dosages of prednisone and methylprednisolone for pneumonia, asthma, pain, stenosis and hives.
I always feel significantly better during treatment. In fact I mentioned that on methylprednisolone I am euphoric and even feel taller. I mentioned this and my doctor said that it could be my adrenal glands are depleted. I’ve tried to follow up on this but new doctors say I have too many other things to deal with first. Has anyone else heard of this?
Stephanie
Virginia
I was on a 14 day course of prednisone for vertigo. Not sure even why my ENT doctor prescribed it. I took it unknowingly and have had terrible withdrawal symptoms for 10 days now. Luckily, they are getting better but I’m still shaky, weak, nauseous, have no appetite, and lightheaded. I feel like I can’t function. I just want to know when this is going to end because I can’t take it anymore. I don’t feel like myself.
Frank
Virginia
I have been on a short-term course of Prednisone for severe back pain. I’ve done the same regimen about three years ago. (3 days, 60 mg, 3 days, 40 mg., 3 days, 20 mg, 4 days, 10 mg). On the earlier occasion, on about day 10, I became cranky and argumentative–got into a verbal altercation in a local store over a minor incident–way out of character. My doctor had me stop the medication altogether. I had no further symptoms, and the situation quickly returned to normal.
This time it’s different. I’m experiencing back pain in the center of my shoulder blades (different from the original problem/location)–severe, enough to make me became sweaty and nauseous. Also terrible indigestion. But I’ve had the exact same array symptoms at other times over my lifetime, and I’m not sure whether this is a coincidence. Also, I did not experience the personality change that happened about three years ago.
Today, I’m down to the 10 mg./day stage, but I am becoming increasingly concerned about dropping from 10 mg to 0 three days hence. I may post here again at that point.
Rita
New York
Frank, your back symptoms and their change and movement, along with the nausea, could be your gall bladder. I had stomach problems my whole life & GI series turned up normal. Years on it became my back-between my shoulders-in other areas etc. The last night my back was in agony between my shoulders, and I was really nauseous. I walked around the block, gagging every few feet and was in the ER at 7am. I had an inflamed Gall bladder and had it removed. The surgeon told me the pain was from stones that would either pass or turn to sand so tests didn’t diagnose it but your symptoms sound exactly as mine were. Best of luck to you, Frank.
Linda
14202
My story is just a little more odd than most I have read because I was given only 2 mg of prednisone to try to control pain joint pain that i am still working with my doc to find an answer to. I made a point of telling him that I am extremely sensitive to all medications and that baby doses are all I will ever consider of any drug. The pain became unbearable. He put me on a 2 mg dose for three days, with a very long slow taper. After day two, I found myself writing emails to family members telling them I hated them, I told my best friend I would be unavailable for the next few months. I am quite literally going insane. Now to top that off, the pain is far, far, far worse than it was just 2 days ago. I cannot put any weight on my wrists without screaming in pain. I have welts on my shins. I have a headache that would kill a horse. The bottom half of my vision is simply gone. My neck is stiff. My hands and feet feel like they are on fire, my face is hot to the touch. I’m afraid to move and am certainly afraid to interact with anybody as my level of rage is in uncharted territories. I have no appetite. I have a sore throat and swollen glands. I am exhausted yet shaking from the inside out in a way I can’t even describe. TWO MILLIGRAMS. TWO. Absolutely the worst medication I have ever experienced and now I have to go through a taper of it on top of that because going cold turkey is worse? Wow. Unless your life absolutely depends on this medication stay as far away from this devil as you can. And yes, I am suicidal as well. From 2 milligrams. Oh did I mention the uncontrolled crying jags? Stay far away unless this drug is your ONLY life saving option.
Tatiana
United States
I’m currently taking Prednisone- 2 tablets a day for 5 days because of a sudden asthma attack. The last time I had the same dose and medication was last year for an acute bout of an ear infection. And, both times prescribed, my hearing has gone off-key to a lower key. So, music and sounds are a note deeper than they should be and for me, it’s very disorienting. I hate the stuff. I even fretted about the medication in the doctor’s office yesterday but my doctor and the pharmacist were adamant about me using it. Can’t mankind make something that doesn’t affect the senses so dramatically???
RON
Pennsylvania
Have been on methylprednisolone 4 mg for 4 years and now have full blown cataracts and glaucoma. I have been telling my doc for the last 2 years that my eyes are getting fogged, and he said well we will cut it down a bit. Never said that this could happen. Can hardly see anything. Need surgery and laser surgery.
Amber
New York
I was diagnosed with pneumonia 8 days ago and started antibiotics the same day. Was told it most likely would take anywhere from weeks to months to feel completely healed but that the cough and trouble breathing should start getting better after 1-3 days on antibiotics. 2 days ago my cough got worse and my chest hurt when breathing, I’d get winded just walking and I had a headache. Later that night I started getting chills, dizziness and my temp went from 102.6-104.3 in 2 hrs and while on Tylenol and ibuprofen. My husband called an ambulance after I lost consciousness due to not being able to breathe well… was in the ER for 24 hrs, they gave me IV fluids/antibiotics and my first dose of prednisone an hour before discharge, with a 10 day script of 50mg daily and some breathing treatments.. last night I couldn’t fall asleep even tho I was exhausted from barely sleeping at hospital, my heart was racing but my fever had spiked again so I thought it was that until I looked up prednisone side effects.. I’ve had no appetite today and felt really off, nausea started 2 hrs after taking morning dose and it’s got worse to where if I stand up I gag or puke. After reading this article and comments, I don’t even want to continue the course of this drug! I’m a young mom of 3 young kids and I babysit during the week so I need to be healthy yes but the side effects listed are awful! Most likely going to start tapering bc the ER dr didn’t only fail to tell me about side effects, but didn’t mention withdrawals or recommend tapering. I’ll just pray the antibiotics and breathing treatments clear my chest… I don’t need to add issues bc of this ridiculous drug.
Tena
I’m having a difficult time imagining why my doctor prescribed 60mg of prednisone for me to take three days in a row. I’m 4’ 11” and was in the ER last night from the side effects. I didn’t take any today, but I’m flushed, anxious, feels like my BP is high.
All I needed was something for an allergic reaction to insect bites.
I’m going to Walgreens to have my BP checked.
Omar
Rd
THIS MEDICATION KILL YOU SLOWLY
I use this medicine to treat sinusitis and not cure it. I was on the verge of death because this medicine suppresses your own immune system, so its kill you slowly. Thaks to God that im intelligent and stop using it and begin to drink natural veggies and fruits juices to heal my inmune system again.
Shenille
Yorkton, Canada
I was prescribed Prednisone a few days ago when part of my upper lip swelled immensely. No known allergies. This has happened to me before. The dr visit was the usual, sent me home with prednisone 40 mg to take for 3 days. which as far as I could tell did nothing so far. I took it out of desperation earlier , never again. One minute I was getting ready to go out and the next waking up over 3 hours later. Last memory I had I was getting ready to go out. What was up with that? So confused I passed right out. This med is the devil the side effects I read can happen I think I’ll pass
Nancy
Waukesha, Wi
I was prescribed 6 tapers of Prednisone back to back over 7 weeks. Not once when I picked up any of these 6 prescriptions was I warned about the adverse side effects of taking Prednisone. Let me put this in context to outline the seriousness of my adverse side effects. When I say adverse side effects I am referring to hostility, aggression, rage, being set off by things that never bothered me before. Just over 3 months ago I started a new job with a local church.
Doing the math you can see that for half my time at my new job I was on Prednisone. I knew I felt differently. I knew I was full of rage. I had trouble interacting with people EVERYWHERE! What is deeply concerning to me is the sit down talk I had with the pastor and the president of the common council last week. I was informed that members of the congregation had been discussing my rude aggressive behavior with the pastor and council President as well as amongst themselves.
Embarrassed and full of shame doesn’t begin to describe how awful I feel. I feel that Prednisone single handily derailed my job. To say that my job was my life is an understatement. It meant everything to me. I was thrilled that I was attending worship services on a regular basis. I was thrilled to meet such wonderful people. Since my sit down with the pastor and the council President everything has changed. I don’t want to show my face. There isn’t a hole deep enough for me to crawl into. Since I got home from work Friday, I have not left my house. I can’t even go to the grocery store.
Taking Prednisone for such a long time has completely derailed my job. It has been a huge nightmare. I don’t know if I will ever be able to recover from this nightmare. It’s a damn shame I didn’t listen to myself when I knew I felt so aggressive and hostile and full of rage. To anyone reading this, let my story be a lesson , DO NOT EVER TAKE PREDNISONE! It is a nightmare.
Laurie
Redmond, Washington
In case you want to know about insomnia and prednisone, my son was given the drug for an ordinary sinus infection at 60 MG. at a walk-in clinic. After only one dose of 60 MG. he had a horrible reaction, racing heartbeat, anxiety, and sleeplessness. After an entire week he still struggles to get even 4 hours of sleep. Thankfully, the other symptoms are dissipating but the insomnia is still a problem. All this for a single dose of 60mg. The worst is that the doctor didn’t bother to fill him in on the side effects so he wasn’t able to consider not risking them. So much for trusting a doctor.
Omar
rd
I use this medicine to treat sinusitis and not cure it. I was on the verge of death because this medicine suppresses your own immune system, so its kill you slowly. Thaks to God that im intelligent and stop using it and begin to drink natural veggies and fruits juices to heal my inmune system again.
Stacy
AL
I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in 1997 so I’ve been on my share of Prednisone. But, all but one GI doctor tried to keep my doses low and taken as little as possible. The GI doc I had was off for some reason. I wasn’t flaring too badly but while in the hospital, I was put on a heavy dose of I.V. steroids. So, I couldn’t just go home and take a much smaller dosage.
The doctor who saw me in the hospital put me on 80 mgs. of Prednisone a day.
I had to taper off weekly. 80 for a week, 70 a week and so on.
I even told my mom that I felt that I was on way too much. But, I knew better than to go cold turkey it. The only side effect was weight gain. But, I gained 100 lbs. I’ve never been overweight in my entire life until Prednisone entered my life. My GI did do a bone density test, and it was normal. In fact, everything was. Normal A1C, BP, no mental problems, nothing.
In 2009, I stopped the IBD maintenance meds. Doctors can’t find the disease anymore. It’s like it just decided to die off, thank God. I still never have any IBD ever. Fast forward to 2014. I’ve been having stiffness in my back and neck. My GP would give me steroid shots. They worked at first.
Then, I would be startled awake with these terrible back spasms. They happened every 10 minutes or so. I didn’t get to sleep until 8 the next morning. So, I was put on Tramadol and Baclofen.
Now, in 2017, I can barely turn my neck from side to side; the muscles in my back and neck are always tight. There’s hardly any give to them. It is so bad that I couldn’t turn my neck when I was turning the corner in a parking garage and dented the truck. Last week, I was walking to the truck after shopping. I was stooping over a bit. Plus, the sun was in my eyes. By the time I managed to look up. I didn’t see a thick square of wood sticking out of someone’s truck. I slammed into it with my left cheek. It knocked off my glasses and badly scratched my cheek. It’s healed great now but you can see how badly my disability has affected me.
I’m still on Tramadol and Baclofen. But, I also have to take Goody’s or BC powder for Arthritis if I want to be able to bend down to tie my shoes.
The aspirin with the pain meds and muscle relaxants really help.
My brother is a massage therapist so that helps.
But, is there anything that I can do to get my range of motion back without needing all these meds? I’m tired of having my neck and back muscles feel like they are set in stone. Taking more steroid shots isn’t an option for me. I want to try to avoid them as much as possible now.
I’m 41. I want to feel as normal as possible before I get too old to enjoy my favorite activities, which are hiking, exercising, biking and other things. I’m an outdoor person. But, ever since 2014, I stay home more and more. I even avoid shopping a lot.
What can I do? I feel too young to stop living the way I want to.
Cher
Wayland, NY
I developed a cold sore and I actually thought it was acne. Just one sore by my lip, covered it with Clearasil and a Band-Aid. Woke up three days before Christmas 2016 with a swollen eye, saw pa said I had pink eye. Christmas mooring my eye was worse, went to regional health, same diagnosis but they changed me for drops to ointment.
Did not improve so I went to my eye surgeon and he said I had uveitis and gave me durezol. New super strength steroid eye drop. Ended up going to fkaum eye institute, had herpes simplex eye infection from cold sore virus. Am now taking at least 6 .05 Xanax to deal with the damage to my system and anxiety.
Now, on weaker eye drop but no dr will admit that durezol caused anxiety. Emailed a friend of my daughter’s, top eye surgeon John’s Hopkins who told me that some of her patients have had the same experience as I am having. Just a warning and I am still suffering after 10 months. It does happen to some people.
Richard
British Columbia
My aunt was prescribed prednisone for asthma when she was admitted to hospital. After 3 days, she started talking with a grandiose air and making extravagant purchases and plans. She started writing a book and was going to direct a play that was to take place in a neighbouring bandshell. She wrote day and night and called people at inappropriate times. She was forced off the drugs. She had no idea anything was wrong with her. The behaviour continued for 2 months after the prednisone was stopped, and then she had a huge melt down and completely lost her mind. An ambulance was called, and she was hospitalized for a day and surprisingly released. She was quiet for 6 months, but for the past year and a half has been condescending, aggressive, intense, no empathy, grandiose, queenly, opinionated, interrupts others, and has become punishing and mean. She has no filter, and can’t tell if what she is saying is hurting or offending people. She still continues to work part-time in a retail store and hasn’t been fired.
Is this a documented pathology where prednisone can cause long-term, chronic, lifelong personality disorder? She seems to be manic too.
Babs
98065
I am on a 12 day regime of prednisone with the first 6 days 60mg per day and the remaining to be used to taper off the drug. I’m on day 3. I have had no side effects following instructions to take med in am and with food.
The ringing in my ears has no change and the lump in the left lingual side of my tongue has not reduced. When should I expect any changes?
David
Sonaran Desert
I was given Prednisone Intermuscular when admitted to the ER for an anaphylactic reaction to a Bee sting. I had already given myself a dose of Epinepherine (Epi-Pen) as I am supposed to, and that had brought the anaphylactic reaction under control, long before the EMT’s arrived. Upon release from the ER I was perscribed Prednisone oral 10mg BID for 5 days, this is day one. I was admited to the ER 26 hours ago, and released 20 hours ago.
So far as to reactions to prednisone, I have vomited 3 times (I had never in my life vomited in memory before), ejecting whatever portion of the drug had not yet been absorbed, along with my keppra (I experience epeliptic seizures, fairly regularly normally, keppra helps to control this), and any food in my stomach. I have not been able to sleep, I have felt very hot on this very cool 90 degree day (cool for here, sanoran desert).
I have further had both surface sensations on skin, and stomach feelings that are beyond my ability to describe, as they are so different from anything I have ever previously experienced that I have no reference to be able to put these sensations into words. These sensations are very very unplesent.
I am having ghost sensations in my legs/feet. While I do have some sensation in my legs (paraplegic) these sensations are much stronger than what I capable of feeling in my legs/feet. Sensations as strong as what I can feel in my arms, and uncomfortable sensations at that.
I also experienced a strong sense of all is well for a few hours that I can only attribute to a potential psych reaction to Prednisone.
I read that Prednisone increases the risk of epelictic seizures, beings as I normally deal with reasonably frequent epelictic seizures this scares me a bit, especially as I am not able to keep my Keppra down, do to the prednisone causing me to vomit.
As the use of epeniphrine had brought the anaphylaptic reaction under control, and there was no sign of the symptoms returning, I do not understand whay the ER physition chose to perscribe Prednisone. I could understand possibly perscribing an antihistamine or histamine-blocker, and monitoring for me for an extra couple of hours to be safe, though prednisone is a definite case of overkill qubed (raised to the power of 3) for this case.
I belive that the level of negitive effects I am experiencing qualify as an elergic reaction, as they are worse than what would call for an ER visit if they were from any other class of medication, as such I am discontinuing the Prednisone, calling this evenings dose the final dose. If it is that the withdraw side effects turn out to be as bad as is often reported, after only three doses then I will have to deal with that in the best maner I am able to .
Gary
Kentucky
I was prescribed Prednisone when I developed an unknown rash and itching. After numerous tests the cause was undetermined and I was put on Prednisone usually between 5mg and 10mg. I have been on them now for about 7 years and my arms are starting to show a lot of skin deterioration. My doctor wants to reduce gradually my daily intake to 5mg through 1mg reductions for 4 weeks. After four days the itching has returned to the arms and torso. I want to know what other body parts that Prednisone affects if taken long term.
Billy
Florida
Gary,
Do you consume anything that contains artificial sweeteners?
Protein drinks, diet soda and anything of that nature?
I had an unbearable, undiagnosable rash for 4 years. It was from the artificial sweetener in Muscle Milk, a protein drink that contained no sugar.
I stopped artificial sugar and the rash is gone!!
Chris
PA
I am on Keppra also and have vomited up my meds.
I also had 2 hours of seizure-like activity on pzone.
Best wishes.
PS
New Jersey
Very helpful article.
MarieLouise
New Zealand
I went to see my GP for a doctor’s certificate to take 2 days off from work due to a persistent cough (I am nurse and could not work around patients like this). I also had a sore throat which was getting better and wasn’t really bothering me anymore. My GP decided to give me Prednisone 40mg per day for 5 days. That was on a Tuesday morning. As soon as I got home i took the first dose of Prednisone. That night I woke up around 03h00 with the most painful throat I have ever had. By Thursday night I could hardly swallow my saliva let alone any food or drink. I looked up the side effects and saw that you have to let your doctor know if you have a persistent sore throat. I did not take the rest of the tablets and am now waiting to see if things are going to clear up over the next 7 days. Good luck to me.
Lena
Hawaii
Good for you for getting off of the prednisone! Most people don’t do that and the side effects are brutal. I went through steroid psychosis 2 years ago from it after thinking it was an antibiotic for a rash that was actually an allergic reaction to another medication I had taken. I was only on it for 7 days but ended up in the ER, was pumped with the highest ¨safe¨ dosage then was crazy for the next month in my own la la land since I had insomnia, hallucinations, panic attacks etc. Thank goodness I wasn’t suicidal! Thats a common side effect too. It is a deal with the Devil! Oh yeah, he was in my hallucinations too!
Mitchy
I have finally decided to share my story after reading countless blogs related to other people’s issues with Prednisone. I was diagnosed with sudden hearing loss earlier this year. Up until then I had been in perfect health. I am active, I run, work out, don’t ever smoke, I do drink alcohol, no drugs, etc. I had gone to he urgent care in which they pumped me full of antibiotics as they thought I had an ear infection. after the third trip I decided to go to the ENT. they confirmed it was sudden hearing loss with no real explanation as to why or how this would happen.
The ENT said it could have been viral which can cause sudden hearing loss. Nothing in the research can confirm that but some studies suggest it. Either way, he then said in a hail Mary effort to recover my hearing that I should take a 20 day dose of Prednisone. Said this would be around a 1% chance it would work but that it would be worth it. also said not to worry about the side effects as even though they look bad online, they typically do not impact his patience. Taking the Docs advice I went through with it.
First 5 days, 20MG, next five 15mg then 10 and 5. by day 10, I was in the ER. I thought I was having a heart attack. I had a beer at lunch with a client and I immediately felt faint. I was told alcohol and Prednisone do not have any known interactions. It was horrible. My right arm went numb, tingling in my feel and hands, shortness of breathe, light headed, dizzy, loss of balance, blurred vision, body was shaking….it was a nightmare. They ran all sorts of tests, EKG, blood work, etc and said I had a panic attack. They also said to go ahead and keep taking the Prednisone. so, three days later, had a sip of wine, wound up in the ER again. between the first ER and second er visit I had to get an MRI for the hearing loss.
This ER visit same blood work and run of everything with the addition of a CAT scan and a neurologist visit. they said the same thing, panic attack. some how the Prednisone had set off my system and alcohol was some how triggering these extreme panic attacks. for the last four months, I had to deal with my wife, family, doctors all think I am crazy. That I have some sort of anxiety or PTSD due to work stress or something. Nobody believed me when I said it was the medicine. I finally went to an endocrinologist and she is the one who did believe me. told me stories on how bad this drug can be (suicide, hallucinations, heart failure, etc). didn’t have an explanation or solution to anything. only that in time this should all wear off. same things Two ENT’s, PCP, four ER docs and a neurologist said. Living it was hell. I am finally back to 90-92% normalcy. This drug is hell. Stay away.
Nicole
NC
I have Ankylosing Spondylitis. I’ve been hospitalized twice for Costachondritis (inflammation of the connective tissue in the ribs). To Ankylose means to fuse. If my ribs fused I wouldn’t be able to expand my lungs. I was put on IV’s of Solumedrol (steroids), and my liver enzymes that shouldn’t be above 40 went above 1100, and I had to have surgery to remove a perfectly good gall bladder because they couldn’t figure out what to do to help my liver. The protective coating around the liver was floating in my abdomen, and it was large and boggy according to the operative report. My face got so round and turned orange from jaundice induced by the steroids. I’ve been hospitalized for it twice, and both times I was put on IV steroids. 1 year after the 2nd case of Costachondritis I was in an accident and got a serious burst fracture of my L1 vertebrae. I was hospitalized for 1 month completely immobilized because my bones had such severe Osteoporosis from all of the steroids. I wore a torso cast for 10 months. Afterwards I was given a Dexa Scan and at 42 I had the bones of 101 year old woman. I had to have cataract surgery in both eyes as a result of steroid eye drops for Iritis, a condition caused by Ankylosing Spondylitis.
My liver enzymes are still a wreck and I’m now 59. I had to have a liver biopsy and it was just inflammed. I have severe muscle spasms constantly. My quality of life has been reduced to a great deal of time in bed just dealing with the pain of all the inflammation. I’m on a very strict anti-inflammatory diet with zero gluten and any night shade vegetables that would also cause inflammation. It’s so hard when my grandkids who live in different states come to visit, and I don’t have the energy to enjoy them. They’ve put me on Humira now but when i take it bi-monthly it feels as though I have the flu, and I hurt all over. I’m so tired of just existing.
Donna K
Ohio
I have severe Meziere’s syndrome for the last 7 yrs with flunctuating hearing loss; some vertigo (dizziness) periodically; blocking of ears; extreme noise in both ears; sounds like siren in 1 ear and the other pulsating in time to my heartbeat. Have just finished an 18-day “prednisone burst” of high-dose oral steroids with taper, 60 mg x 3D, 50, 40, etc. For the first 5 days I felt wonderful. My ears opened, could hear, no noise or pulsating. Noticed that as I tapered down my ears began to block again, and now I have worse symptoms than when I started. Have been off for 1 wk and feeling worse . Called md who was sympathetic but said it would pass. Wondered if you can become intolerant to steroids?
LMH
Florida
Reading the PP overview on prednisone and reader’s comments are very helpful. This is the third time I have taken prednisone in my lifetime. But never 60 mg a day. I was alarmed by the high-dose and number of days but anxious to get my hearing back after experiencing sensorineural hearing loss in my right ear as a result of a benign cold/virus. Maybe some improvement in hearing? Still two weeks to go. Meanwhile, the insomnia, constant bathroom trips, yeast infections, and feelings of displacement have been difficult. I am educated on corticosteroids but I feel sorry for those persons who are prescribed this medicine where doctors and pharmacists do not prepare them. My doctor marginalized my concerns. I have a love-hate with prednisone. I think it is a miracle drug for many conditions. I will be very grateful if I get my hearing back. But it is a tough regimen. My advice is to get in touch with yourself and your symptoms, read often for reassurance and report any concerns to your physician Talking with trusted family and friends helps as well, so that they are aware of what you were going through and can offer support.
Deb
I am just tapering off a short term high dose course of Prednisolone after an inflammatory pulmonary response following bronchitis. The doctor didn’t warn me of side effects but my RN daughter did. The doctor gave me a prescription for another medication to fill if I felt nauseous, that’s all. But I have had no nausea. The side effect for me was that an hour or so after taking it I would be hyperactive and almost manic. It wasn’t a bad feeling, though, and one my daughter had prepared me for, and I was able to use it to get a few things done. But then in the middle-late afternoon I had a slump. Felt terrible for a few hours and eventually levelled out and went to bed. Then a few hours sleep and up again.
I’m tapering off now, and the hyperactivity has definitely reduced. I’ve never been as sick in my life so I’m grateful that I had the medication but can understand how frightening it would be to feel the way I felt without knowing it could be the medication.
Bobby
Massachusetts
I was put on 40mg prednizone after a brush with acute idiopathic pancreatitis. Meaning, no one could tell me why it was happening or what coukdve caused it. 40mg for a week then taper down 5mg every week until I was done. The pain I was experiencing in my pancreas drastically decreased and my appetite returned. Instead of weight gain, I lost pretty close to 40 lbs.
The only real side effects I experienced while taking the drug were euphoria and insomnia. Many nights up past 4 am with warm face and stomach.
The real issues arose when my taper went from 5mg to nothing . Massive mood swings and bouts with depression. I already have had issues with anxiety and now that im off prednizone the panic attacks are getting more frequent . Whereas before I started taking the drug I hadnt had an attack in almost a year. Just had 3 within the same week. Im hoping that within the next few months my levels will stabilize and I can go back to being me.
Im terrified I wont be able to.
Joshua
Detroit
So this is crazy. I was given a steroid in 2013 in my arm at the ER for breathing problems. I felt like I was going MAD. It took months to recover. Now my Dr. gave me an ear drop that has a steroid in it, and I have only been on it for 4 days. I have had paranoia and mental issues in that short a time. I guess it’s because it may go straight to your brain. I stopped this morning. I came to this page because I thought I was going crazy. Almost went to the ER last night. But I thought, what are they going to do? Yes, I get it, it helps many people. I think I would rather die then go though this again.
Katherine
California
I had drug-induced lupus and was very reluctant to take the prednisone to help. But I really thought I was dying. So I took a 14 day tapered dose from 60 mg to 10 mg and then off. It helped my symptoms. Yes. I felt a little crazy for awhile but I think it saved my life. I’ve been off 10 days and it’s fine.
Don’t be afraid of this drug if it will save you. Short term should be okay.
But everyone is different.
Fran
Montréal, Canada
Recently diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis, Dr. put me on Prednisone 60 mg for 30 days. Starting to feel pain in my ankles and hip area and that swollen/flushed face is driving me nuts. I was confused about the latter due to my Left Temporal Artery biopsy, but I just now realized it’s from this necessary evil drug. I have one more week to go, hopefully I will be tapered off soon. Thank you so much for your input.
Hailey
New Jersey
I’m 22 and I have Systemic Lupus Erythmatosis. I’ve been on and off Prednisone the past two years and it’s completely terrible. I am currently on 10mg a day with no end in sight. I was taking 25mg a day two weeks ago and have tapered myself down to 10mg. If I stop them, I can’t move from extreme joint pain.
So, I don’t really have a choice right now. The side effects are the worst feeling in the world. I feel crazy. Everything seems to piss me off even if I try my hardest to control how I react. It takes over my mind so hard that it makes me depressed and feel lonely. I have no actual reason to feel like this. Instead of gaining weight I lost a lot of weight. I haven’t slept in god knows how long. Sleeping just isn’t a thing when you’re taking steroids.
I lay in bed at night with this harsh feeling of fear to the point where sometimes I cry because I don’t know what else to do. You can explain this to anyone you want but unless you take prednisone, especially for this long, they won’t understand. It’s impossible for someone who has never had to take them to understand this feeling. Sometimes I think I’ve finally got it down, I can control how I feel and what I say and do but then BAM a second later it’s like a hurricane swipes through and suddenly my world is a living hell.
I have told my doctor these side effects and he says it’s “normal” but I hate that answer. This isn’t normal, nothing about this stupid drug is normal. It’s not fair having to choose to feel like a bat out of hell or to be bedridden. I suggest to always deny prednisone if the option is there. Deal with the pain or make a deal with the devil.
Lisa
OHIO
Hailey, I feel your pain. I have been on prednisone since 2013. I have severe rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to being on a gluten free, grain free, vegan diet I feel like I am losing my mind. I have tried on my own to stop taking it, and it only makes matters worse.
My doctots do not want me to go off this drug, but at this point I feel my sanity is more important. If only I had known in the beginning about the side effects of this drug I would have run for the hills. Nothing short of a nightmare!
Nancy
Oceanside, CA
I have been on prednisone 2 years for PMR. I’m 66 and the doctor claimed I’d need to be on the drug for the rest of my life. No way I told him. Yet, the drug helped me turn into a puppy when I couldn’t walk, type, bend, sit, or feel like living when I was stricken with pain 3 months before.
At 60 mg daily prescription, my life returned to normal within just 3 days and it was obvious to me that my body had not atrophied like I felt it had. There was hope! Every time I drop a couple mgs to wean myself off this drug, I feel aches in my upper legs and chest/neck areas. Strange, but I’ve come to accept those aches as withdrawal symptoms.
Also, I sleep a lot the first couple days when I drop off to a lower dosage. I recently had all my blood work clear and just dropped to 1 mg to stop in the next month. Still experiencing the mentioned lethargy and slight pain from decreasing my dosage from 2 to 1 mg, just 3 days ago. I’m so grateful my disease is resolved and now I need to shed the excess weight gain around my belly.
I’ve been exercising to build back strength and endurance. From all accounts, exercise is most important, especially above 60. This will be a priority for me, as I never want to experience prednisone again. And I really appreciate the sharing about nightmares (it’s true, hallucinations with your eyes closed DO occur).
Danielle
Canada
Hi everyone. My story. After years of suffering with hypothyroidism and a doctor trying to tell me my readings were normal, I finally had a reading that was high enough to get me on some meds. Although, feeling slightly better for a week or two, I then crashed again and my doctor refused to increase my dose until 10 months later. I couldn’t function.
Long story short, the doc decided to send me for all types of tests over a period of about a year to find out why I was so weak. I could barely have a shower without having a lie down before I had to go to these tests. Doc said ” You’re getting old, you have to expect not feeling good. ” I was dumbfounded! What a thing for a doctor to say, especially when I was always very strong and healthy. Last test was the heart.
I was so scared as heart problems run in the family. Thankfully, no problems. As it turned out, I could not believe my luck! The heart surgeon changed my meds for the hypothyroidism and told me I have polymyalgia rheumatica. He prescribed Prednisone 20 mg once a day then tapering down after 3 weeks. The day I saw this doctor, I almost collapsed. 1 week later, I felt almost like my old self. I was more active and feeling so good!
Today, I suddenly had the most painful spasm in my chest that lasted about 20 minutes. I thought I was having a heart attack but could not reach anyone to call an ambulance. After 20 minutes, the spasm slowly disappeared. Went to research on the net and found this. I figured after having my heart monitored and tests done with the result being no heart or health problems other than the 2 mentioned, I could not be having a heart attack so I tried to calm myself throughout the spasm. So, add that to the list of possible side effects.
Julie
Georgia
I was given prednisone for a poison ivy reaction. I took the medicine as prescribed. A few days after finishing the medication, I am breaking out in a itchy rash.
I feel as bad as I did with the poison ivy with the exceptions of swelling. I’m drinking plenty of water trying to clear my system of this awful medicine. Is there anything else that I should do to get relief?
Sheila
Upon Mass
My name is Sheila Currie I have severe COPD also high blood pressure and vile heart failure, the doctor put me on Albuterol also 40 mg of Prednisone once a day I haven’t slept in 3 nights will not hurt me I am just walking around like a zombie I don’t know how to get some sleep. Hope you can’t help thank you
Kerry
Bishop, CA
The publication date online for this thread is 2012. I’d like to share that now, in 2017, I had a debilitating itchy rash for four days until I was prescribed prednisone, which cleared it up within 20 hours. I’m guessing for every horror story about steroids, there is another miracle cure, like mine. One man’s trash, another man’s treasure.
PS. Well, I would agree with the sleeplessness side-effect. I’m sending this at 12:30 am, local time.
Sonia
Australia
Hi I’ve been taking prednisilone for almost 7 years everyday. I started on 40mg maximum dose and soon just took 5mg everyday to keep the flow going.
I have rheumatoid arthritis. It’s very painful. I wouldn’t be able to function without it. Yes it’s a pain in itself. I bruise when i go out dancing. Could be due to alcohol intake. Weight gain not so sure as I’m now 43 and finding I’m between 50 and 54kg instead of 48 to 52kg and i love food. At 158cm height. I’ve been 50kg as long as i can remember. No real shock there. No exercise so no real shock getting a bit of a belly. What i do notice is i feel I’ve lost my feelings. In side. Almost like an anti depressant. Numb like.
But I’ve had personal issues stemming back to when i was 7. And 40s is when you see things differently. I’m not buying a bike or car. Wish i could. Lol
My eyes need mild long term glasses. Again I’m older. There is no real symptom that tells me I’m suffering from the drug. Or it’s just life. But i know. I’m different in my body and my mind. And i think I’ve already known for a while that i made a pact with the devil drug. I would much rather injections when it’s bad. It seemed to have worked for the long term. But getting one is harder than taking tablets. Maybe its my unfortunate Dr finding skills. They suck here in Canberra. All the best to those who suffer and have not many choices. I’m up late going through withdraw because i stupidly went cold from taking them since Thursday. Feeling more mental awareness less depression or numbness. But i can’t sleep and im agitated haha.
Wish i was normal again with no arthritis . It’s scary to think I’ll have to endure pain for the rest of my life.
Jenny
Utah
This is my 3rd day on prednisone, I’ve been prescribed 40 mg/day x2 wks, 20 mg/day x 2 weeks, 10 mg/day x 2 weeks. My lung function has declined I’ve been diagnosed with a hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by the dust from feathers, (we had a Quaker parrot).
As a nurse, having seen the side effects that patients experience, I didn’t want to take it. I was talked into it by the pulmonologist and my husband. The doctor said the inflammation in my lungs will continue to cause damage if I don’t take the prednisone to bring the inflammation down.
I’m a pretty cheerful person, but yesterday I had some major mood swings, which sure caught my family off guard. Last night, all night, I was sneezing and my eyes were watering. Well, it hasn’t stopped this morning, and it’s driving me crazy! There is nothing else that I can think of that could cause this, but I’ve never heard of this type of reaction. Has anyone else ever experienced this? I’m afraid of what other side effects I’m going to experience.
I am on a lot of allergy meds and take allergy shots, I’m wondering if the prednisone is suppressing those medications and the ability to control my allergies.
Connie Black
Virginia
Last night my nose was running but after some good sneezes the inside of my nose started to burn so I had to flush out my nose with my netty pot. 20 minutes later I felt better. Weird feeling. Now the depression is so bad.
Ali
Prednisone has bad side effects but don’t lose sight of the fact that it can be a lifesaver for people as well. I was diagnosed with Chron’s disease. I was passing so much blood it looked like the toilet was full of red kool aid every time I went to the bathroom. Currently am taking 40mg a day. The side effects suck- no argument- shakes, hair growth on my face, heart races at time, moon face, hunger, fat redistributed to my stomach— BUT, I’m not running to the bathroom to avoid an “accident.” I have not lost control of my bowels since I started on Prednisone, my energy is higher, no huge blood loss every time I go to the bathroom. Eventually, I will have to taper down as we try other meds but, for now, the deal with the Devil called Prednisone is one I’m happy to have made.
Andrea Dale
Ohio
I was put on a prednisone taper for a skin problem. I think i was supposed to take it for 10 or 14 days, i can’t remember now. I just remember realizing after about 6 days that i was losing my mind so to speak and quit it myself. I am very careful now to pay close attention to the small discreet changes that any medication, even too much vitamin supplements can cause. I’ve learned my lesson. Everything we put into our bodies is causing an alteration in our normal biochemical pathways. Everything has an effect. Too little intake of the correct vitamins/amino acids/minerals is bad….but SO IS TOO MUCH! If i could educate everyone about biochemistry and how our bodies are affected by everything we take in, i would be a very happy person.
sarah
Sedalia mo
I feel exactly the same! I too have Crohns, and it’s a godsend! I feel more normal on it than always worrying about accidents!
Trevor
Virginia
This drug should be BANNED! If your doctor tries to put you on this stuff find another doctor because he or she is a QUACK!
Tony
FL
You should never ‘advise’ someone not to take a medication (if prescribed) just because it does not work for you. I have been on prednisone for 10 years as a kidney transplant recipient. It has been a life saver and something i must take for the rest of my life, low dosages of 2.5-5 mg depending on blood work completed each month.
Tanya
California
Trevor, I can’t agree with you. I am personally having a life-threatening reaction where prednisone is the only option for treatment. I’m miserable, but without it, I would be dead. Eventually I will be tapered off.
Mack
I am a 58 yr old male. I was on oral steroids for Intermediate Uveitis for 7 months. 60mg / day tapered to 2.5mg /day. At 15mg felt like a truck hit me every day. No energy. I did not gain weight (I do work out a lot).
I slowly got my energy back only to find that the slight anxiety and depression that also came on at 15mg / day was now a monster that attacked me every morning. I am now on Lexapro and Xanax but they are a very small help in dealing with this. It is extremely hard to be around people or to go to work every day.
Alice
PA
I was prescribed 40 mg of prednisone for 7 days for poison sumac. I didn’t do well on this medication at all. The rash is just as bad and I am exhausted, confused, shaking and really not happy. I finished the prescription yesterday and hope to let the rash run it’s course. I’ll use antihistamines for the itch. I hope to get the steroid out of my system soon. I was foolish to go and play tennis…I couldn’t even hit the ball. That didn’t help. Never again.
Went Natural
Co
I was on Prednisone and had severe withdrawal side effects when I went off of it even with tapering off.
I chose a natural approach to rebuild my adrenals and the whole HPA Axis. It can
take from 6 months to 2 years for the body to normalize. After 6 mons. on my natural program I noticed alot of improvement ( it helped some from the start too) and now after 1 and a half yrs. I am tapering down slowly from some of the naturals. Dr. Wilson’s Adrenal Rebuilder is amazing as is Integrative Therapeutics Cortivive among others. One could also find what they need to know from the book by Dr Wilson, Adrenal Fatigue. It covers the full program many have chosen and is vital! I also used Dr King’s 9-1-1 Burnout spray in my program among many others. If you go natural study well first and of course be careful.
There is hope even though the symptoms are a nightmare for sure so don’t loose heart. Hang in there! Blessings to All in this Situation
Joe
Florida
As a child at age 12 I was diagnosed with Dermatomyositis and admitted to the hospital. The disease got into my shoulders and was put on 30 tablets a day my guess is 5 mg tablets, they were small and white. I could not walk because of the disease.
Two months later I started therapy and was walking 6 months later. I had a life expectancy of 18 to 25 years of age and am now 62. Doctor tapered me off for a year when I was 19. I would have flare ups and would be put on 2 week runs.
When I was 27 I was on a 2 week run of prednisone and my Doctor called me himself and told me to go straight to the hospital since my glucose was 740. I have not been on prednisone since.
As I got older I had minimal problems with the disease. In the last 5 years my diabetes has been out of control and considered very brittle but my Doctor after 9 months is about to get it right after changing my insulin type 4 times. My BP has always been a little low but in the last 5 years have had problems with it being too high. Now I have leg and foot cramps if I am on my feet too long.
Five years I could walk 2 miles without any problems but this gradually got worse and now I can walk only about 150 to 200 feet and my leg calves get very tight where I have to walk slow or stop. Then 2 months ago I was just walking down the stairs and had a pop in my calf and was walking on my toe on that leg and the Doctor gave me a boot and crutches. Then after an MRI that showed nothing torn he put me on 800 mg of ibuprofen twice a day.
Two months later my calf and foot swells everyday and is still very painful to walk on. I know it has a lot to do with my long term use of prednisone and also my Dermatomyositis since it destroyed the muscles and connective tissue in both calves. My eyes are fine, have had 2 mild heart attacks. My energy level seems to be depleted.
I feel most of my problems are the result of my long time use of prednisone. When I tell a Doctor about my dose they look at me like I’m crazy but I have an 88 yr old mother and a 91 year father that can vouch for me.
dave
houston
wow…exactly what I have gone through….wild…
Joan F
Pottsville, Pa. 17901
I’m on prednisone for a bronchial infection with severe coughing It helped that but IM GETTING SPASMS IN MY R SIDE LOWER AND UPPER BACK I only have 2 days left on a half pill a day Spasms are like quick shots of pain just turning a certain way
Cheri
FL
I had to go to the ER today for a super severe allergic reaction; we think it was a crossover in my chicken fried rice of shrimp which I am very allergic to. Anyhow they hooked me up to the IV within 5-minutes max of me walking in (yep, that bad) and they gave me a few meds into the IV including 120 mg of Prednisone. The Dr. sent me home with a prescription of Prednisone 20 mg. tablets to take 3 pills once a day for 5-days. He did say it would affect my type 2 diabetes, but WOW he never said it would go to 499 tonight! Is it that high because of that large 120 mg dose? And what can I do to bring it down? Not sure if I should start the rest of the script tomorrow or what? I’m very worried; the allergy attack came close to killing me today, so I am not sure what to do here? Any advice?
Voni H.
Oklahoma
I almost died because of Prednisone:
At age 51 I was bedridden for 3 months as a result of Lupus. The typical Prednisone Packs that I took over the last 13 years to bounce back were no longer working. So I went on Prednisone full time. Soon after, I was feeling on top of the world and had my life back. However, I was not fully informed of the side affects of Prednisone, and I did not do my own research as I should have.
About a month later I realized I could no longer see to do my makeup without a magnifying mirror, and even that was getting difficult. I went from having 20/20 vision to not being able to read the largest print on the eye chart with my right eye. The prednisone had caused cataracts in both eyes, and both would need surgery to get my full sight back. I tried to taper off the prednisone because of that, but I ended up bedridden again so I went back on the Prednisone full time.
By the 4th month I could tell I was not myself. I was moody, seriously depressed and having angry outbursts. None of this was like me at all. I also started to have insomnia. I couldn’t concentrate, and I was struggling with confusion off and on.
And as if that wasn’t enough, I started having dangerously high blood pressure spikes that caused chest discomfort and pain. When this happened I was very hyper and would speak very fast. It was like I was on a ton of caffiene, but I wasn’t on any. I was given blood pressure medication to take when this would happen because the numbers were in the heart attack and stroke territory, my doctor said.
Because I was on so many medications, it took me a couple of months to figure out that the mood problems were being caused by the Prednisone. By then I was fighting serious suicidal thoughts and crying daily. I talked to both of my doctors and learned I would have to wean off the Prednisone very slowly since I had been on it for 6 months. So I got a counselor and was calling suicide hot lines, doing whatever I could to fight the suicidal thoughts.
It was taking so long to wean off it, and I could tell I wasn’t going to make it, so I changed the weaning from 2 weeks at a time to 2 days at a time toward the end. I did so without talking to my doctor, which I don’t recommend. I knew full well that the side affects could be dangerous, difficult and painful, but I figured it was better then being dead from suicide. I was days from being off the prednisone when I lost that battle.
Against my true wishes, against my true self, I tried to kill myself by overdosing. I used a different prescription to do this. I spent 3 days in the hospital fighting for my life. When I regained consciousness in ICU, I was told by 2 different doctors that I could have died.
They confirmed that of all the medications I was on, they believed the Prednisone was what was causing the depression and suicidal thoughts. But they said it could take a week to a month for the prednisone to be completely out of my system. They did an IV flush to help with that, and several days later I felt more like myself again. I was sent home from the hospital with a safety plan. After that the depression was gone but I had one more episode of an angry outburst one day later that week. And then that nightmare was finally over.
After stopping the prednisone the mood problems, blood pressure spikes, the chest pains, the need for blood pressure medication, the insomnia, confusion and difficulty concentrating, it all got better. I had surgery for the cataracts in one eye, and that vision has improved, but I still need surgery on the other eye to get back to 20/20 vision. No one had told me about any of these side affects.
A month and half later I was scheduled for dental work that included a bone graft. Prednisone was part of the recovery, and I was assured I would be okay since I wouldn’t be on it long. I did okay but I will forever be careful with Prednisone and avoid it whenever possible.
There needs to be more awareness about this drug with doctors as well as patients. I almost died because of it. It makes me wonder how many people have died from it and aren’t here to tell their stories.
Mary
Florida
Do I go blind or do I take the 60 mg. Per day. . I am past 8O and in excellent health, headaches coming back, and affecting both eyes now, mood changes, no sleep for 35 hours, itching, chest pains returning, coughing..all things I had under excellent control. Each morning as I take that poison I ask what am I doing to myself????
I made a pact with the devil, and if I don’ t cooperate he will take away both my eyes. Is it worth it?
Bad thing is the monitoring doctors in Florida do not jump to respond to your dire need. They are here for the good life, beach, sun, and less taxes. It seems more important that you have a great insurance plan so they get their money. No follow up, no returned phone calls. Their obligation is to prioritize these cases.
So you risk taking another week or month of this poison unnecessarily, damaging more parts of your healthy body.
barbara
Hi,
My daughter had a sports injury as a college athlete with severe whiplash. She had four shots of steroid in her neck last Friday for occipital neuritis and oral Medrol pack for tapered oral prednisone. She is feeling totally out of it, panicky, not herself, foggy. She leaves for a job in Europe this summer a week from now and I am totally freaked out. The neurologist office is not returning our calls. I don’t know whether to have her finish the pack or not (she is on the day where you take three so there are three days left). I am guessing she got bombarded with the four shots to the neck and then the oral meds. I don’t know how to help her and am freaked out she will have a total breakdown while in another country far away from home. I am so so angry they talked us into this course of treatment and I looked at the consent form for the shots- no talk about psych symptoms at all.
barbara
Also, wondering if anyone can please please tell me if these symptoms go away once you stop taking the oral meds.
Melissa
FL
Last night after my 5th day of tapered dose of prednisone (for sinusitis infection) I became dizzy, disoriented, couldn’t swallow or catch my breath and all my muscles in my neck and upper back became sore like I had bruises. I had a panic attack and had my mom take me to ER at 1am. They found nothing wrong with me amd treated me like I was crazy.
I screamed at them to give me something to counteract the prednisone. The doctor and nurses said prednisone doesn’t do this to people. So I left angry nd ate a ton of food because I was so hungry and upset. My blood pressure was 155/91 when it is normally 117/72. I hate prednisone and floridian doctors who don’t know how to do their job. I’d never take the drug again. I’m still sore!!!
Jo
Florida
Melissa,
I am experiencing this same this. At the end of day 5 I started feeling soreness and aching my in legs. I went to sleep and now it is day 6. I just woke up and feel sore to the touch all over my body.
Did it go away for you? If so, how long did it take? Did you take any medicine that helped the soreness?
Eugene C.
SC
I was amazed to learn (from another site) the wide range of dosages for prednisone: from less than 10 mg per day to the hundreds! I have been taking prednisone for four days now: 40 mg./day the first three days, 20mg./day for the next three, 10mg./day for days 7-9, and 5mg./day for days 10-12.
Tonight when I lay down, I could feel my heart shaking in my chest. I was having bizarre dreams of people walking through my room and objects coming to life, then disappearing — not at all normal for me. I’m taking it because my asthma is not well-controlled right now and my pulmonologist wants to calm down my severely overactive allergic responses (diagnosed by blood work).
I’m continuing Dulera 200/5 (2 puffs twice daily) plus a new prescription for inhaled Singulair (canister, not capsules). The Singulair makes me a bit dizzy for a few minutes to an hour after use, though I’m hoping that will get better as I adjust to it. I’m planning to ask about consulting a rheumatologist if the pulmonologist thinks I may need long term oral corticosteroids.
Thank God for good prescription benefits — the pharmacy told me the retail for a 90-day supply of Singulair is $1,600, but my copay is $40! What can politicians be thinking who want to undo the half-measures of the ACA? I know this is not a political site, but healthcare has become a political football in this country and Americans are the ones being kicked around. Thank you for letting me rant.
Kerry
You are right to say that health care should not be a political football. Yours is not a rant. Be well.
Margaret
It may be rare but it happens with steroids–a condition called Central Serous Retinopathy causes a separation of the layers of the retina and causes distortion of the visual field. It is caused by steroids and can go away when steroids are stopped or may not. I’ve had it twice from steroids required by asthma. Many physicians are not familiar with it. Have even had at least one deny that it exists but it does. My second episode required surgery by a retinologist and left some slight scarring.
foo
Seattle
I recently was working with fiberglass and underprotected and broke out in a hellish rash all over. I was unable to see my doctor, so I saw a nurse practitioner who prescribed a 9 day tapering dose of prednisone which I had never taken before. He gave no indication to me of what I was getting into. Like most people, I could not sleep at all.
Luckily, I had some ambien – but had to take two each night to get to sleep – if you could call it sleep. It cured the rash quickly, but caused me to break out in herpes and acne, which I have not had any trouble with for decades until now.
Now, a month later, I have a herpes outbreak which will not resolve. I have depression like I haven’t had since I was an adolescent decades ago. I’m having hot flashes, menopause symptoms like I have never had in my life. My whole system is all screwed up. This is a month after finishing the prednisone. I guess the prednisone destroyed my immune system and it is having to start over from scratch.
The side effects are so bad, I could see someone suing for malpractice for prescribing this shit without warning about the side effects or providing alternatives.
If I had known what prednisone would do to me, I would have refused it and sought some other treatment. It’s like they tried to drive a small nail with a sledgehammer. I doubt it was necessary and now I am continually suffering from side effects of prednisone.
Stephanie
Minnesota
I had a nearly fatal case of ulcerative colitis when I was 13, so I took very high doses of prednisone for only about 2 months until I had my colon removed. During those two months, I often had terrible leg pains. The night before the surgery my potassium was so low that they almost canceled the surgery (I ended up taking a big oral dose of potassium). I’m now in my 40s and discovering some curious artifacts from that time that doctors have linked to the prednisone: A knee x-ray revealed that there are dead portions in my lower femurs that new bone has grown around.
I have slight osteopenia in my femoral necks and have had 2 stress reactions there in less than a year. Seeing that blood sugar is on the list, I wonder if my fasting glucose, which has been a little high (104) for nearly a decade, despite a healthy diet and active lifestyle (I’m a runner and occasional triathlete), might also have resulted from the prednisone.
Susan
I’m extremely sensitive to corticosteroids. Sometimes, these sensitivities develop as people get older. I’ve noticed this with other medications too.
I refuse to take steroids even for localized problems, such as an injections into a painful joint, or an inhaled medication for nasal problems due to the side effects. I become very agitated, and would rather have the joint pain or the nasal rhinitis than endure the effects of a corticosteroid. Some doctors have told me that shouldn’t happen with localized steroids, but I know that it does.
I’ve used them topically, for something like poison ivy, but actually, pulling a spike off my aloe plant and squeezing the contents onto the rash works quite well for me. Naturally, people should use caution with natural remedies like this. I’m just saying what works for me.
Certainly, I’d accept a corticosteroid if I was in anaphylactic shock or another life-threatening situation. Otherwise, I’d need a detailed explanation of the reason I’m being prescribed a corticosteroid, and I’d want to know if there were alternatives.
Alice B
Stedman, NC
I took a prescribed dosage of 18 prednisone pills, tapering off daily. I was never so sick in my life. That’s was in JANUARY..now it’s May 11th, and I’m still a wreck. It changed my taste, don’t want to drive myself, don’t want to leave my house. When will it end???
Jean
Connecticut
My husband used prednisone for polymyalgia rheumatica. The protocol is to briefly consume a higher dosage, then gradually taper down each month over the course of a year to zero as long as the condition doesn’t recur. He continues, 2 years later, to take 1 mg of prednisone daily because completely eliminating it at the end of the year caused intolerable personality changes. The rheumatologist was hard to convince because he ” had no knowledge of prednisone impacting personality and behavior.” What?! He has since retired but my husband will remain on 1 mg daily with the consent of his PCP.
Bob
NC.
Extremely valuable. I certainly knew nothing of this. Beware!!
Jason
I have taken this drug regularly off and on for the last 18 months as the result of a vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma), a type of brain tumor. It has saved my hearing. It makes me wired, agitated, and an insomniac. That said, I CAN HEAR. Are the side effects rough? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes! Everything is a tradeoff. I’ll take it for a year straight if that keeps me from going deaf.
Coleen Brock
North Carolina
An antibiotic triggered hypersensitivity pneumonitis and sent me to the ER where I was admitted. Any antibiotic given in IV triggered a sensitivity and had to be stopped. I left the hospital after 2 days with 20 mg. Prednisone. This was the 23rd of February, 2017. My pulmonologist had me stay on Prednisone and I’m still on 15 mg. although I can tolerate only 5 mg. and that’s bad enough. This article helped me know I’m not alone.
Kay
I’ve had very good results with prednisone every time I’ve taken it. In 2015 I was hospitalized for three days following a terrible reaction to Humira. I received 3,000 mg by IV over those three days which eliminated the spinal and brain inflammation caused by the Humira.
I’ve had such good results with prednisone with no side effects that I’ve asked my doc to prescribe me low-dose, 5 mg daily for RA. I’ve been taking it for about 10 days and so far, so good. In reading these comments I’m struck by how little people knew about prednisone before taking it. People – do your homework! The Internet is full of valuable information posted by reputable sources. I never fill any prescriptions without first researching it online. In fact, it was my exhaustive online research that led me to requesting prednisone from my rheumatologist in the first place. That anyone would take any medication without knowing anything about it boggles my mind.
Dave
Florida
I went to an urgent care with a sore throat and bad cough, early signs of possible sinus infection. The doc prescribed me Prednisone 10 mg, take 2 twice a day for 2 days, then 1 twice a day for 2 days then 1 a day for 2 days. Yesterday, my first day, I did not notice side effects. Today, day 2, I woke up, took the pills, ate some oatmeal and drank some coffee. On my drive to work, I suddenly felt extremely dizzy like I was going to pass out. I then had an extreme anxiety attack and could not stop shaking for good 10 minutes. It calmed down but I’ve felt strange all day, angry, easily irritated and more anxiety (shaking stopped).
I called the Urgent Care, it was like the woman didn’t want to talk to me. I told her what happened and asked if I can stop or start to cut the dose since its only day 2 . The woman said NO I need to take as prescribed. I asked what should I do cause I shouldn’t drive. Her solution – Take it tomorrow after I get to work,LOL. I will be writing a Yelp review cause the woman was so rude – but maybe I should wait until this wears off and I’m less crazy.
So my question is can I just stop since its only 2 days?! I don’t think I can take the side effects anymore. Not sure anyone can reply to this quickly.
DazzyD
Northern California
DazzyD. I just started taking prednisone for osteoarthritis in hip, knee, ankle, lower back, neck and wrists. I am usually very active and care for a physically disabled person, so I was experiencing unrelenting pain that could not be controlled with NSAIDs, have allergies to tramadol and oxycodone, so I requested a trial of prednisone. It has been two days, but I am able to move a little more freely, pain is mostly localized in my hip and my feet are swelling a little. Icing my feet is helpful, but not much relief from icing the hip. I am scheduled to have an injection in the hip in one week, and considering a hip replacement. If prednisone can avoid hip surgery, and provide relief from undiagnosed inflammatory condition, that would be great. Any input from peoplel with similar diagnoses is encouraged.
Maegan
Salisbury, NC
I was put on prednisone for an asthma flare up. 40mg for 3 days & eventually tapered down to 10mg. I had a HOST of side effects. Muscle weakness, dizziness, fatigue and for some reason I started getting hot flashes all DAY the morning after my last dose. I’ve been off prednisone for 3 days and still have hot flashes. When will the side effects go away? I’m so afraid.
Monique
Richardson, Texas
Between November and mid- March I had three Prednisone treatments for a recurring dermatitis.
No skin problem anymore but I have very little energy, my mind is foggy.
Are these symptoms still Prednisone side-effects and how long will it last? All my blood tests are normal.
Denise
Florida
I was given prednisone 10mg for a stroke to my eye. The dosage was 10 pills all at once, daily for 7 days, then 9 pills a day for 7 days, then 8 pills a day for 7 days then 7 pills a day for 7 days ans so on. I didn’t take the prednisone because I know my stomach would more likely to have ulcers from all the meds. Can anyone give me advice on the amount to be taken. The script is for 385 prednisone 10 mg. Thank you
Andy
Philadelphia, PA
I recently had a severe case of bronchitis. I was on two courses of prednisone. The bronchitis cleared up, but I developed shingles! When I went to my dermatologist for treatment, I told him about my bronchitis. He asked if I was on prednisone. I said, yes. He stated that it can lower one’s immune system and that was likely the cause of my shingles.
Chris
Uk
Hi, I am a 50year old woman on steriods for my COPD. I started taking courses of prednisone 31 years ago. About 4/5 courses a year also had several injection of steroids. For the total of 22 years.
Then, I was put on 10 mg every day for the last ten years. Now, I feel like my body in in melt down. Short term memory high blood pressure chest pains, low blood sugar. My blood test are showing my steriods are low. I think my glands are not producing the body’s own steroids. Can anyone help?
Bev
Indiana
Asthmatic bronchitis sent me to urgent care, and I was prescribed Prednisone 40 mg daily for 5 days. After 2 days I was psychotic and felt like a zombie and couldn’t think straight, couldn’t sleep, and when I could sleep I had bizarre scary dreams. Nobody told me this could happen while taking this dosage. I could not finish the prescribed dose and cut it to 20 mg for 2 days then 10 mg for 2 days. Breathing better but sad that healthcare individuals didn’t inform me of these horrific side effects.
DLB
TX
In my opinion and from personal experience, I 100% believe that Prednisone and other medications like it should only be used in a life or death situation. Thank you.
Ginny g.
I have Morton’s Neuroma on my right foot and was given a script for Prednisone, which I told the doctor I couldn’t take as it made me very depressed and suicidal. Didn’t listen so I changed doctors! Also another doctor wanted to prescribe Prednisone for an acute sinus infection. Told him the same thing but he still ordered it. Why don’t doctors believe their patients when they tell them something like this happens?
Michelle
IN
I agree they drive me nuts, everything goes wacky when I take prednisone.
vicki
LOUISVILLE, KY
I too have been taking Prednisone. I have trouble sleeping and definitely have mood swings, however, it does help with the symptoms that I originally started with, ie, pain in shoulders and neck, weakness in arms and legs. I am ambivalent in regard to this drug – it sure helps but it certainly has definite side effects.
Kat
Texas
Reply to: Vicki…….I totally agree!!!….I’ve had copd for 15 years & both my primary & my specialists insist on treating me like a newbie when I have flare ups !!!… Don’t give info on new drugs or treatment until I all but scream at them…or side effects!!!….have changed Drs twice & pretty much decided they are all up on cloud nine themselves!!!
Ron
Illinois
Age 80 widowed male. V-tac, A-fib (Pacemaker), mantle cell lymphoma, moderate COPD.
Taking Prednisone 10mg odd days, 20 mg even days.
It has increased my spirits, bettered my appetite, provided more energy, sleep well, no side effects I can determine.
Helen
another example of how we the PATIENT must ask about possible side effects from the Doctor and the Pharmacist. We need to be pro active in the treatment regimen.
Tom
Long Island, NY
I have been taking the tapered dose for plantar faciitis, second dose now. I, so far, have not had any negative side effects. I have been taking Adrenal Gland support, via an herbal supplement. The plantar faciitis is severe in one heel, despite all efforts to lessen the pain. It was bi-lateral for about 6 months, and 2 direct cortisone shots in the right heel cleared that up, but despite 4 shots to the left it remains very painful. Now I am somewhat nervous about the oral steroids.
Carolyn
MD
Thank you for this article. I am tapering off a 10 day prednisone regimen for an asthma attack triggered by the flu. Anytime I take prednisone I know that I will be sleepless for at least 10 days. I can relate to the psychological changes because I turn into the grouch of the week when on this medication. I feel on edge, can’t concentrate, and am having trouble with my vision. It’s crazy that doctors don’t inform you of what may occur while on prednisone. I am grateful for the relief from the asthma attack but maybe the next time I’ll try to tough it out with relaxed breathing, inhalers and rest. Thanks again for sharing this article.
Liz
Berkeley, CA
I am just starting to recover from prednisone withdrawal, and it’s the scariest thing ever!! I was lucky to have a person I care very much about with me at the outset. He was incredible at keeping me calm, and making sure I was safe. I woke from a nap about 4 days after stopping prednisone, and I didn’t know who I was, where I was, or who my boyfriend was. I’ve known him for 8 years!
Though we just started dating 4 months ago. I went through three days without understanding what was happening to me. I drove to a store twice and spent hundreds of dollars without remembering – at one point I even told my boyfriend he wasn’t real, so he should stop talking to me! I didn’t recognize my own name, and asked my boyfriend to stop using it. He refused, and said it was something that I really should remember. He was right! It took some time, but it started to sound familiar and I started to trust him more.
He had to help me walk, bathe, and eat – as I couldn’t do those things for myself. After three full days I made my way to my hometown, and when I saw my Dad in the hospital I felt immediately calm. He was the first familiar face I had seen in days!
The whole ordeal was incredibly terrifying. I work in pharmaceutical quality, and all day deal with matters that ensure the safety of the drugs we produce. It’s so crazy to me that someone so close to the industry, could find themselves so affected by it’s products. The FDA website has a online form you can fill out to report such symptoms. While our current administration wishes to gut the FDA, at present, they are still a very effective organization. Most of the people that I’ve dealt with there are very caring, and take their jobs seriously. If enough people report – it could mean changes in labeling, and directives that the drug companies have to tell the doctor’s they sell to. It may seem futile, but, I’m a believer that every little bit of effort helps. I’m hoping to recover soon – I’ve already made a ton of progress, but when you start at zero, even modest improvements made you feel like superman!
Stay strong my friends!
Missy
Scranton, PA
I just started taking this medicine last Tuesday. If I would have known the bad side effects of this I would have never taken it. It was only given to me for pain and stiffness I was getting in my joints, hips, back etc. I’m 26. The doctor said maybe they were inflamed from possibly having fibromyalgia and basically told me to try this medicine out to see if it would help and then we would go from there. Well fast forward to a week later.
I took two in the morning yesterday and about 30 minutes after I started having a crazy physcotic episode. Heart pounding, heat flashes, severe sweating, shaking, crawling out of my skin feeling, severe anxiety. The medicine reaction completely took over. I felt like I couldn’t control anything. I was pacing back in forth for hours hysterically crying and sweating with my heart pounding. I kept calling my doctors office hysterical and finally a doctor called me back and prescribed me xanax and told me to try to stay calm and to not take anymore of the prednisone medicine. I went and got the xanax and it was still going on after so I went to the ER hoping for relief of some sort. I waited in the waiting room to be called for 3 hours sweating and shaking and dealing with the terrible reaction that literally made me feel like life or death and I wanted to die.
It felt like complete suffering and nothing made it stop. Well, after waiting over 3 hours they finally called me back and all they did was gave me a Benadryl shot and sent me home. I was completely hysterical and shaking and they basically said they can’t do much for it and it has to work its way out of my system. Today still feeling pretty much the same. I’m trying to sit still as best as I can because I’m so exhausted from the pacing all day yesterday. I feel like my mind and my body is at war.
I got only about 2 hours of sleep last night. I once again called my doctors office this morning hysterical and the doctor called me back and said to just keep taking the xanax and try to stay calm and it should pass. I really hope this does because it has been the scariest thing ever!!! I had this happen to me once with a medicine called compazine, but that was way different because within 2 days you’re back to normal. I’m terrified that this is going to have long lasting effect on me especially after reading others stories! ?
I’m a stay at home mom and feel like I can’t do anything and my quality of life right now is really really bad and so is this terrible feeling.. I can’t even explain how bad it really is.. I would have been extremely happy to just have stuck with the joint pain then go threw this!!!
Curt
Wisconsin
I have what is called an undifferentiated connective tissue disease. It started suddenly at age 65 and with the use of hydroxychloroquine sulfate for the past 15 years it seems that God has allowed this to remain in remission. Last June (2016) the joint and muscle pain returned so severely that I spent the next six months just trying to find a way to be comfortable enough just to “get through the day” (I could barely walk). My rheumatologist finally allowed me to use Prednisone again at 15 mg per day. This dosage has not affected my sleep or mental health although I am experiencing muscle weakness, but I am mostly pain free (past 4 months now).
Blood pressure and glucose numbers have risen, but I walk and am careful what I eat.
For me Prednisone is a life saver.
D. R
New Jersey
I was put on a Seven day prednisone treatment for lung inflammation. I stopped taking it the second day, it was like living in hell. Severe anxiety to the point where I would scream in desperation. Never have I suffered from anxiety, two full sleepless nights of rocking back and forth and pacing Which bought on more shortness of breath and exasperation then what I went to the hospital for.
Stopped taking it fast and quick. And will never accept this treatment again. And the worst was no warning from the doctor that this would happen. My heart goes out to my daughter who has Lupus and has to take this medication. From hell.
Lydia
Minnesota
Prednisone has proven to be a wonderful short-term treatment for chronic back pain due to an accident. It works better than any pain medication and it seems that pain meds, especially opiods (sp?) have some pretty bad side effects–addiction being one. I wonder if a person does not experience any negative side effect from 20 mg per day (I weigh 100 lbs) can take the prednisone for more than 5 days. That is how my Dr. has prescribed it; about 4 different times over the past 18 months. It has worked better than anything else and I can still function normally all day. It feels like a miracle to me. Vicodin made me a zombie, Tramadol made me vomit. Flexerall made me hallucinate. Help! Does anyone know why I should not take prednisone if it works for me?
SUE S.
MI
OMG…One year ago this month I had my very first bout…ever…of Bronchitis (I am in my 60’s.) I have always been very healthy, but this hit me like a ton of bricks. I went to an Urgent Care, was given a breathing treatment, a shot, and then…a script for Prednisone. Took it for about two weeks, and then….the after-effects made that ”ton of bricks” seem like a mere..pile.
I could barely function at even a normal pace for at least 10 days, and thought I had been..taken over by aliens. Never in my life have I had such weird feelings throughout my entire body. I swore I would…never take it again. Well..fast forward to 11 months later (a week and a half ago,) when Bronchitis hit me once again.
Went to another Urgent Care, and told the doc what had happened when I took Prednisone the first time. He said he would give it to me for a lesser amount of time. Oh, how dumb I was to accept that. I had enough for five days, and by the fourth, I was right back to where I was last year. But this time, I ended up in the ER in the very early hours of the morning, and went through all kinds of tests.
Doc told me that Prednisone once again affected me, and that it will take awhile to be completely gone. As I type this, I feel even worse than I did when I went to the ER. I absolutely HATE this drug, and like some of you others have said, would rather suffer, then feel this way. Just not worth it, period!!
Helen
Ohio
I have been on Prednisone 3 months after being diagnosed with Hemolytic Anemia. 100mg to start, down to 40mg a day, then after one more week down to 20mg. Prednisone has brought my blood count up from 5 (also had 9 blood transfusions as well) to 14. I pray that I don’t have to be on this stuff the rest of my life. I have an extremely swollen face, uncontrollable eating, dizzy, forgetful, fatigue, heat pounding, internal nervous feeling, and irritable symptoms. Very depressing and getting more angry by the day.
Margaret
NJ
I had the same experience as Helen. I took Prednisone for 5 days for bronchitis. That led to severe nightmares. I suffered extreme fatigue, sweating and palpitations. I went to the ER where they performed EKGs and a chest x-ray. It was a horrible experience. I’ll never take the drug again.
Lou
London
What an evil drug. I was given a 3 day course 6 x 5mg tabs a day (30mg) at the end of January 2017 after being unwell from flu in November 2016. Felt great for a week. Then the symptoms started. Severe vertigo. Anxiety. Shaking. Insomnia and, worst of all, very breathless and wheezing. Thought I was going mad. After a couple of weeks I collapsed and went back to the doctor. He said I still had a chest infection and gave me 3000mg Amoxicillin a day and again 6 x 5mg of Predisone for 5 days more. IF ONLY I HAD KNOWN !!!! I hate this drug. It’s been 9 days now since my last tablet. I’m so tired I can’t sleep. I have a severe fever at night. Constantly thirsty. I live alone so I now dread going to bed, and I have to work as I’m dependent on myself. The vertigo is driving me mad. I am tearful and feel I will never be my happy self again. How long does this last? I don’t want to go back to the doc as I know he will want to give me more. Anyone about to take this drug PLEASE think very carefully. I trusted my GP.
Delisa
Wisconsin
Tomorrow I will be finishing a 6 day course of prednisone for frozen shoulder syndrome, and I will miss the wonderful effect it has had on me. Within hours of my first dose, I felt like the clouds had lifted from my life, and I was finally feeling hope and joy. For 5 days I have been productive, energetic, and positive. My entire personality and outlook on life is different. Somehow my brain has been needing just what prednisone has supplied. I’ve slept well, and never experienced any of the side effects mentioned in this forum. I wish I could find an antidepressant as effective as prednisone.
Dorothy
Phoenix
I was prescribed Prednisone 20mg tablets for sinus problems and itching. After lunch, I took the prescribed dose: 2 tablets=40 mgs. Three hours later the vomiting begins and it doesn’t ease up until later that evening. I had not been that sick in years. Needless to say, I will not longer take it.
Rob
BC, Canada
For those of you who don’t know, a gradual reduction in prednisone dosage gives your adrenal glands time to resume their normal function. If tapered off too soon or you stop abruptly you could have a seizure or a stroke. also, if your taking it for a medical condition relating to inflammation (arthritis, gout, lung infection,etc…) it is especially important to be weaned off slowly so that your adrenal glands has time to manufacture cortisol, which is the body’s own natural pain medicine. The amount of time it takes to taper off prednisone depends on the disease being treated, the dose and duration of use, and other medical considerations.
I’ve had just about every side effect (diabetes, parkinson’s, panic attacks, agitation, insomnia, MAJOR CONSTIPATION, blurry vision, severe body rash, edema, major hunger pains all day long…couldn’t get enough to eat…ever!,) that you could imagine from this drug and was tempted many, many, many times to just quit it cold turkey, but i was warned by my respiratory specialists not to do it as it would probable cause a “seizure or a stroke” and if that didn’t happen I would be in severe pain for many months or even longer…until the adrenal glands kicked back in to produce cortisol, which I mentioned above, is our NATURAL PAIN HORMONE.
I was put on this drug because I ended up in a coma due to pneumonia and when I woke up 5 weeks later I was immediately discharged within a week and given a prescription for 80mg’s of Prednisone for 2 months with a very gradual tapering off method. the drug did the job…it healed my lungs but the 9 weeks i was on it was a pure living nightmare!!!
I can honestly say they were the worst days of my life, ever, but I knew I had to stay on it to finish clearing up the infection, plus i knew what the lung specialist had told me was probable true which had scared the heck out of me into taking them until the very end. i hope to never have to take this drug again!!!
Al
Northern Ontario Canada
Hey Rob when you were tapered down how fast was it ? Was it 5mg dropped a week or was it 5mg dropped every 4 days , or was it something completely different . My father was on 30mg a day . Now they’re dropping 5mg every four days . The first time they didn’t tapper just stopped cold and it sent him over the edge BIG TIME . They called it manic depression . I need to know if they’re doing it right this time because my mom can’t go through it again not to mention my dad . So I’m trying to find out as much as I can as fast as I can any info would be greatly appreciated !
Linda
If I just start out with taking 4 a day of the 10 mg for 4 days than Go down to 3 for 3 days and on. Do you think that will be enough to clear my lungs of infection. I have not took this for many years and the side effects I pray I don’t get. I’m supposed to take 5 for 5 days on down. I just want to get healed with out the side effects of this drug. I might to post this in the other post. Or if I take 3aday and go down till I’m off you think its strong enough to work. Just wanted to see what y’all thought of this. This CPap has messed up my breathing after I take it off of a morning it’s like I can’t breathe good all that air blowing in my lungs I think has made me not want to breathe on my on. Need help on how I should take this drug and still get healed and no side effects. My heart has been beating fast, breathing really slow for about 3 days now legs has been so weak and like I had that restless leg se dome that way I took the prednisone last night. My heart slow down now legs feel better and only took 1 pill. But my lungs feel raw now and my throat.
Linda
North Carolina
I just took my first pill 10 mg. I pray to the Lord I don’t have any side effects. I’m so afraid I will. Does anyone know what I should eat and what Vitms I should take with the prednisone? Lung infection from the CPap machine. I’m suppose to take 5 a day for 4 day than 3 for 3 than 2 for 2 til I’m though with them. I take Probiotics I hope that will help. Anyone thoughts appreciate. I haven’t taking this drug in years.
Kim
I was given 20 mg of prednisone twice daily for an upper respiratory infection, and told i was good to go back to work. I work at a preschool. Three days after starting the prednisone i became increasingly agitated and easily angered or irritated. I ended up getting a write-up because I yelled at one of my children, which I don’t even remember doing. I rarely raise my voice. The only times i have become that irritable has been while I’m on prednisone.
On top of that, both times that I got off the prednisone my entire body hurt. My skin felt bruised all over, even getting dressed hurt. This made my job even more difficult – work sith a class of 2.5 year olds and 3 year olds and it physically hurts for them to put a finger on you – makes it very difficult to interact with them the way you need to.
Mary
New Jersey
Have been prescribed prednisone on two occasions for my Rheumatoid Arthritis. First, along with other R. A drugs (one at a time over a period of months), Consequently I had to be hospitalized experiencing vomiting, changes in my eating habits/overeating, changes in bowel movements, indigestion and acid reflux (was being treated with Prilosec for reflux previous to this time).
Most recently tried low dose of Prednisone (5mg daily). Stopped after 2 1/2 weeks due to side effects even at this dose (especially bloating and overeating). In last few days I have experienced back pain, fatigue, mild headache and some confusion/lack of concentration. Don’t know what I can take for my R.A. but don’t think prednisone is the answer.
Mary
Neglected to mention in my post that during my hospital stay in August, 2016 I was found to have a hiatal hernia, gastritis, distended gall bladder.
Richard
Ohio
I took prednisone for gout arthritis they weren’t really sure but man did it help I feel great but I made some very poor decisions I bought a car and that’s something I would never have done
Pam
Oklahoma
My experience with prednisone was a nightmare of bitterness, shaking, but worst of all was the anxiety and feeling I was “losing my mind”. I NEVER WANT PREDNISONE AGAIN. I took Benadryl to relax & ride out the horrible adverse reaction to prednisone 80 mg before an angioplasty, several days later, felt NORMAL AGAIN.
JUdie
akron ohio
Been on prednsone on and off for 2 yrs. Now for ulserative colitus everytime I taper down to 2 a week to 1 a week I go into another flar up and have to start over with 4 a day I miss alot of work in this timE. Last week I had diaahera for 3 days back on prednsone 4 a day and feeling better. Started humira feb.25 and l am praying for a miracle. Hoping the humira starts working so I can get off this drug.
Lois
I had a chemical face peel TCA. I was prescribed prednisone to keep down any swelling. oral tablets, 4 on day one, 6 on day two, 3 on day three, and 2 on day four- I am wondering if anyone else has been put on a similar schedule… or how necessary it really is to take the stuff.
A.
Australia
I’m currently on 50mg a day. I had severe pericarditis that also developed into adult onset still’s disease. I’ve been taking it for less than a week now. The first few days taking it, I was in the hospital so I was pretty heavily medicated. I’m not one to overthink things and I consider myself a pretty go with the flow type of guy but it felt like that night I had a tough time sleeping even with the Endone, Fentanyl patches, Aspirin and some random sleeping pill. The anxiety and sadness was nothing like I was experiencing before the switch from Colchicine to Prednazone.
It’s now my 4th day on this medication alongside several others. I haven’t had a blink of sleep in the past 2 days. The anxiety has been unbearable and the moodswings are worrisome. I was told not to Google Prednazone and now I see why. Curiosity got the best of me this morning and I see why the Rheumatologist told me to avoid it.
To be honest, in the situation I was in. My inflammation was stupidly high and this drug 100% reduced it overnight. It was becoming problematic, in that regard the drug is fantastic but it has to be prescribed with due diligence and transparency between the doctor and patient so there can be mental preparation. Going in blind isn’t safe especially if you’re not strong minded.
WALTER C
PORTLAND, OREGON
Three years ago I developed aspergillosis of the lungs. The pulmonologist prescribed a short course of prednisone without any mention of side effects, which I quickly developed. When I called his office they told me to call my primary care physician. My primary care referred me back to the pulmonologist. Getting nowhere I stopped taking it. In February of this year the aspergillosis returned with symptoms that had me worried I was having a heart attack. The emergency room and the pulmonologist put me on a more agressive tapered course of prednisone but didn’t talk about side effects. I quickly experienced dry mouth, frequent urination, blurry vision, dizzyness, constipation, and mouth sores. After 15 days of this I went back to emergency where they apologized for not telling me that the prednisone would raise my blood sugar, which was at 605 when they checked. They administered insulin and showed me how to use it for the rest of the prednisone course, which I hope will be less eventful.
alex
uk
I have just been given a 7-day treatment at 30mg a day as one dose but no tapering off at the end. I know it’s a short period but I am already getting dizzy spells and moments of road rage on day 2. I’m worried about 5 days’ time and what state I will be in then. Reading some of comments on your experiences of this drug, I wonder why is nothing is explained when first prescribed. I already have mental health issues. Let’s just hope that I don’t go “postal” on the people I love.
Lori
Midland, MI
I took 10 mg of prednisone for 4 days for a severe asthma attack from the flu that didn’t get better with Breo and ProAir. I knew shots in my joints would make me flushed and give me a headache for several days, but nothing I couldn’t handle.
These pills gave me a horrific 24/7 headache that were worse than my migraines. Benadryl helped bring it down the pain level from an 11 to an 8, but the relief only lasted 2 hours. I had terrible insomnia. I felt like I was going to pass away any minute. The doctor stopped the medicine abruptly, as it was a low dose. So far it has been 6 days since I took the medicine. I see shadows; I can’t see through one eye; my headache is at a level 5; my stomach is a mess; it hurts to eat anything; it feels if my sodium and potassium are low, as I crave salt, and I hate salt. I can’t stand up straight, because my stomach hurts, and I did take every pill after a meal. I drove 1/4 mile yesterday to the store for food for the first time in 2 weeks and I was afraid. I probably shouldn’t have driven.
When will it go away?? This is just from 4, 10 mg pills. My peak air flow did get up to 90% which is good. Was it worth it? Heck no. I put in my chart at the pharmacy to never ever give me prednisone ever, ever, again. The illness is much better than the treatment.
Robert
Illinois
Been on 40mg, then 30mg, dialing back the dosage every 4 weeks for an incurable lung disease. Got to admit, this stuff makes me feel unbelievable. A) I can breathe B) my entire attitude toward everything is 100% positive and very focused. No idea how long this will last but right now, its changed my life for the better.
Regina
waterloo
I was terrified of taking prednisone because of all the side effects I’d heard of but my doctor prescribed it for nasal polyps and I preferred that option over surgery. I took 30 mg for 10 days then 5 mg for about 2 weeks. I have NEVER felt better in my entire life – I was happy, focused, productive, nothing upset me , I was able to work from the time I got up until I went to bed . I didn’t have any more or less trouble sleeping. Everyone is different. I wish I could stay on it – I will miss it , it made me feel like I have always wanted to feel and I got so much done it was unbelievable AND it helped my polyps as well …
Mike
San Antonio
I went into Doc in Box for cold/flu symptoms I could not shake. Was taking MetamucilDM and Zicam. Said continue to take. Prescribed ZPak and gave me a steriod shot in office to help the extreme conjestion. It worked. Also prescription for 5 days @50mg of Prednisone. The second/third day I started to feel the affects but continued to take as prescribed. Even after being off the short time, I still feeling the affects. I had a real anxiety attack, thought I was dying, and could not make the commute home yesterday. Its being attributed to coming off the Prednisone that wasnt tapered off. Other factors played into it, not enough water, hot day…. important to continue to drink fluids when/if you come off of it. Never expected withdrawals after a week of being off it in a short time period. Today, still trying to focus knowing I am not this person typing…
donnie
minnesota
I was given 5 days of 20 mg per day for what they expected was a sinus infection. I ended up having to go back to the doctor because headaches never went away and she gave me a tapered does three days later of 10-10-10 and 5-5. Although I’m pretty sure it ended up being tmj/tmd instead and I didn’t even have a sinus infection in the first place! I still had headaches while going through it so I went to ER like 3 times to try and figure out why I was having such crazy heart pounding feeling and upset stomach. I was also on antibiotics during this time, amoxicillin, for 9-10 days. I felt like no one cared about my symptoms although it took about a week after stopping the pill before my heart calmed, down but my mental state is not nearly back to normal after such a traumatizing experience even after 9 days. I’m jus going to take it one day at a time and hopefully in a few weeks my mental state will be better.
Brad
Huntington, WV
I just started this drug two days ago for my gout. It took my gout away in one day, which was amazing. However, I’m experiencing weird thoughts, shadows in my peripheral vision, and constant chills. My blood pressure feels extremely high but when I check it it’s normal. Upon looking into side effects, I found that a lot of people call this drug a “Deal with the Devil” Beginning to wonder.
Frank . C .
Vancouver , Canada
Must say prednisone worked well for controlling my crohn’s flare at first but as the dose was slowly reduced experienced some rather concerning side affects . First was moodiness . Then bouts of anger . The worst was the extreme anxiety . At one point I didn’t leave the house for five days . Once I got down to 5mg started to get short of breath . After about twenty steps would start gasping for air like a ” fish out of water “. Very scary . Once I stopped taking it took about a week to get back to normal . Dose was 40mg the first week and then 5mg less every week after until I reached 20 mg . Then less 2.5 mg a week until finished . I will never use a steroid again ……….. . Now on Humira for a couple months . So far no side affects and working well . Time will tell I suppose .
Lynn
Arlington, texas
I am so thankful I read this. I feel like I’m losing my mind. Started Prednisone 4 days ago. Im normally calm and easy going. Today I almost got into a fight with a guy at my son’s day care for parking to close. I can’t put two logical thought together, having vision problems and will swear to you I am going to be the next America’s Got Talent Conga player. My heart is beating out of my chest and I can barely focus on driving. But I can breath freely and my sinus condition is clearing up. Today was my last dose. So I’m reading my Bible and asking God to forgive me for dancing with the Devil. Can’t wait to get my personality back in check.
D
Indiana
Knock on wood! My experience with prednisone has been positive. After sarcoidosis being discovered it makes me feel normal & energetic . I only do 10mg 3 times daily currently. Thanks for this article though, you can never have to much information. I will keep this in mind as this treatment proceeds.
Zuko
South Africa
Its really dancing with the devil. Im currently in hospital getting a steroid drip that i begged my stubborn doctor not to give me due to severe side effects I’ve experienced with pills but hey i cant know much than a doctor.after this drip the devil is not going to nail me down again.this medication makes me more sick than iam
Christine S.
Thanks to your comments, I realize that my bipolar stuff isn’t getting worse. My arthritis pain is gone but felt as if my mind was too. Had flu-like symptoms, gastro-intestional distress, brain fog, flushed face, heart palpitations, and was extremely hot and sweaty. I realize now what’s happening. I’ll just take one per day, see how that goes. Thanks again.
Bobby
Van Nuys, CA, 91406
In September of 2015, I came down with Minimal Change Disease (MCD), kidney failure. Prednisone is one of only three meds known to be effective on MCD. The other two are cancer drugs and I want to avoid that stuff forever. I’ve been on this stuff since then and I have noticed some disturbing side effects.
Roidrage, trouble thinking, torn tendons in my hand. I’ve been on this stuff for a year and a half and when I try to taper off my kidneys go south on me again. Starting dose was 60 mg per day for about a month, then down in increments of 10 every month. After 20 I went to increments of 5 mg per day. After 10 I’m now down to 7.5 per day. I sure do hope I’m not steroid dependent.
Deloris
I take 7.5 mg prednisone per day for my rheumatoid arthritis. This keeps the pain manageable. I do much better with 20 mg or more, but I recognize the drawbacks. My rheumatologist is working to find a different, effective drug or biologic that will help me get off the prednisone for good.
ANN
31522
Prednison: concoction of the devil himself. Why haven’t the medical geniuses corrected that insanity by now, since it’s been marketed for 50 years at least!!
Started out at twenty milligrams for one week, tapering to 15 second week, down to ten and finally to five milligrams which I have been on now for several years, can’t remember exactly but four or five, and hate that devil’s concoction. After a year or less on five mg, I had compression fractures of L-1, L-2, L-3, L-4 according to MRI/neurosurgeon diagnosis at Mayo. The back brace I had to wear for months on end was a trip, too! Awful!
BE AWARE: Prednisone sucks the calcium from your bones like crazy!! Horrible, unimaginable, unending pain, worse than childbirth because that’s over in a short time. Further, because of autoimmune hepatitis for which the prednison was prescribed, I did not dare take pharmaceutical pain killers.
Pharmaceuticals are a money mill for the drug companies and investors. That’s it! Thankfully, there is a wonderful acupuncture doctor who is also a Master Herbalist close by and he, the Good Lord and herbal pain management got me through that horrible year of my life. Of course, my back is misaligned and will never be straight again but thankfully, the pain is gone!!
I’ve read that females primarily are victims of autoimmune conditions and that, to a large degree, the reason there’s no urgency in the medical community to get control of and find a solution, or better treatment for this horrible autoimmune condition for which steroids are prescribed. Prednisone is the devil’s work and the genius research community doesn’t improve on it. I long for the day that I can stop taking it!!!! And getting myself gluten-free which was not a doc’s idea but mine, has helped tremendously.
Dave
Kentucky
Well, I received great benefits from Prednisone. I had severe rash, hives and itching all over my body. I had my wife to scratch my back and arms all the time because of the itch. My doctor prescribed Prednisone for me and I took it as the prescription advised and in a few days, it went away and haven’t had it since. NO side effects at all. I feel great!
Claudia Del rosario
Florida
I have a really bad rush, and itching in my arms and face. Went to the ER, and they just prescribed me to take Prednisone 60 mg for 5 days….please can you tell me if there are any side effects? And if this will help…thanks
Trish
I was hospitalized for a bleeding disorder, severely depleted of blood platelets. I was given IV prednisone in addition to platelets. After being released from the hospital, I was given 60 mgs. a day of Prednisone. My heart rate kept getting faster, I could never sleep. My face was getting swollen to the point that I couldn’t close my mouth. After 3 months of Prednisone, I demanded that I be taken off the medication. The physician who treated me found my bleeding problem was due to a stomach ulcer, therefore treatable by antibiotics. That was 4 years ago. I now have permanent atrial fibrillation, I had to have cataract surgery, my hearing is damaged, and I’ve had some bone loss. Now the medications I take for the heart problem are equally frightening. I still suffer from severe fatigue. If someone had given me information about the side effects of Prednisone when I was initially hospitalized, I’d have chosen not to be treated.
Monica
PA
I am a Registered Nurse and 20 years ago I hurt my back lifting a patient at work. The MRI revealed 2 herniated discs. I had steroid injections and 3-4 days later I had a very swollen face and body, very short of breath, I felt like a rag doll. I could hear wheezing and rales on my chest without a stethoscope. My family Doctor had to give me massive doses of Lasix to get rid of the fluid. We both thought this was a fluke. Every time I had a steroid injection, this happened. It is now classified as an allergy. Every back Doctor I go to states “he never heard of this” and “I must be wrong” I had to go to my family Doctor and he wrote a letter stating this is true. Have you ever heard of this???? It seems so bizzare
Roger
Maryland
Take10mg a day for eye. Worth all the side effects!! I have none. Will take rest of my life
C M
Greensboro
I am one of the few who doesn’t have side effects from prednisone. Occasionally I take a dose pack of prednisone when I am having a rheumatoid arthritis flare. It helps tremendously. I respond to the treatment quickly. It is what I refer to as the best worst drug I have ever taken. I am able to move, walk, and sleep without pain. The swelling in my joints is gone. I wish there was a drug that worked as well prednisone but was completely safe. I am also on Humira and well aware of the possible side effects. The pain meds I take, such as Aleve, meloxicam, and others, have side effects too. It is agonizing to take these drugs to maintain quality of life while knowing they have the potential to cause permanent damage. There are no easy answers.
Tom W
Rock Hill, S.C.
I have been on Medrol (a prednisone like medication) for 17 years to treat hydroeosinophyllic syndrome. Now I have lost the padding from both feet and have shrunken adenals and can’t produce cortisol. My doctors tell me this is permanent along with the serious bone loss. I would like to know if anyone else has experienced these side effects and how they are managing to walk without foot padding.
LF
What you are not mention in in your list of uses of corticosteroids is adrenal insufficiency. There are many of us out there who have little to no adrenal function and are hovering just above Addison’s Disease. The problems you and others mention are from high doses. This scares physicians from using low, sub-replacement dosages for low adrenal reserve. My blood pressure had to drop to 85/40, in the face of two separate tests indicating my adrenal function was continuing to drop, before I found a physician who had some experience treating people with my condition with sub-replacement dosages of hydrocortisone. I am now back in the land of the living as opposed to the living dead.
The human adrenal gland produces about 40 mg of HYDROCORTISONE daily. And don’t forget, PREDNISONE is 4x MORE POTENT than hydrocortisone, the end product manufactured by the adrenal gland. Physicians need to be educated regarding proper usage of these drugs. It would seem the dosages used for many of the conditions people have mentioned is way too high, but the medical profession herds together, and it is difficult to change current dogma, even in the face of adequate data.
Joan K
I have osteoarthritis and have had for years. About 2 years ago I fell and all of a sudden had excruciating pain in my legs. My son called an ambulance and in the hospital they did many tests. Nothing broke but still leg pain was unbearable. The tests showed a mild case of RA. I thought I had it because my fingers over the years had become deformed. But it wasn’t bad and I never did anything about it.
I had been getting cortizone shots in my knees every 4 months and had been getting along ok. While I was in the hospital my ortho Dr was called in and he gave me knee shots. Within a day the sever pain was gone. My primary Dr thought it was time I saw an RA dr. I am 77. This Dr said ….really…”I cam make you better”. So I went to him. He put me on the generic Paquinel. (Sp) after 3 months it wasn’t helping. He put me on low dose prednisone. 5mg. I was on that for 6 months until one day I got moon face. My face and other body parts swelled up.
I called the RA dr and he said….annoyed….well stop taking it…meaning the prednisone. I asked if I had to taper it. He said no because you are on a low dose. But I did taper it some. Took a half for a week and then stopped. Well, I got so sick. My hands were shaking, I was throwing up, I couldn’t eat. I called the RA Dr who said it wasn’t from the prednisone and I should see my primary. By this time I had looked up the side effects of prednisone and knew it was the prednisone that made me sick. My primary Dr could not believe I was still on the stuff after 6 months. He says of course that is what caused all the side effects. He said there is not much to do about it. He gave me something for the nausea. But I am still suffering a year later. My skin is so thin that just a little bump causes bruising.
A small cut is a big deal. If I use a bandaid when I try to take it off my skin comes with it. Now in all that time I had the knee shots only once and that was from the RA guy. He didn’t do it right. Just injected it into my skin. So it didn’t work properly. I am now back on my old routine but it has taken 3 shots by the ortho man and some mild exercise to do it. I have become almost totally disabled. I had to stop driving and shopping and doing all the normal stuff seniors do.
My hips are now like swiss cheese. They were not like that before the RA Dr got hold of me. I talked to my primary about him. He didn’t know what RA man I was going to. I asked him not to recommend the man. He says he would never. He would never give prednisone for more than 5 days because it is not safe. It does have its purpose, and that is….if they don’t know what’s wrong with you its the go to drug.
Bernell
Illinois
I was given a prescription for a Medrol dose pack a month ago for severe back pain. This was the best thing ever. By the next day my pain was nearly gone and I had more energy. I call them Magic Pills. My arthritic knee felt better too. Since then my back pain has not returned but my knee pain is returning. Don’t know how long this will last.
alxzba
nc
with all of these negative reactions,
1) why do doctors continue to Rx?
2) why has not the FDA removed it from use?
Pat
Ga
I was given a steroid shot for an upper respiratory infection. The first night I was looking at the clock every hour. When I got up I had a rash all over my face which the doctors office said wasn’t related. For a week all I wanted to do was eat and sleep, even falling asleep while I was eating. I couldn’t think straight and felt as if my mind was in a blur – couldn’t add two numbers and get the same answer twice. I was also dizzy. The doctor gave me no information on side effects and of course with a shot you can’t change the dosage you’ve already received. My husband refuses to take prednisone because of his previous reaction to it and now I agree.
Dee
Kingwood
I was diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis 12/13 and the only thing to prevent blindness and further spreading was to take 60 mg of prednisone daily–my sight in the affected eye returned but the doctors soon realized they must get me off of this drug fast because the devil pill weakened my bones and I had one compression spinal fracture after another in my thoracic area and then in the L1, L2 lumbar area.
I was put on methotrexate and slowly weaned off the prednisone. To strengthen my bones I was put on a 2 year program of daily injections with Forteo. My bones are strong again and I am on Prolia, but today I resemble the hunchback of Notre Dame, I am in constant pain, my body has been completely misshapen from the side effects of prednisone because it eats muscle and moves fat cells and no amount of exercise of dieting can alter that. I was recently diagnosed with a low-grade lymphoma and have to have my blood monitored every 6 months.
Thank goodness my doctors found it in time. So, as the doctors tell me “at least you have your sight” and yes, I should be grateful, but I am unable to look in the mirror. I just turned 73 and certainly doesn’t help. So, beware, the pill can be a lifesaver, but the side effects last forever.
Ruth C
Atlanta, Georgia
I lost the vision in one eye after being treated with cortisone for poison ivy. I was given a shot of cortisone followed by a prescription for prednizone. Within days I could not see out of my right eye. I went to my opthomologist who brought in a retina specialist.
His diagnosis was Central Serous Choreoretinopathy, a reaction to the steroids. The good news was that my vision would return. The bad news was it would take about 6 months. It did return but my eyesight in that eye is not the same.
Joan
South carolina
Was given prednisone for shin splints. (Pharmacist screwed up, prednisone was not prescribed). I was unaware of the mistake and took the med as prescribed for about a week. I developed a massive headache. It felt as if my head would explode. I couldn’t move and not be in pain. No light, no sound. I stopped cold turkey. Two days later at least my head wouldn’t explode. I went to work with sunglasses on because light still hurt. Sound still hurt. The rough roads driving to work hurt. It was another full week before those side effects went away.
Have since learned that prednisone will raise blood pressure and you should not take if you have heart disease, especially mitral stenosis, which I have. I am fully convinced that if I had not stopped the prednisone I would have stroked out and died.
Side effects say headache, but that doesn’t begin to describe what I felt.
Me
Us
Negative reviews about prednisone have increased suddenly after decades of use without all the fuss. Why? Well, as many have stated it’s a wonder drug for just about every condition. AND it’s cheap. AND it can t be patented or reformulated and taken off the market. LET ME REPEAT …its inexpensive (they don’t make much money on it) and can t be patented (time for that ran out decades before the govt started allowing the ridiculous ). And it helps with many conditions that Pharm companies would like doctors to prescribe their newer, and ten times more costly drugs for. So, about 10 years ago they started after doctors with these tales of horror about prednisone and have peppered the internet with false patient horror tales. So now doctors are pushing the more expensive drugs that are actually ten times worse. I’ve taken prednisone on/off for forty years a S non stop for about 5 of those years. You have to take enormously high doses for many many years to suffering reAl damage. As for moodiness, yes, it makes you irritable, and slightly more aggressive temporarily. But not suicidal, or depressed. It does cause you to gain weight. That’s about the worst of it. The WEIGHT GAIN if not controlled, is what causes joint issues, and depression. Not the prednisone. Parma companies are controlling everything you hear about drugs, and what your Dr. Prescribes. You can pretty much assume that if it’s cheap, and prevents sales of more expensive counterparts , it will get negative reviews. Other more recent cheap meds are being taken off the market as their patents expire, reformulated slightly, or combined, repackaged and repatented as a new drug so they can increase the price 3-500%, and put back on the market.
Kelly
NY
@Me… I’m very happy to hear that you’ve had great experiences with Steroids. Unfortunately, there are many of us that are not that lucky. You really should do some heavy research on these drugs and their possible side effects before you make accusations regarding people being paid to comment negatively. Have a wonderful day and again, I’m very happy that your experience with Steroids has been positive.
Francine
I agree, I was prescribed it for severe poison ivy. I have autoimmune disease, and have joint pain, and have fatigue. While on this med I felt great, and I only took half the dose. I did get a water pill for the edema, and an appetite suppressant for the weight gain. It was a short course, but I did experience a bit of loopyness, even when tapering down. But in the ten days I was on it. I was able to clean up my yard by myself. It was a wonder for me.
Deb
canada
I was given a prescription from my Ear,nose & throat Dr,for Meneires & ringing in ears,vertigo,I don’t get verigo often. The dosage was 50mg 1day for 7 days then 1/2 of tablet 1 day for 7 day.I have been leary of taking it period,pharmacy said its ok it is short term. When I told my sister a nurse she said be prepared to gain weight,her friend had gained 100 lbs on it. I am sensitive to even Motrin & Effexor(antidepressant). I am on antidepressants & also celebrex for arthritis,I have decided to call the shots after reading up on it,I am not even taking one of them,so I guess I will have to live with Meneires & ringing in my ears. & whatever else Dr thinks it may benefit me . Thanks for your comments , was much easier to make my decision.
Anne
Wisconsin
I was extremely ill with low blood platelets even I was in my early 20s. My experience with prednisone was almost immediate relief. I had horrible bruising, was run down and easily nauseated. Shortly after taking prednisone I felt like a new person. I was on it for a short time, and the only side effect I remember was irritability, something I wish my doctor had told me about because other people easily got on my nerves! But, I think it saved me from having my spleen removed, and to have some energy again, without the painful bruising was a miracle.
Kelly
NY
Deb,
There are other medications out there to treat Vertigo, etc. If you feel that uncomfortable trying steroids than you made the right decision for yourself, not to take it. I hope you start feeling better soon.
Kelly
Amanda
London,England.
My husband was put on prednisolone 16 years ago for Rheumatoid Arthritis. He suddenly developed RA and other treatments hadn’t worked. Whilst the drug was effective it certainly was a double edged sword. He had to take anti-deprssants to counter the depression/anxiety. Despite this and without me realising, those symptoms worsened and he made a suicide attempt after 6 years on the drug.
Thankfully, he came through and we continued. We were having lots of stress in our lives anyway ( mostly financial worries ) but I have no doubt the steroid affected his ability to deal with life. Some years later he developed diabetes, again unproven, but most likely caused by the prednisolone.
Towards the end of last year, he had a non healing diabetic ulcer on his toe which worsened in to osteomylitis. He had to cease work for 8 weeks to allow for treatment as was in danger of firstly losing the toe which would then lead to the possibility of losing his leg below the knee. Whilst in the hospital the diabetic doctors advised that his Rheumatologist should take him off Prednisolone. He saw her and she agreed-he started the gradual process of reducing the dosage. When down to 4mg he felt awful-not a flare up of the RA but extreme aches and pains & general feeling of awfulness. Spoke to the consultant and she said this is to be expected & to take paracetamol & reduce dosage in smaller steps ( 1/2 mg at a time). I then noticed his mood was all over the place until it got to the point where he was scaring me. So much so that I called his boss to say I had made him a doctors appointment within the next hour but that he was saying he was too busy at work to go. Thankfully his boss insisted he went and the GP explained these side effects were common when withdrawing from steroids and upped his anti-depressants to counter act. Why oh why is there no joined up care in the UK to oversee the WHOLE person?? With my husbands history the withdrawal symptoms could have been disastrous! And in any case, the history was due to Prednisolone anyway! I am angry that he was left to find all of this out himself. Doctors hate the public ‘Googling’ medical matters but if I hadn’t then i wouldn’t know the psychological effects of withdrawal. This drug allowed my husband to live with RA but has very nearly killed him along the way.
Trinity
Va
I was given an Rx for 20mg prednisone 2x a day for five days… first dose was fine, no side effects I could notice.
Took the second dose, started feeling shakey and like my brain wouldn’t stop buzzing.
Third dose had me up all night, shakey, 0 appetite… 4th dose didn’t seem too bad, although still no appetite and brain on turbo!
I was given the first dose on Saturday night, today is Tuesday. Still 0 appetite, brain on turbo, shakey, and very irratable/aggressive. I don’t know if this is worth taking for the next 5 doses.
I’ll certainly never be taking them again unless it’s life and death.
Ali
6 years ago I was scheduled for a CT Scan of the liver. In the morning of my scheduled appointment, I was instructed to take 3 prednisone tablets. A half hour later just b/4 leaving for the hospital I took my HPT medication. Within the next hour, both my arms- from my elbow to my fingertips start to experience pins and needles.
While driving myself to the hospital, the sensation became more intense. I immediately notify the medical personel upon arrival and had to wait for 4 hrs before the pins and needles sensation subside. The attending radiologist could not explain why I had the adverse drug effect.
Yesterday, I was prescribed 30mg for 3days of prednisone for my rashes. I informed the doctor about my prior experience so he replaced it with bemethasone cream and calamine lotion plus chloropheniramine instead. But he suggested me try taking only 10mg of prednisone for the next 3 days anyway – I have not tried taking them yet, just in case.
Have anybody experience the same pins and needles symptom after only their first time taking prednisone?
JJ
Not Applicable
I was prescribed prednisone yesterday for an allergic reaction to amoxicillin (widespread rash). It wasn’t until the pharmacist mentioned anxiety that I was aware of the side effects of prednisone. I went online and read that depression is also a common side effect of this drug. I took one pill (of the 7 total, 1 per day), and the rash has lightened. But I went online this morning to see if I could find any information to help me determine whether to continue this medication, or to let the rash disappear on its own. The course of Amoxicillin had already been finished for two days before the reaction occurred. Not only do I already struggle with anxiety and depression (as a new expatriate), but I also was recently surprised with a terrible reaction to Valtrex (prescription pills for cold sores) that included severe depression. No one had warned me of the side effects that I experienced such as insomnia, fever, naseau and suicidal thoughts, all which I read on the pharmaceutical company’s website when I awoke feeling terrible. With that recent experience, I am quite reticent to take this round of Prednisone, especially after reading so many reports of mental, physical and emotional side effects. I’d rather let this allergic rash heal on its own than deal with a familiar monster that I have already barred my door against.
Pat
Fort Worth
I took 20 mg of prednisone, it have been a nightmare for me. Someone have had to drive me around. I’m not on it anymore and I shake. Seeing a chiropractor now, don’t ever want to see this drug again! Can’t wait til it gets completely out of my system, so that I can get back to normal
Gaye
australia
lm on prednisone started on 25 mg a day now down to 10 mg the symptoms im having are foggy head, ringing in the ears, cold feet and legs, is this prednisone symptoms or from low iron from taking prednisone
Linda
Long Island
I have been taking prednisone for over 3 years 60 mg; 11 days off for 4 or 5 days and then back on to control severe shortness of breath. Every time I finish the 11 days within a few days I start to have trouble breathing and have to go back on 60 mg daily, I suffer almost all of the side effects but cannot breathe without it. I do not like to have to be given no choice. Is there any hope in getting off of it and being able to breathe??
Lucille
CO
I’m a patient, not a medical professional. I have been on Prednisone for 5 years, except for a 7 month period at the end of 14 months on. I am on my 4th withdrawal. I did fairly well on the 2nd time until I went down to 5 ml every other day.
The disease I am trying to manage came back with a vengeance. I read somewhere that a doctor who specializes in my condition said a patient should not go to every other day. It will lead to diabetes.
I am now trying by 4th withdrawal and intend to take longer to do it, maybe as much as 24 months. When I reach a certain point I feel like I am out of control of my body and my mind. It scares me and on my third withdrawal I went back up in dosage because I was afraid. Now I feel I recognize that as a fact and intend to push past it, hopefully.
I agree Prednisone is the devil’s doing and would rather suffer with whatever I can endure of my medical condition, than stay on this poison. I do not anticipate I will ever be rid of my disease. The say people over 70 don’t recover. So, I want to at least have a clear mind and avoid the accumulation of side effects that interfere with my life 24/7.
Cheri Collins
Linda, you’ve tried steroid inhalers to manage your respiratory disease? Most people, even with advanced COPD, can find an inhaler which does the job. 60 mg of prednisone is a large dose. Large. I’m a retired nurse and have a number of family members and friends with respiratory diseases. 60 mg prednisone is an emergency dose; usually a patient is in the ICU if they need this large a dose temporarily to get thru a crisis.
Do you have oxygen at home?
Have you seen a pulmonologist?
Darlene Rogers
GA
My husband was diagnosed with an upper respiratory and sinus infection 1 month ago. He was given a prescription for prednisone for 10 days. He took the whole course of treatment and now 14 days later he is suffering from shortness of breath, edema, muscle weakness, and sheer exhaustion from lack of sleep. He has all the signs of congestive heart failure due to being placed on prednisone. The side effects of this drug should have been told to him before he was given the prescription. Had he known, he would not have taken it. This drug, like many others, should only be prescribed when it is a life threatening situation. He is now on his way back to the doctor that prescribed this medication to him, to get put on yet another bad drug, to remove the fluid out from around his heart so he can breathe. Know the facts before taking any medication. Ask the prescribing physician if they would take the mediation. Many of them would not. Not even the scientist that discovered chemo would take his own discovery.
Kerrie
greater Manchester
Just been on this also for brachial neuritis. Had to start me on 60mg 12 x daily then days 8 and 9- 8x 60 mg daily then days 8 and 11- 4 x 60mg daily and days 12-13 -2 x60 mg daily.
Talk about horrendous and had to start these on day before Christmas eve. My husband had to ask me to take some time out at our Christmas family meal as I was like a raving lunatic. ..snapping at everyone at every little thing insulting his mother.and quite abusive towards everyone.
Really was the best thing I could of done move to another room as I was quite abusive towards them.he had to explain wasn’t me was the tablets …but really quite inexcusable when your dr dosnt tell your this is how it’s going to be.nor to tell you you don’t sleep at all for 2 wks solid. Walk around like a zombie.
I feel it hasn’t worked just made me paranoid rude upsetting and having hot sweats. Breathless at times.shakes.more pain intensities and unable to function normal.these have to be the worse tablets I’ve ever taken. I also experienced pain in lower back and and hips like I was being quose in a vise….truly excruciating.
Had to get my mum to watch me with the children and couldn’t be left alone.
These tablets should only be taken after explained all side effect properly. It’s quite cruel to take these without any knowledge or informative information on the REAL side effects snd conditions it causes.
Elizabeth Diaz
California
i went into my doctor for a clogged ear i have been having for a year and since i got the flu, my ear felt worst. i was prescribed predisone 1 tablet twice a day for 4 days. i just stopped taking them yesterday and right away i felt muscle tenderness/ soreness/ pain. it hurts to touch myself. it feels as if i just went to the gym to do a hardcore workout , which i haven’t done in 6 months. i called my doctor and pharmacy and i was told it has nothig to do with prednisone. Does anyone know how long until this wears off ?
Karen PharmD
St Paul, MN
To Elizabeth DIaz: Do you really mean you were taking twelve tablets of 60 mg daily on the first 7 days? I have never seen such a high dose. You should contact your pharmacy to verify it was filled correctly. Talk to the Pharmacist-in-Charge. If they filled it as written, you should file a complaint that they didn’t question the dose.
angie
Texas
I’ve been prescribed medrol dose pack (prednisone) many times over the years for severe allergies and sinus infections. Even at the lowest dose it always made me feel anxious, angry and couldn’t sleep at all during the entire course of treatment…Felt like the walking dead. I went to the ER last week and was prescribed it again for a sinus infection (and because of my age now 56) I declined the steroid and gladly accepted the augmentin (antibiotic). I am feeling better after 4 days of antibiotic and sleeping well. At the age of 4 my son was prescribed medrol dose pack for severe allergies. I had put him in time out for an outburst and during this time he punched at hole in the wall! I called his pedi and he informed me that kids can have serious psychological reactions! I would warn anyone to be fully informed before you take it.
Randy
San Diego, CA
It was via “divine intervention” that I found this website. My 73 year-old mother had been prescribed prednisone initially back in October. She was having severe headaches and back of neck pain. I rushed her to the ER and they did a spinal tap to rule out viral meningitis. A couple of days after, her PCP (primary care physician) treated her pain as a sinus infection and prescribed the antibiotic Cipro.
About a few days into the Cipro, she developed fatigue and tachycardia (abnormally fast heart beat). We went to the ER yet again where another ER physician ordered a CT Scan which was negative of any findings. This ER physician was the first one to prescribe prednisone to treat what she thought was a condition called temporal arteritis- an inflammation of the temporal artery. Within a week we went back to her PCP, and he referred her to a general surgeon for a biopsy of her temporal artery. This physician recommended my mom continue with the initial dose of prednisone and the tapered dose until completed.
She had the biopsy in late October which was negative for the temporal arteritis. She continued all through November with the prednisone dosing and tapering and completed the final tapered dose on December 2nd (Friday). While in the tapered dosing, my mother developed severe bone/joint pain, insomnia, generalized malaise and fatigue. And after she completed the final tapered dose, she also developed a dry, nagging non-productive cough.
On Sunday Dec 4, she literally collapsed from weakness in her legs and had a low grade fever, with abnormally low oxygen saturation levels in the 80s (normal is mid 90s – 100). We went to the ER and she was then admitted for 10 days. While in the hospital, she was diagnosed with lower lobe pneumonia which we STILL feel was due in part to the prednisone! Doctors of course denied this, and attributed my mother’s pneumonia as an “underlying condition” that was “enhanced” by the prednisone- SAY WHAAAT!!! She didn’t have ANY of these problems PRIOR to taking the damm prednisone!!
While in the hospital, she developed pulmonary edema and pneumonia in BOTH LUNGS due to all the IV fluids/medications given and had to be put on a specialized high flow oxygen machine on high flows of O2 until eventually being weaned off and able to use a regular wall unit/concentrator oxygen. The hospital physician informed us that due to the type of pneumonia my mother developed- pneumocystis carini (not sure of the spelling) the only thing that would treat the inflammation in her lungs would be MORE STEROIDS!!
Well we were just taken aback by this!! We were brought to the hospital in the first place BECAUSE OF STEROIDS, and now they were telling us that what will eventually SAVE MY MOTHER’S LIFE IS STEROIDS? So we reluctantly agreed to more prednisone along with a couple of antibiotics to treat the pneumonia itself. She was discharged on Dec 14 from the hospital with a small “E” tank of oxygen and a front wheeled walker for balance. She now has a home oxygen concentrator and a couple of small “D” oxygen tanks to use when she goes out.
She finished her SECOND TAPERED DOSE of prednisone on Dec 30, and just like before, has developed fatigue, dry, nagging non-productive cough, low back pain and joint pain. However her oxygen saturation levels are normal- staying in the mid-high 90 percent range on room air, compaired to the 80 percentile range earlier this month. I can only assume that the second dosing of prednisone, although it left my mother feeling like crap in the process, did indeed serve its purpose of relieving the inflammation in her lungs.
I am concerned about her potassium levels, as prednisone is known to lower potassium in the body. She does take prescribed potassium, however was advised NOT to take them while on the antibiotic therapy, because the antibiotic she was taken was known to RAISE serum blood potassium levels. A visiting nurse is supposed to come out today to evaluate her and to draw blood–among the labs drawn will be her potassium. I only hope and pray that she’s NOT hypokalemic- low potassium.
I apologize for me and my mother’s rather lengthy odyssey of prednisone. I happen to run across this website while researching for more info about this life saving, and at the same time, life-altering drug.
Kelly
NY
How do I respond to comments? When I hit the orange reply, nothing happens. Thank you.
In
No.CA
Kelly, I am so sorry to hear your moms and your problems with steroids. While this sounds bad, please do not take it thst way. I was also greatly relieved to read that I am not the only one who gets sicker before better on this sinister stuff. I also suffer from striod psychosis, not mildly, very sever. 11 time i have gone into er fully awake, rational, able to walk and talk and become gravely ill after getting steroids. This last time i ended up spending 8 days in icu and crashed twice. People keep saying I was already going down hill when i entered the er. I black out depending on the dose.and dont remember anything, i am a diffetent person. The medcal people have told every time that i will react, not maybe and not mildly. I am treated by medical professionals who should know better like i am reacting intentionally. Subsequently, I am often treated without much dignity or care. At this point having only been out of the hospital a week after walking out. (the attending doctor decided i needed my steroids doubled.) I am no longer crazy but still detoxing from this sinister drug. Just a note, Last month I was diagnosed with osteoporosis as a direct result of all the steroids in just three years. I am only in my early 50s. I hope you find your answers. I would be interested if you have found any other info regarding steroids causeing worsening befor doing any good. Good luck.
Kelly
NY
IN, I believe you meant to respond to the post above mine. Lol, but thank you anyways and I hope you’re doing better.
Adri
San Antonio
I am so glad I found this. I had depression induced by prednisone a few years ago (I already take Zoloft for anxiety and depression). Here I go again to the doc with a sinus infection. My GP prescribes Prednisone, but I didn’t take it because of my past experience. I went to a clinic instead and they insisted on an injection. Depo medrol.
That evening, I went to sleep and woke up in a panic and swear. My heart was racing and I felt so anxious. The anxiety lasted a few days then turned into depression for two weeks. I treat my PMDD so I am always calm before my period now. But since the med induced the anxiety and depression, my PMS body was like, “Hey, let’s just tag along with this one.” TWO WEEKS OF ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION because of this stupid medicine!!!!!
Adam W
Northern Lights
I’d like to share my experience with this HORRIBLE drug those shameless doctors prescribed me…
I was diagnosed w/ Nephrotic Syndrome when I was 19 (I’m 26 now) & they gave me prednisone – 15mg daily to try & put me in remission… The drug gave me the WORST depression of my life, and made me fat & ugly (i’m slim and slender otherwise) – causing me to gain a lot of weight, have high blood pressure, insomnia & trouble in my job at the time.
I took it for 5 months, when all of a sudden I relapsed and went back to the ER – after being interned for 2 weeks, they sent me home with some more prednisone. I took it for another 4 months and couldn’t bear the cruelty of that drug – & against my doctors orders stopped cold turkey (and because of being too poor to have health insurance) stopped going to the doctor. He wouldn’t believe or listen to me! I guess he saw me as a stupid kid. I even asked if there were any alternatives and he flat out said no… in a really condescending way. I don’t get how you can be a doctor but have no compassion? Prednisone gave me suicidal thoughts! Oh and I would wake up w/ hot flashes throughout the night too… horrible. Just horrible.
Then the strangest thing happened….
Shortly after I (for the first time in my life) experimented with Marijuana. And guess what? I got hooked. Since that day I’ve been a pothead, smoking pretty much throughout the day and I haven’t relapsed in a little over 5 years! It’s sad how I relapsed while I was still taking the prednisone the 1st time… but 5 years of smoking like cheech and chong & not only have I not relapsed, but my immune system seems to have gotten better. When I was younger, when I got sick with a cold or flu, it would almost always last longer than usual for me, now I get sick and It’s nowhere near as bad as it once was. I recover a lot faster.
I wish I knew exactly how the Marijuana helps my Nephrotic Syndrome – but I know it does. 5 years of no symptoms, no remissions, something’s going on in my body and it’s positive. The reason I smoke so much is because I believe it is helping my endocannabinoid system – which in turn is healing my body. Google the endocannnabinoid system – you’ll find that breakthrough research is finding connections with habitual weed use and prevention of certain diseases… the info is out there, you have to look for yourself.
The only negative thing about my Marijuana usage is that it’s expensive. But if it was legalized and treated like a tomato… it wouldn’t be so expensive. Since when are tomatoes $4000 a lb? lol… people need to open their minds and listen to stories like mine, and begin to have a little faith in their fellow man, as opposed to some doctor getting paid golf trips from some big pharma company (ever realized how many big pharma stickers, pens, mugs & posters doctors offices have?)… who knows the damage prednisone might’ve done to me had I kept using it.
joe Shipman
canton nc 28716
I just had a stent put in and 2 days later I went to urgent care where they gave me prednisone. All night long I crawled to bathroom and crawled back to bed ending up in the ER With acute gastritis acute urticaria. Next, another ER visit and the same thing happens again. They said it was prednisone that did it.
mary
ny
I was on prednisone for three days taking 10 mg. twice daily
first day, two daily second day, 1 daily twice third day. I had
bronchitis. The fatigue and out of it feeling were unbelievable.
The nightmares were inhumane , I woke up shaking and heart
pounding. I looked up side effects and now I know why this
happened. please don’t take this drug. I also started to get
slightly itchy.
I finished the prescription does today. I will never take this
again. I am thankful for all the comments posted and will
call my doctor tomorrow, and possible go into to see her.
janna
Has anyone pulled out of this if so how long did it take. I am 4 weeks now just waiting to get over my panic attacks. Can someone out there tell me how long does it usually take please?
janna
london
So overall how long can it take to get this stuff all out of your system it’s been 4 weeks for me now and I’m suffering from massive panic attacks I just want to know has managed to get it out of their system eventually and if so how long?
Loki
United States
I had been on and off prednisone for 27 years!!!
Diagnosed with Krohn’s disease at 17 yrs old. My parents were were never told and never asked what the side effects were, About 12 years in I had to ask my doctors again about this drug, and they still Refused to tell me. That night I flushed it all down the toilet, went to the library, and found out the first dose can cause psychosis, which means losing touch with reality!!!
I was furious. A few weeks later I met someone who helped to use nutrition to help my symptoms, but then I started having severe symptoms including intestinal blockages and fistulas. The doctor who did my CT scan said, 20 minutes after the test, that I was going to explode or burst ANY SECOND. And the specialists were only offering Remicade or Humira, no pain rxes, no surgery. So I ended up back on steroids, and for the last 2 years have been taking it everyday!!! If I stopped for a day the pain was UNBEARABLE!
The mental and physical side effects are HORENDOUS AND ARE DEBILITATING:
I was down to 87 pounds and was almost dead before they did surgery. I ran stop signs while driving, had insomnia, osteoporosis, panic attacks, adrenaline issues, PTSD, and a long list of other mental problems including severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
I will never again use Prednisone or any other drugs besides antibiotics and Tylenol. Probiotic enzyme therapy and better nutrition could have saved me from making a deal with the devil, Prednisone.
I warn everyone: the first dose can cause psychosis, and the doctors won’t tell you! My life is still a train wreck from using Prednisone.
Kelly
NY
10mg of Prednisone daily, brought on a severe psychotic reaction. By the 3rd day I was totally paranoid and thought my Facebook friends were conspiring against me, than I thought God was going to punish me, the police were coming to get me, etc… on and on and on. I ended up in a Psych hospital for 3 weeks and was diagnosed, finally, with Steroid Induced Psychosis. They treated me with 2 different meds to pull me out of it. I will never take that med again, which sucks because I have Ulcerative Colitis. My med alert bracelet is on it’s way. Death would be welcomed compared to the hell I endured while on Prednisone.
David
Britain
I am on this drug for suspected GCA I have anger spells with with my wife and vertigo, headache numbness in hands and feet. I was on 40 mg for 2weeks and now on 30mg.
I am experiencing headaches, mood swings, severe hunger. My wife is threatening to leave me. I feel like I am in a fog all the time, my vision has deteriorated and I feel like it is the end coming soon. I asked the doctor if it is normal to feel spaced out taking this drug and he said it is normal reaction.
I am now having it reduced to come off it slowly.
Cheryl
Milton, TN
Hello, I am here for help for the pain of withdrawals from Prednisone, 1/2 of 5mg, but still too much.
After 5 years on it, they told me it made my Osteo was worse, so I stopped.
The withdrawals are more than horrible.I got off, did physical therapy, hurt my arms, could not lift them for a month.
Now, I went back on the Prednisone, trying to taper off, trying to fool this little pill, but I can hardly walk.
They will not give me pain pills and I cannot take medications that may help with the Osteoarthritis. I am trying acupuncture, but I feel hopeless, helpless to live like this 10 or 20 more years without relief.
I am hoping they will allow Medicinal Marijuana where I live so I can see if that will allow me to function with daily chores.
Sherri
Asheville,NC
I’ve been on Prednisone several times over the last 20yrs. This last time was literally a nightmare. I started having crippling anxiety, didn’t want to eat & the weirdest symptom – I was obsessing over sharp objects (scissors, knives, box cutters, etc.) I’m usually a pretty happy, optomistic person. For me to obsess over marking my arms with sharp objects is way out character for me. I’ve never done that before and don’t know why I was obsessing over it this time. The only thing different was the Prednisone. I’m terrified to do normal tasks for fear I’ll have some crazy thought. My Dr. did call in Klonopin hoping I would sleep off the effects of the remaining Prednisone….no such luck thus far.
Demitri
Compton
I was on 50 mg of prednisone for 5 days after the 4th or 5th day it was hell. I feel like I was having anxiety attacks and my throat was closing up.
I’ve been done with it for about 4 days an I still can’t sleep or function HELP ME! what should I do ? I have a feeling my doctor isn’t gonna do anything contact me at dontuclimbxtrees@mail.com
Melissa
Spencer tn
My sighted is 10 and they gave her this medicine to counteract another medicine that her dr gave her, as she had hives from taking Claritin.
Now on day 5 of this med, she still has hives and is constantly itching and now she can’t move her right hand she says that she can’t close it. I need to know if anyone else has experienced these symptoms.
Tiffany
MO
I was prescribed Prednisone 40mg once a day for 5 days. I am on day 2 and a nervous wreck! Brain fog, anxiety, confusion and lack of sleep. I feel terrible.
Kat
Virginia
I’m on 40 mg of Prednisone for 6 months for Sarcoidosis. I feel terrible and hopeless. I feel so alone and no one can help me. I have developed ulcer sores and I’m just scared. The Doctors don’t seem to care.
Rita
Florida
I was prescribed prednisone 20mg 2x daily for 3 days for a sinus infection and asthma. I took the first one and I was fine…or so I thought. Later in the night, I began sweating profusely! My temperature dropped to 95.5 and I had crazy chills because I was soaked in sweat. Also might I add, I did not sleep that night at all.
Jill
My husband was on prednisone for COPD for two years. He had every side effect imaginable. Every time he tried to get off of them he would have another flare up and the doctors would slam him with another boost and then he would have to slowly taper down again. This went on until his death last month. His body couldn’t handle the steroids any longer and his liver and kidneys shut down. He became diabetic also from the steroid. My suggestion is to avoid this drug at all costs. I don’t understand why they keep prescribing it.
Hans
Vleuten, Netherlands
Most of people here have side effects that are not wanted. I wish that I could stay on Prednisone. Because of youth trauma’s I have, generally, not much energy, must sleep very long, and several other symptoms that are quite disturbing. Prednisone that I use now to get rid of nasal polyps help me a lot. I am trying to find out what the point of action is here, and whether there are other medicines that do about the same.
Thank you for listening …..
Tk
Sac ca
I was on prednisone for 7 days 50 mg one per day couldn’t not sleep for two days my whole body was itching I stop taking it on the 6 days the next day I feel like dying my left side stomache was hurting so bad almost end up to the ER.
dj
KC mo
My mom on Feb 24 went to er for shortness of breath. She was given 50 mg of predisone. Next thing I know my mom went into the scariest psychosis I’ve ever seen. Babies i in bed pictures moving . This lasted day and night.
This lowered her immune system ( diabetes. 3 stage kidney congestive heart failure) all these conditions became worse. My mom spent 8 mths in hospital from the time she was given the predisone. She died 10/24/2016 minus a leg amputation. She never was rid of the psychosis.
Michelle
Omaha, NE
I have Crohn’s Disease so this round with Prednisone is by far not my first. It is the worst time I have had on it.
I was diagnosed at 16, and immediately started on it. I ended up being on it for 6 months. And at 16 that couldn’t have been worse. I gained over 50 pounds (I have always been around 100), cried or screamed or would act completely irrationally, my hair started to fall out, sprained a wrist, and both ankles.
And 25 years later on this round with it, I can’t even come up with anything to describe that could be worse. Oct 5, 2016 I was admitted for bowel obstruction. Of course they immediately started me on 60mg. I have severe anxiety disorder and extremely bad depression. They couldn’t understand why my anxiety was so bad even though they had given me none my usual meds.
A week later I go home with a prescription to take 40mg for 5 days. By day 3 was at my Dr with such high anxiety, hadn’t slept, and started to have irrational thoughts. He just upped my Xanax to 1mg. 4 days later I went back in and was on 30mg a day. Only 1 night sleep in a week and anxiety was worse. I begged him to admit me that day so they could get my colonoscopy done sooner so I could get off the med. Nope, he just upped my Xanax to 2mg. I told him there was no way I’d make it the 6 weeks til the colonoscopy on prednisone. He sent me home. 2 hours later I was calling him saying that I was having suicidal thoughts and driving all over trying to figure out what to do. He said to take 5mg of Xanax and just relax. Well, that didn’t work. I ended up in protective custody in ER.
When they ran my blood work and all testing, the amount of steroids in my system and my blood pressure, they said I was being way over prescribed. I left hosptial next day. Called my Dr. Asked if he could move up my colonoscopy now. He said nothing he could do. So I called the Mayo Clinic. They are able to get me in beginning November. I try so hard to explain to those in my life what it feels like and can never explain good enough what it feels like to have the devil control my body and mind.
My Heart
CT.
Okay, so I just came back from the Drs. I had to see someone, a very young someone that I’d never seen before. I have bronchitis, was given two breathing treatments, and 3 20mg, of prednisone. All she asked me was if I’d ever taken this med. before. I answered yes, because I have been on a med dose pack for poison ivy in the past. Without thinking, (I have a traumatic brain injury), I took the three tablets, without question. Then I got the prescription filled, and upon looking at it, I started freaking out. She didn’t put me on a dose pack, but rather a prescription of 10 days, starting off with 50mg a day for two days, 40 for two days, etc until I get down to 10mg for two days, then I’m supposed to be off of the stuff!! I know from taking the dose pac, which starts off at 10mg, and ends at 5mg has side effects. That the heck??? I am going back to that clinic tomorrow, for the third time this week, to get this resolved. I do not want to have all the complications y’all are talking about, and with my having a TBI, I can only imagine how this drug could affect my brain injury. I am furious, to say the least. I will keep you updated, if I can find this message board again.
Mary
Texas
I was prescribed the methylprednisolone dose pack in the ER for severe headache caused by whiplash. On the fifth day, I went to the ER with a pounding heart and chest pain. My BP was 179/96. It was an anxiety attack, and I stopped early, not taking the last 2 pills. My WORST side effects were high bp, heart Palps, elevated heart rate, insomnia, nausea, lack of appetite. I am now 3 weeks past my last dose, and I have seen my Dr twice, and seen a cardiologist, who has done a slew of tests. (I am still waiting on those results). I am finally getting some sleep, and my bp is normal again. But I still not feeling ‘well’, and my biggest issue right now is my elevated heart rate. This medicine is now listed on my chart to not give. I wish I had read these forums before taking this Devil Drug!!
Mallory
Michigan
This medication ruined my life! Was put on it for hurting my shoulder, was put on a low dose and only was able to take it for 3 days before having a bad reaction. New Year’s Day, great way to start a new year, I was doing dishes and it just hit me I felt so weird not like myself and went into the bathroom and threw up, my whole body hurt to touch my skin and everything, I went right to bed thinking I was getting sick. Woke up the next day and not feeling right like I was going crazy and felt like nothing was real like I was in a dream, had racing thoughts, did not want to get up, just could not function. I stayed in bed for several days until I went back to the doctor. He prescribed me Zoloft that I am so terrified to take since I just had the worst reaction of my life. Ever since the reaction I do not feel the same I suffer from constant anxiety about things that I never worried about my whole life. When I had my first panic attack my whole body went numb and I could not speak to tell anyone what was wrong. I went to the ER and told them I just didn’t feel like myself since the reaction and I felt like things weren’t real. Basically got told I crazy and tried putting me on antipsychotic medication. Tried therapy and everyone just sits and asks how have you been doing instead of trying to tell me ways to overcome my anxiety. I just want help!
Linda
Texas
I am 69 years old and have been on prednisone for 47 years for Addison’s Disease. I will die if I stop taking it. It has kept me alive while killing me. I am tired now and considering stopping my “life support”. Just need to arrange for hospice if my physician will agree.
People (my precious family) will argue with me but they are not the one who has opened that pill bottle every day, twice a day for almost 50 years knowing what it was doing to my body. No one knows what a fight I have put up, but Jesus and I. No one can say I wasn’t brave.
TA
USA
I was given prednisone and a z-pak for bronchitis that I couldn’t shake. My xrays showed the bronchitis was turning into pneumonia…small amount in left lung. It was prescribed to me at an urgent care clinic. I was only told about the small chance of not sleeping very well while on it.
I started out at 60mg per day for three days, 40 mg per day for two days, and finally with one pill left (20mg) for the sixth day. The sixth day fell on Saturday. Yesterday (Sunday) my biggest complaint was that I was very sleepy…but thought it normal since I had been battling pneumonia…then had an pretty active Saturday with my 8 year old granddaughter’s skating birthday party.
I woke up Sunday afternoon from my nap feeling like my blood sugar was very low…I was really shaky. Today, is worse…I have felt like I’m in a fog all day long…nervousness, jittery, sleepy, shortness of breath with little to no activity, panic feeling comes and goes…nagging headache…no appetite…very woozy…dizzy.
I reached out to my primary care doc and he pushed Gatorade to flush. He said that this is what the withdrawals feel like….I am livid over the lack of information given. I had no clue that being on this med for only 6 days could make me feel like I’m crazy. I feel so much worse than when I was sick for three weeks with bronchitis. This is a very bad drug…I will never take it again.
I don’t know what to expect tomorrow or the next day…I only pray this gets better. So far…not so much….
Kayes
Riverside, California
Unbelievable medication “Prednisone”, it seems more people experience horrible side effects than those who it helped! I am still battling the anxiety, poor sleeping & fatigue. This has been over a month now, will I ever be the same person I was before this nightmare? I am still having anxiety after over a month of working hard to get back to “Myself”, fatigue and losing sleep makes the anxiety even worse. ER 3 times and no one seems to have an answer, except “It will go away in time”, that’s a horrible answer for someone who was normal behavior before this Prednisone. Some one tell me how long they had to wait to get back to normal(no anxiety,fatigue,lose of sleep and just feeling weird)?? All Dr.’s who prescribe this med, should also tell you of these side effects that you could experience…
lynda
Nottingham
I must be lucky to suffer no side effects except disturbed sleep, I’ve not slept well for a long time so I expected this side effect. For me the benefits outweigh the negatives of this medication.
Sandy
Kentucky
I was put on Prednisone for polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis starting out with 40 milligrams a day for 3 weeks then 30 milligram for 3 weeks and 20 milligram for 3 weeks 10 milligram for 2 weeks 5 milligram for two weeks and off of it and I hurt so bad I couldn’t even get out of bed and I called the doctor and he put me back on 10 milligram to take until I come back in a month and I shake all the time my eyes feel like they’re just jibber jabber and moving all the time and I’ve had flu-like symptoms with it it’s definitely not been a good thing but I am tolerating the 10 milligram better than any of the other I had to go on a hundred and 180 milligram of Allegra to cope with it at the start + pain medication to keep the pain down so it’s not been a good thing it all for me
Sharon
San Diego
I was prescribed prednisone for a bout with bronchitis at an ER just days before I was scheduled to fly across the country to visit my daughter. I wasn’t informed about side effects other than potential sleeplessness, which I did experience. I finished the meds (40 mg/day) the second day of my visit and the next day was dizzy, disoriented, had blurred vision, broke out in sweats, felt so weak I couldn’t stand, every sound made me irritable ( my ears felt plugged), had shortness of breath and my heart was racing.
I felt like I was going to either implode or explode! My doctor back on the opposite coast told me to push fluids and take an antihistamine. I did, then slept for several hours and woke feeling improved but still not well. Hoping tomorrow will be better with milder side effects. Wish I hadn’t been given this drug.
Tess
U.K.
After taking just one dose of prednisone for my severe asthma, I started having hot patches of hives on my body, moving to different parts of the body and got very itchy. Could not sleep for 2 weeks because of the itchiness. The red patches and itchiness lasted 3/4 weeks, horrible. When I told my doctor of the side effects and allergy to the steroids, she said that it cannot be from prednisone because it is used to treat hives! It was caused by prednisone and it happened again when I took it again.
Paige Gant
NC
I have ulcerative colitis. When I am in a flare and bleeding I am prescribed prednisone. I usually start at 40mg and take that for however many weeks (3-4) it takes to get the bleeding under control, then I start to taper. So when I’m on it, I’m on it for a few months in order to taper down. I don’t experience psychotic behavior or feelings. When I first start I will be testy the first week, but I adjust gradually.
However, I ended up on this page because I googled body pain and prednisone. Occasionally while on it I will get pain under my skin that feels like a giant bruise. It starts at the base of my skull and extends down my neck. As the hours go on it works its way down my back all the way to the top of my buttocks. Later in the day it will start to hurt in the front, coming down from my neck on my chest. My husband can’t touch me. Lying down on the bed hurts. I’ve always known it had something to do with the prednisone but couldn’t figure out why it would come on sometimes and not others. But after reading some other accounts, I think I know. It seems to happen when I don’t take my dose at the same time each day. I take it in the morning and on days that I have forgotten and don’t take it until later in the day, I get this awful pain. It will be almost gone by tomorrow. I think it must be a withdrawal symptom. I really hate taking this drug, but when your intestines are bleeding, there’re aren’t many options. Hope this description of my pain helps somebody else figure out what’s going on with their symptoms!
PG
Maggie
angola
I went to my doctor and got Prednisone for wheezing and tightness in the the chest and they didn’t let me know of the side effects of this medicine; about the lack of sleep I would get for taking this medicine. This is sure a trip I dont ever want to go on again. I went to E.R. to get help to see if they could help me to reverse the effect so I could go to sleep and they said don’t stop the medicine and just wait it out and hopefully you can sleep.
DB
Texas
I was only taking 10mg a day and by the 4th day I became psychotic. Severe delusions, paranoia, some auditory hallucinations, etc… That was just the mental side effects. The physical ones were profuse sweating, severe bruising and inability to sleep at all. I was started on this horrible medication for Crohn’s disease. I ended up in a psychiatric hospital for treatment. I will never take steroids again, ever!! I think I’d rather die.
Darrell
Duncan,British Columbia, Canada
I was given prednisone in the hospital unaware of the outcome.
I left the hospital approximately three weeks later on home oxygen and what had happened then and since should have you terrified. I had the I.C.U. nurses fearful enough, that if I wasn’t in a straight-jacket they wouldn’t approach me. I then had a 24hr guard for five or six days even though I had a catheter. I was told later that I was suffering withdrawal of alcohol and cigarettes. I was also diabetic now and recieved insulin shots. It was the prednisone.
The head of the hospital and doctors here absolutely deny the existance of steroid psychosis. It is terrifying enough to have your grip on sanity go off like a nuclear bomb. There are no words that can describe the chaos. Ten years later and Im still messed up. Numerous hospital admittances for respiratory distress and Im still getting prednisone inadvertently and it does it all over again.
A year ago my family was called because I wasn’t to make it through the night;my son who had flown in asked to see my chart and prednisone was used. From dying in I.C.U. to walking out the following day is a good reason to have no prednisone tattooed on your arm or wherever you get an I.V. plugged into. I believe there are those out there who would let others die than be proven wrong and it could be your butt on the line next time. Stand up and speak up for those who aren’t capable…they’re too messed up now.
Landie
Alabama
Like one of the stories included in the original article, I was prescribed the hell-drug Prednisone for a sinus infection. 20mg, two times a day for 5 days. The first day I took it, my sex drive went through the roof. The next 3 days I spent awake. The insomnia and night sweats allowed me for about 5 hours of sleep over 3 days. I was lightheaded, really depressed, having suicidal thoughts, nauseated on and off all day long. I had sudden increases in heart rate, I was incredibly angry, and became delusional (although, I guess that had something to do with the lack of sleep).
Today is the 3rd day I’ve been off of it. Since I’ve finished it, I’m still having depression episodes, I’m staying nauseated, and I’ve had this nearly unbearable tension headache that I guess is contributing to my dizziness and face tingling. On top of all that, OVERNIGHT my face broke out in “steroid acne”, and it’s the worst I’ve ever broken out in my entire life. It’s red, swollen/inflamed, and hurts so bad.
The headache I have now makes me really question my ability to drive, and I’m taking it as a blessing that I’m unemployed right now – as I’d be useless. I felt better before I went to the doctor. The side effects from prednisone are sososo much worse than what I was dealing with before. At the follow-up, I told him all the things I was dealing with now, and that I thought they were the side effects. He scoffed and said “Probably” but didn’t say anything else.
Carol
Pa
I have been taking prednisone 20 mg for two years I just found out that I have diabetes I was told that it could be from the prednisone I weaned myself off it now I feel like I have no life I hurt so bad I can barely move I get fevers and feel like I have a really bad case of the flu I don’t know how long this will last but I feel like I don’t know how long I can go on like this I will never take this drug again it is a killer
Ethel
Greenville, S. C.
Recently changed doctors, because the doctor I had gone to for 30 yrs. misdiagnosed my heart condition as a GI problem. I insisted it wasn’t Had an endoscopy
and a heart attack the next day. Had dbl bypass surgery. Went to an open house for a new practice focusing on seniors.
First visit because of a sinus infection. Augmentin first, didn’t work, called for Z-Pak, he also prescribed Prednisone, which I have taken many times for a sinus infection. The taper pack! His dosage was 6am, 6pm for 3 days! Shocked, called the pharmacist, he said it was safe & is sometime done. Doctor called me, I told him I was scared to take so much & no tapering off. He insisted it was okay.
I am a small woman & very drug sensitive. It has been a nightmare. All the horrible side effects. Days with not sleep. He also said it would stay in my system for 10 days!! Never again!!
This couldn’t be good for my heart, just 5 mos. after surgery, or my blood pressure, or anything else in my body. Also, he doesn’t know me. Only ONE visit! We know our own bodies, what we can tolerate.
Guess I’ll be looking for a new doctor again! What is wrong with them!! I thing it’s just ego. They do not want to be contradicted & they must be right. It is a good drug for the right thing, but for very serious conditions. I will live with my sinus infections or whatever, before I will ever put a Prednisone pill in my mouth. I’m very surprised with the SERIOUS side effects that they let physicians prescribe this like candy, even to children!! I just wanted to warn people & share my experience. I read to stay hydrated & also take Benedryl to speed up getting rid of it. I took a total of 120 mg. I read the effects can last for a long time.
Toni
new york
Im a 33 y.o. female I suffered a back injury back in 2011. I was out of work up until 2 days ago. I love the job I started but upon returning, I set off pain in my back again, went to the ER and was prescribed prednisone. I took it Saturday afternoon with another med prescribed to stop the spasms. I was drowsy and jittery. I woke up today (Sunday) and was ready to hack off the head of my mom with a pair of sheers or burn her alive. I even cursed her out before that. I found the thought so hilarious at first then I felt incredibly sad! Needless to say, I won’t be taking this sugar honey as of this point! This is just from having it in my system 24 hours! The Dr NEVER told me the side effects she just told me to take the 20 mg for five days with the other med and if it doesn’t work to come back for an MRI. Well, it didn’t work much for me truth be told. I slept but any little sound would make me jump out my sleep with the jitters.
Jim
Portland, OR
I have been on Prednisone for about 1 year at 10mg per day for severe arthritis. Has been a total life saver, with minimal side effects. My doctor has refused to continue on with this treatment and has tapered me off. The pain is so bad I can’t see any reason to continue living. Does anyone know of a doctor in the Portland Oregon area that is not afraid to prescribe prednisone for long term use. I am 70 years old, it’s not like I am going to live forever.
Anthony
USA
Early in the month of Janaury 2014 I was put on large doses of prednisone 20mg for more then 2 weeks and tapered down to 5mg then off and on between 10, 5 and,2mg. My skin would bruise with just a touch and bleed, when they healed it left my skin white (no pigment) where all the bruises were before.
Then towards the end of the year all my teeth turned black, solid black and they all eventually broke off leaving me with just the root of the tooth sticking up, not a very good picture. ALL OF THIS TO CONTROL MY CROHNS and it worked.
Then I also had mood swings, always tired and crying at stupid things. I don’t usually cry I was 64 and a Veteran of Vietnam. I would cry if somebody got fired at work or in a accident it was crazy. However I still have to take it to control my problem only on 2mg for now every day of the year.
Nancy
TX - Texas
I am taking 20 mg prednisone daily and am reluctant to try withdrawal. I am 85 yrs old and have diabetes and many other autoimmune conditions. I did withdrawal years ago and it was a fragile and unpleasant experience. I think it likely best to just remain on the current dosage and wonder what other opinions might be. Pain is already in issue with diabetic neuropathy and also venus reflux and I’m not anxious to take on more pain.
Kathy
California
I just ended a step-down prescription of prednisone two days ago. I have a herniated disc in my neck, which is why I was prescribed the medication. I can’t recall the dose, but I had to take three pills for 5 days, step down to two pills for 5 days, and then down to one pill for 5 days. About 7 days in, I realized that I was feeling very sad and moody and on the verge of crying all the time.
I do not take medications for anything else, so it was fairly easy for me to pin point the issue. I told my doctor about the mood swings, but that I wasn’t concerned enough at the time to stop taking the medication because I wanted to ensure that the inflammation in my neck was reduced.
Knowing what I was dealing with helped me to deal with the mood swings, but I have to admit that if I had to be on the medication longer than 15 days, I would have told my doctor we needed to do something different. I’ve read that it can take several weeks for the medication to leave your system, but I am already feeling much better now that I am not taking the medication. This is the first time that I have ever experienced this sort of issue with a medication, so I would definitely encourage anyone taking the medication to really be aware of the side effects.
LeRon
NY
I am a 56 yr old healthy male who suffered from extreme elbow pain due to tennis elbow / tendonitis. My Dr Rx the 5 day pack of prednisone to reduce the inflammation on 7/27/2016.
I began taking the pills on the 28th each pill is 4 mg. I was fine at first… I noticed the pain and swelling was down a bit. However on the morning of the 31st I was is such pain. My stomach hurt so bad that it was hard to breathe. I could not sleep, I was shaking, nauseated, could not function or concentrate.
I know you are supposed to taper from this medication, but I did feel this was becoming a serious matter so I stopped completely. Today is now the 6th of Aug and the symptoms have become less severe but they are still there. I feel bloated and full and have a nasty pain in the right upper abdomen. And a really annoying side effect is after getting a full night of sleep and after being up only an hour or so I feel like I have never been to sleep and I must lay down for about 4 -6 more hours.
Not yelling at anyone here but I would advise you NEVER TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION unless your life depends on it. If I had to sum up how I feel just imagine coming down with a really severe case of influenza with all of the bells and whistles “fever, body aches, nausea, headache, diarrhea,loss of appetite and becoming sore to the touch”. Which also means EVERYTHING you do or touch makes you feel awful…yup even sex became non existent, you feel sun burned everywhere.
Next week I go to see the Dr who Rx this for me, I know each person is different, but he will get an ear full from me.
I just hope all of these symptoms go away soon, it definitely ruins your quality of life in ways you cannot imagine.
NEVER AGAIN !
Sue
Usa
I was put on a 5 day pack of prednisone for a reaction to a bee sting that was swelling out of control. The pills came after a shot in the doctors office of some other type of steroid. Insomnia, nervousness, heart palpitations, uncontrollable crying, and I freaked out on my long distance boyfriend about how we never get to see each other, even though we just got home from vacation. I don’t like who I am right now. This is terrible. 2 days left. It’s basically like I have a perpetual panic attack. I just want to pace around the house and cry. I’d rather still have the swelling and pain from the bee sting. Don’t take it unless it is required to keep you alive.
Debbie
USA
Folks, sorry to hear these horror stories.
After almost three long years, I was finally diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia (“the suicide disease”) after extensive surgery on my face for invasive basal cell carcinoma. Having been on Gabapentin for 1.5-years, the neurologist (a new one) changed my medication to Tegretol 200mg/2 time per day and a short (14-days) dose of prednisone, 10mg/3 times per day.
I don’t know if it is a combination of both medications or just one or the other. I do know,
I feel better than I have in years.
I am one of the lucky ones, I guess, I have had no side effects.
Good luck to all!
Susan
NS
I am very surprised at all the negative comments. I have calcium crystals in my joints and I am unable to take anti- inflammatory drugs. I have had cortisone shots in my knee with no side effects. When my wrists became so inflamed I could not use them I was given Prednisone and took 15mg a day for 2-3 days. Was told to only take this drug during severe attacks. In the past couple of months I have had three severe attacks, and have had no side effects. Belive me when you have no use of your hands you will try almost anything that might help.
Tee
USA
I have taken methylprednisolone (6?) day packs before with no problems for pain. This past week my dr put me on prednisone 20mg twice a day for 5 days for an itchy skin problem and I started having mood changes. I thought I was about go to insane between the itching and the abnormal mental problems. By the fourth day, yesterday, I was feeling almost totally out of control and throwing stuff, which is not me whatsoever. Something made me look up the side effects and sure enough “mood changes” and mental disturbances” listed as “severe”. There were only 2 doses left but I went ahead and stopped taking them. It’s been almost 36hrs since my last dose and I’m feeling so much calmer and saner. Is there any reason why I would have this reaction to the prednisone but not with the methylprednisolone?
e
dallas
I was given prednisone because I had been diagnosed with dermatomyositis , an autoimmune disease. I can not remember what the dosage was but it was enough to give me the moon face and a lump on the back of my neck. Other than those two s I didn’t show any other signs of side effects. However, after taking the Prednisone for a while, maybe a few weeks, I woke up out of a dead sleep in the middle of the night in excruciating pain. My right knee felt like someone had broken it with a baseball bat. The pain was unbearable. To make a long story short, after two weeks of taking advil for the pain and my knees swelling up like tree trunks my doctor finally did an xray of my right knee and found that I had developed avascular necrosis! Avascular necrosis is typically not even listed as a possible side effect. Avascular necrosis cuts off the blood supply to joints and/or organs and can obviously cause severe damage to your body. Many people get the avascular necrosis in their hip and have to have it replaced! I was very lucky that I did not have to have my knees replaced as I was only 41 years old when this happened. I know that my knees are both damaged from this and I don’t know what the future holds with respect to ever having to get them replaced.
Lisa
Florida
I have taken Prednisone on and off for over 20yrs… I suffer from chronic hives & delayed pressure hives with no known reason… I have the moon face, But that is it… This is the only drug that works for me & definitely my drug of choice when I have a flareup… I’m not sure how I will feel 20yrs from now seeing it does have so many side effects… I know that it’s a horrible drug to take, but I do try to out weigh the good with the bad if I can’t walk because I have a flare up I take it… It sucks that I could be potentially hurting myself, but without it I wouldn’t have a meaningful life…
Jan
Missouri
I am currently weaning off–in fact just completing the weaning process yesterday of Prednisone that I took for sudden hearing loss. I have Meniere’s. After 2 days of 30 mg. 2 x’s a day, my b/p spiked in spite of two b/p meds I take. And my head felt like it would burst! Also, had constipation for 4 days but the horrible head pressure and extreme dizziness are the worst part. I also felt very ‘anxious’ and shaky! Today and no pills anymore–my b/p has dropped to very low–and though I felt better this morning, the awful dizziness and pressure is back and I feel really horrible. Hoping a few days off will help. But–I felt this way prior to taking the meds and had the hearing loss going on, so even though I had similar symptoms years ago when first diagnosed with Menieres’, I knew it was used to help prevent hearing loss. I hear things–almost too loud now but conversation, my own voice sounds weird and loud and TV and normal conversations are very hard to understand>Had MRI last week–waiting results.
Yvette
I had the same thing for almost 2 years and it was my gallbladder I had gall stones
Babs
Missouri
I am trying to find out why I have the exact OPPOSITE reaction. I have been on anxiety and depression meds for 20 years. Lately, nothing has helped and am in constant depression. I have total hearing loss in my right ear and found, too late, an Otologist, that does injections thru the eardrum to get medicine near the cochlear, this usually needs to be done in a timely manner to the symptoms (which feel just like fluid behind the ear drum) and I had gone thru the doctor, then ENT, before I got to him.
This time (4 days ago)my left ear had symptoms and needless to say I was scared to death. He got me in immediately and I have been on Prednisone 60mg for 4 days now. I have not felt better in years!!! I feel like my old self. My hearing returned and the pressure subsided in two days. I return in 3 days to have it checked, if there is not enough progress he will do the injection. He has me on 6 days of 60mg per day, then tapering. He did warn of the side effect possibilities. I had once before taken a smaller regimen for sciatica, and even on that short time period felt so amazingly better. It lifts the depression, gives me back my energy, makes me feel like taking care of myself. I don’t think I will need to stay on it (I hope not), but it will be there when needed for my hearing.
My question is — has anyone with major depression/generalized and social anxiety had similar experience? If so, was the way you reacted to the corticosteriod of any help to your Psychiatrist in deciding how to treat the depression/anxiety????
And to those with sudden sensorineural hearing loss who react badly to the corticosteriod – look into the possible injection — I found Otologists to the most likely to know/use this — but it must be done ASAP — before the damage becomes permanent (less than 2 weeks). It was not that bad!!! Hardest part was not swallowing for 30 minutes so medicine not lost down the eustation tube;-) I lost the hearing in my right ear over about 4 ‘instances’ of what doctors thought was just fluid in middle ear and that is JUST what the symptoms feel like. Only when I realized my hearing was TOTALLY gone did I seek out further specialists. I think this bout in my only hearing ear was brought on by extreme stress from caregiving for 98 and 94 year old parents for 10+ years (along with other mental health issues). Lowered my systems ability to block the virus from damaging the inner ear.
Bek
I had the same thing, positive reactions to predisone. I was on the 6 day taper pack. I have ADHD and as soon as I started taking the meds, I had increased energy, better focus, directed motivation, loss of appetite, increased happiness and decreased sleep.
It was a lot like Ritalin, minus the deer-in-the-headlights feel. You’ll find a bunch of information on this in the ADD and Depression websites. Most of the talk leads to the Adrenal Gland. Some people did talk about negative side effects after finishing prednisone. The recommendation was to see an endocrine specialist.
Rob
Nyc
Babs lost hearing as well JUNE 26 in Boston before a 6 mile race as awoke deaf. Put in oral 2 weeks 60 mg and three injections as well saw treatment asap 55 yo perfect health ran Boston marathon this year. 5 weeks tinnitus is worst part. I’m worried as no real major improvement. Losing hope as your in same timeline this moth. How are you doing and what’s the prognosis?
Helen
Texas
I’ve been taking 5mg. of prednisone for almost a year. I took an initial large dose to get rid of the inflammation and swelling of my joints. It has been a miracle. No side effects like mentioned in other reviews.
Tara
FLORIDA
I have been on 50 mg for 3 days (prescribed for 5 days). I woke up in agonizing pain today. From the base of my skull down is in excruciating pain to the touch. I am not going to take anymore. I saw a physician because I had some symptoms of a blood clot. It turned out to be a blood vessel that had burst (thankfully). They gave me prednisone and pain meds and I really thought it would help. It did NOT! :-(
Ann
London
Hi I have asthma and I get severe chest infections/wheeze a few times each year and I simply wouldn’t breathe without steroids. In the past I have ended up in hospital due to NOT getting a steroid prescription for my infection.
I find that the trick is to only take the steroids when you really need them ect for your condition, short courses throughout the year can work well. Also I always always come off them slowly once feeling better,never just STOP them ,even a short course as this will course you a shock to your body until your own steroids kick back in ect. Taper them over a few days slowly and it’s much easier, I know this as I’m age50 and have had asthma for 25 years.
Side effects are difficult at times and effect everyone differently be I find the sleeplessness difficult, I drink camamile tea or milky drinks before bed and it helps too.I als e.g milk yogurt ect daily and take supplements of calcium to protect my bones.I find a positive attitude helps e.g.im grateful I can now breathe ect as Prednisone is a great drug for many things, I don’t dwell on the side effects as again not everyone gets them and I have dextra bone scan every 2 years, to check my bones, very important.
So I advice try and weigh up the pros and cons before taking this meds, yes there are side effects yes they are can be vile but for myself for example I prob wouldn’t be around if it wasn’t for this drug.I won’t live my life fearing what might be, gratefully for my day ect best regards to you all
Ann
Staffordshire
Hi I have asthma and I get severe chest infections/wheeze a few times each year and I simply wouldn’t breathe without steroids. In the past I have ended up in hospital due to NOT getting a steroid prescription for my infection. I find that the trick is to only take the steroids when you really need them ect for your condition, short courses throughout the year can work well. Also I always always come off them slowly once feeling better, never just STOP them, even a short course as this will course you a shock to your body until your own steroids kick back in ect. Taper them over a few days slowly and it’s much easier, I know this as I’m age 50 and have had asthma for 25 years……….
Side effects are difficult at times and effect everyone differently be I find the sleeplessness difficult, I drink campanile tea or milky drinks before bed and it helps too with the mood swings that steroids also course. I also up my calcium intake e.g. milk yogurt ect. daily and take supplements of calcium to protect my bones. I find a positive attitude helps e.g. I’m grateful I can now breathe ect as Prednisone is a great drug for many things, I don’t dwell on the side effects as again not everyone gets them and I have dextra bone scan every 2 years, to check my bones, very important.
So I advice try and whey up the pros and cons before taking this meds, yes there are side effects yes they are can be vile but for myself for example I prob wouldn’t be around if it wasn’t for this drug. I won’t live my life fearing what might be, gratefully for my day ect. I do however feel that G.ps aren’t always informative enough to people who have never taken it because the more dangerous side effects happen only after many years of use, we have a right to be informed what the negatives of the drug are. Best regards to you all.
Trish
British Columbia
I was (finally!) diagnosed with central neurosarcoidosis. It took nearly 4 years to get to this point, as well as out and out arguments with my neurologist, and the support from my veterinary community. I am lined up for Rituxan Tx, amclearing the hurdles, and two specialists decided that Methylpred pulses were indicated. I received the usual blah blah, sleeplessness, energized, weight gain and increased appetite, etc. I was even Rx’d 1mg Atavan 90 tabs SL! So I received the first pulse, 1000mg IV. When I got home, things seemed bright, like I’d had my pupils dilated for an eye exam. Then I literally passed out asleep. A friend came by late at night with ice cream (I’m not a big fan of the stuff at the best of times), and I could not stomach even the thought of eating. I fell back asleep.
I was supposed to have three pulses, one a day for three days in a row. I had to skip every second day due to my work schedule. I was exhausted the next day, couldn’t eat, felt odd. Next day had pulse #2. Got home. Things were really bright. Then I passed out asleep again. Could barely move, could not even dream of eating. No appetite at all. Began feeling like I had something inside me that I had to get out. Cancelled third pulse on the Friday.
I was nearly psychotic and convinced I would be better off dead. I went to work on the Friday, the day I should have had third pulse. Someone blocked me in at work in the parking lot, and I couldn’t leave. My coworker came to move his car, and I was seriously considering running him over. I would have felt no remorse at all. I just needed to leave. I was desperate! I got myself home, fell into bed, and didn’t even move for over 20 hours. All I could do was sleep. It’s good, or I would likely have committed suicide. When I started to feel the effects wear off, I was so relieved.
I have now ordered a medicalert bracelet stipulating no steroids. I would rather be dead in a ditch than go through that again. I lost the 10 pounds that everyone else supposedly gains. I feel worse than when I first had the methylpred, and it’s been 5 weeks. I found out that some people receive no benefits from it, and in some cases some of them actually get worse.
Patty
Maine
I started taking them for sudden hearing loss in my right ear. 60 mg for 14 days then taper down for 5 days. I have experienced tremors in my hands, nervousness, confusion, sleeplessness, irritability, weakness in my legs and hands, feet are hot, headaches, at times blurred vision, and there is no way I could drive. Every corner I felt I was going to crash, talk about a panic attack.
And now I have been started on another 3 weeks. When this is done, I will not do it again.
My ENT does not believe you should be out of work for the side effects. I will probably lose my job and my hearing.
Lori
Knoxville
I was taking it from Saturday to Wednesday morning and I’m so sick I stop taking it it is now Thursday evening I’m all over the place I’m scared I just read your articles so I took a half of one because I don’t want to suddenly stop taking it I feel like I’m dying period I’m so irritable my joints hurt my fingers hurt I suddenly within 5 minutes broke out with acne all over my face which I never have this is the worst thing I’ve ever put up with it’s horrible
Jan
Aiken, SC
Lori, I feel for you. Are you sure you broke out in acne, or was it hives? When I was weened off of it, I got hives and had to be put back on and weened off slower. You may want to talk to your Dr. if they continue. I had all the symptoms that you are describing and more, but eventually it does get better.
Jim
Hi, I had a severe hand issue (swelling, joint pain that ran all the way up to my shoulder blade) that was impossible to sleep due to the pain. I thought I had Lyme disease and went several times to clinic, and had blood tests. Turns out it was carpal tunnel, and dr prescribed prednisone and arm braces .. Yeah right… But it worked. Started 50mg prednisone x 5 days, then 40 for 5 days, 30 for 5 days etc. just finishing the 30mg and hands are better. … Feel like I used to. Side effects?? … Some insomnia but nothing a cold beer or two can’t cure. I was scared, now relieved. :)
Betty S.
Iowa
I was put on Prednisone for chest congestion. Small dose 15 mg then boosted it a few days to 20 mg then slow drop off. I have Peripheral artery disease and other conditions. I swear I hadn’t felt that great in 10 years, but was told I couldn’t stay on it. Everyone I know hates prednisone. After being off about 10 days though I have experienced a possible herinated disc in low back. For this I was put back on Predisone. This is a higher dose and I have experienced real short temper swings. Is this the Predisone or the horrid pain. It took 2 days for the pain to subside . I understand it is a miracle drug, yet so many scary side effects. Why do some people feel so good and most feel so bad?
JGirl05
Alexandria, Va
Thank you for this thread. I went to ENT today who said I should take an antibiotic for 2 weeks plus prednisone for 6 days-starting off with 60 mg 1st day then decreasing each day. This is for a severe sinus infection. After reading this thread, I WILL NOT take the prednisone. I’m 50 years old and having menopausal symptoms like sleepless nights and depression. The last thing I need is to take something that sends me over the edge. Thanks everyone.
Lullaby
Prednisone…I don’t even know what to say about it. The first time I took it, I had a severe allergic reaction to something and was covered in hives. They were so terrible it kept me from sleeping for two days straight, so when the doctor prescribed me some prednisone it was like the miracle drug. The hives were going away within an hour, and there didn’t seem to be many other side effects. I was aware the the prednisone was effecting my thyroid, but it wasn’t severe enough to warrant any concern. The lack of sleep wasn’t a problem since the hives kept me from sleeping anyway and I’m already an insomniac, so there was no problem there. I tapered off the medication, and everything was kosher…for a while, that is.
The hives start to come back and I’m scheduled for allergy testing. Problem is I have to be taken off all medication for a week, and you could see how that would be an issue because without the allergy medication I was prescribed the hives were bound to come back in spades. So, the allergist prescribes me prednisone again. First few days, all is good. Yeah, a little bit of nausea and insomnia, but that’s nothing new for me…but then it gets bad.
I’ve always had thyroid problems, so I’m honestly pretty used to getting heart palpitations as a result, even wit medication. Already seen a specialist and they’re benign, so no need to worry. However, I’ve never, ever had them like this before. I swear, few days after taking the prednisone, my heart palpitations get severe.
I’m talking anything from palpitation a minute to thirty. I know, rationally, I should contact my doctor immediately about this change, but my thoughts are I’ve had palpitations before, that they’ll pass. No cigar, been dealing with them on this level of severity for days now. Then the migraines start, severe migraines that really nothing can help, not to mention the lack of good sleep is not helping. Everything is stacking up on top of each other, and it’s freaking me out. I don’t know what to do, how to handle this, don’t know if this stupid medicine is turning up my anxiety and paranoia to the max or what. All I know is that, given the chance, I will not take this medication again unless it is absolutely necessary. I shouldn’t have taken it this second time, I should’ve just waited it out.
Cathy
Fargo
I have had rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia for over 20 years. I was recently diagnosed with Sjogrens Syndrome and am on Enbrel, Plaquenil and Gapabentin. In February I was diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatic which is very painful especially in my feet, shoulders and arms. I was started on Prednisone 20 mg a day which helped the pain after a few days. I recently started weaning off of it. I’m really struggling because my symptoms are coming back which means I would need to increase the dose again. However the side effects are terrible and haven’t improved with decreasing the dose. I have that awful moon face look and terrible weight gain. I also ended up with diabetes and am on Insulin and oral medications. I am retaining so much fluid and am very short of breath and now am on Lasix. Which is the worst of 2 evils?
Catherine
FL
I took just one 20 mg prednisone pill. Next morning, my stomach was like being 7 months pregnant. I find it very abnormal. This lasted all day yesterday. I decided to drink a bottle of that magnesium nastiness. It’s cleaning me out, however, my stomach is still huge. It’s 3:42 am Fri. I took the pill Wed morning. I am very sensitive to meds. I’m on the lowest dose of lexapro and klonopin. I was told there would be no interactions. Now, I’ll have to go see my reg. Dr today.
tammy
Maryland
Me too, after day one. Even my husband asks me if i’m pregnant. When I get up from a sitting position, it feels as though I’m pregnant, having to maneuver around my hard belly. I’m day 4 off of prednisone and still feel that pressure. It’s my belly. I cant sleep right because there’s so much pressure. My sides, back, and shoulder are feeling effects from it too. It’s hard as a rock still after 4 days off of the prednisone. I get these weird brusies on my sides. On line forums and comments say that it could be allergy to food. But i’m here to state that if I have allergies to food, I never experienced this symptom until I took prednisone. Did your symptoms ever go away? I’m fearing this will last forever????
Taylor
England
My husband has been diagnosed with Polymyalgia and given Prednisone. The side affects are awful, and we should have been warned! Having seen the impact on my husband and us, I would advise NOT TO TAKE this drug unless absolutely necessary. He has been the angriest I have ever seen him (and we have been married for 30 years). He manages only a couple of hours sleep a night, has panic attacks; his heart races all the time; he has become fixated on things, has put on weight, and his face is swollen!
Do anything you can but take this drug! The manufacturer has A LOT to answer for. If anyone caused these symptoms in a person in any other environment but the medical profession, they would be locked up! They are character and life-changing for all the wrong reasons. You cannot stop the drug and switch back to how you were within a day or so. Instead, they are disabling and life-altering. The drug has impacted our relationship, family life, and goodness knows what his work colleagues think!!
I am no alarmist. I am a professional executive and made of solid stuff, but life as a user or partner to someone taking this drug is wrong on many fronts, and in my experience has by far outweighed the initial problem we were looking for assistance with.
Loren
L.A
I have lower back chronic pain caused by the L5 stenosis also my disk is badly degenerated The first time prescribed was back 2013 The first week was a challenge Mild to severe depression, anxiety’s, sleepiness, actually I was up for over 48 hrs. wondering , talking, crying, crazy stuff. It took me one week 10mg 3 times a day and a quit actually I didn’t tell my Doc because I was totally disoriented even to discussed. I was done. The after results was amazing Still I take Hydrocodone 3 times a day it does mask the pain not the inflammation. Prednisone is a inflammation healer Took it for one week did the work for a whole year . 2 years later I started again this time I complete the 3 weeks It was difficult same symptoms but I was able to finish. It has been over a month a totally different person I know its going to last also Im aware is not a typical every other month medication and I m deeply grateful for the work it does. Yes I feel all the neg reviews are real and I hope the best to you all. That’s my story.
Amelia
Washington
I know some of these people are upset w/ this drug, however, I suffer through it. Terrible lumbar spinal pain. Cannot walk due to pain. Can barely move each leg.
It helps me and, even though it is not easy to take, dear God, the PAIN is relieved. I am alone, w/ severe scoliosis from polio. Aging, but have a wonderful spine surgeon who has done cervical fusion also. I want to take care of myself ’till I die & not go into a nursing home. (Many MRI’s in last 22 yrs.)
I may have to have another ruptured disc repaired w/ surgery but this med is a Godsend.
Medicines like this have their place and at times are miracle drugs.
hank
red bluff,ca.
my life has become surreal. I am not taking prednisone , but my wife of 23 years is on it and cannot come off of it or it will be the end of her life. she has been on it for 21 months. I am 9 months into the divorce she filed against me. she was attacked by her own blood line son 21 months ago and was near death. prednisone saved her life, but destroyed our relationship. she is totally psychotic and my shrink understands it, but cannot say or write about it do to HIPA laws. she has a rare lung disease ( auto immune disorder). read the book written in 2015 by two shrinks called childhood disrupted. it fits my ex-wife exactly. I had to start my life over.
charlotte
n.s.
i hihly would say it is a drug from hell. been on prendisone for 7 months had panic and sycotic depression disorders 15 years ago.got healed after lot of stay at the mental health inpatient.and many years of help from mental health.now i am almost back there again.panic attacks mind that wont stop .confusion depression glucoma cataracts headaches so bad feels like my head is going to explode.still on 7 mg. dont know where to turn to for help
Abraham
North Carolina
I’ve taken prednisone twice: once for a sinus infection; the second time for an allergic reaction that caused a rash and blisters on my forearms. The first prescription was a tapered dose, the second was constant – both were for five days.
The first time, I became extremely irritable and treated my wife like garbage for about two days. I didn’t have any idea what had gotten into me, because I wasn’t told about the possible side effects. The second time, I made it through all right (I thought) until the day after I finished the prescription. I was on Facebook and ended up going on a profanity-laden tirade that seemed completely rational at the time. Pretty embarrassing. Since then, I’ve found out that both aggression and loss of impulse control can happen.
In the future, I’ll probably just deal with whatever the problem is rather than take this stuff.
Jamie
Texas
I was prescribed Prednisone at a low dose after receiving a diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in 2011. The first dose I took gave me extreme sweating, by day 3 had the above plus extreme anxiety, insomnia, bloody purple bruising all over the back of both my thighs, and extreme mood swings.
Day 5 I developed extreme paranoia. Day 6 all of the above plus delusions and auditory hallucinations. Ended up in the hospital 3 times because the stupid doctors didn’t have a clue how to treat it. By the time I got to the 4th hospital, my family finally found a doctor who knew what they were doing. I was treated inpatient for 10 days and went home. Prednisone literally ruined my life.
After what happened I had to have therapy because the trauma from my experience left me with ongoing depression and panic attacks. Please use this medication as a last resort because nothing else will work, medication. I will never touch any kind of steroid again. I think I’d rather die.
Tlou
Polokwane
I really don’t know what to say after reading all this comment.I have 3 days not taking prednisone and today my mouth has swelled like never before and I feel a terrible headache I took 2 of it now hoping to feel better.can someone advice on what to do as I’m frastrated and confused.
Alyssa
Virginia
At the age of 15 I was diagnosed with crohns disease. No GI doctor in my County would deal with a minor so I went to another county. That doctor would only speak to my dad who is deaf so therefore communication had to be done by me. By 16 I had been left on 80mg of prednisone for 8 months before my older brother witnessed my psychotic break. I laughed at a simple joke and didn’t stop, he soon kicked me out of his room for being annoying. I continued until he got so mad he came to scream at me and saw me sobbing hysterically for not being able to stop laughing. Laughing and crying for two separate emotions. I gained 30 pounds of fluid and rubbing my own skin felt like I had been beaten for days. The er told me I got there just in time.
Here I am 10 yrs. later with a doctor I trust more than anything needing it again because my crohns has gotten so bad I’m only on 40mg and it hasn’t been a week yet and insomnia and painful to touch has already started. If it wasn’t for my crohn’s I’d never take it again. Don’t do it unless you HAVE to. This new doctor I trust has kept me off of it for over 6 years, until now.
Jackie
New York
I was given 20mg twice a day for 5 days. I equate it to speeding (I guess). No sleep after first day on it. Did fall asleep sitting up . Felt extreme exhaustion suddenly. 3 days after stopping it and I’m jittery, achy (upper body) my bones hurt. I did get over most of the crying craziness. Felt like I was losing my mind. Little things made me cry. I feel spacey, quite not myself.
Samuel
Australia
Hey there
My son is only 4 and was put in redipred (prednisolone oral solution) for croup cough for seven days 2ml. His whole skin has gone red and inflamed after stop. He has become sun sensitive, h breaks out in uncontrollable rash. He has developed stretch marks he is only 4 and we have taken him to all sorts of specialists from Endo to paediatrics and Immunolosit. They just don’t know what to do. It’s the side effect of this drug. I ah e become suicidal as a result of what’s happening to my son. We had to pull him out of kindy as he is itchy all the time with rash. We just dunno what to do. Please help
Wanda
Oh
Started on 60mg of Prednisone nearly eight months ago… tapered down to 5mg right now for four weeks. Lost 1/3 of my hair, moon face, swollen burning eyes daily, weight gain, and swollen legs and feet. Awful stuff. Have another year to take it…. wish I could feel as good as I did a year ago… I’m 91.
Alyssa
Oh I hope you can come off soon, I almost died at 16 after being on it for 8 months. Heavier dose but still all the same symptoms! Please be careful!
Carrie
Myrtle Beach SC
I feel the same exact way. I also take Wellbutrin 150mg twice a day for depression. I work a commission based job and have to be at my best each and every day. This has messed me up horribly. I just want to lay in my bed and cry, I do not want to interact with anyone. My heart is racing, my vision isnt clear, my mind is extremely foggy. I just dont feel right. im usually good at controlling my mind and thoughts, but this is out of my control and I dont like it.
Janice
I was first put on prednisone when I was 13 to treat nephrotic syndrome. I was given 60mg for about 3 weeks and weaned off of it but relapsed and was put on it again for longer from the age of 13 -16. I was told the side effects would be weight gain and a round face. No one told me about the other potential side effects such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, stretch marks. I experienced all this while trying to go to school and do exams. Most days I couldn’t bring myself to get out of bed. Now I could probably handle this better but I was still young at the time. I was sick so much while taking Prednisone. I missed a lot of school because of depression and anxiety and still suffer with this today. It has had a lasting effect on me, and honestly, I would never go on this steroid again.
Joe
Westfield, Ma.
My experience has been very good. Aside from some sleep interruption, the drug has done what it is supposed to do. My ulcerative colitis is coming under control after a flair. It’s been a few months but I’m starting to see serious improvement. My highest dose has been 60mg a day. Getting ready to start tapering down on the mg’s per day. One other side effect has been a some irritability. Maybe I understate some! I have found there to be more bad drivers on the road of late.
Ro
SC
Don’t speak too soon. Wait until you start having withdrawals, then you can put your two cents in.
Katy
Central Illinois
I had a viral uri a year ago (Feb 22nd was dxed). I have lupus and psoriatic arthritis and take Enbrel and mtx and therefore am very severely immunosuppressed. Illnesses last a loong time.
The uri segued into an asthmatic bronchitis flare up that was so severe and extreme that over the months of March and April 2015, I had 6 IV infusions of 180mg steroids. Can’t remember name. Along with this, two Kenalog shots (steroid) and 80mg prednisone a day in divided doses.
I have been mostly on high dose oral steroids and Kenalog injections for over a year now. The oral was 80mg, 60mg or 40mg a day depending on severity of my asthmatic bronchitis flare up. I had periods of 3-6 weeks when I was off of all steroids but the asthma always came back. I have been off 10 days of 40mg plus Kenalog shot for 4 weeks now. I am desperate not to have to go back on but I probably will eventually.
I have the terrible “moon face” side effect. My face is huge, round and swollen. My eyes are nearly slits. I have the fat deposit across my neck just under chin. I have an enormous, freakish torso. It has made my stomach huge, I look 9 months pregnant. I have the “buffalo hump” on the back of my neck atop my shoulders. I have gained huge amount of weight just in the torso.
The steroids gave me severe diabetes that didn’t stop when they did. I inject Victoza once a day, then when I am on steroids, I also have to inject insulin up to 5 times a day. One day, the steroids caused my sugar to peg at 443 – ER territory, but insulin brought it down, required two large doses.
I got severe cataracts in both eyes such that I could not read or drive even in my glasses. I had surgery and lens replacement on both eyes. My bones are basically chalk now. I just started Fosamax to try to keep fractures away if it can, over time. I have tremors in my hands that no longer go away when the drugs get out of my system. Doc said they are mine to keep.
So. Not to minimize the “40mg for a week” issues, but just know if you have to haul out the big guns, you are in for a world of hurt. I would give anything for just the crazies, sleeplessness and all the rest.
Eric
Ohio
I was prescribed prednisone while in the Navy and developing a severe allergic reaction. After my third episode of anaphylaxis, the allergist put me on prednisone, benadryl, claritin, as well as a number of other antihistamines.
I was able to wean off of the medications after being medically discharged from the Navy and moving to a different area. This was all after it was too late because prednisone weakens ring muscles in the body and I developed acid reflux and IBSD due to stomach acid not staying where it should be. I also developed depression and at times odd feelings of anger and mania.
It prevented the life threatening reactions I was having but I was on it for 3 straight years (daily dose). over 15 years later, my acid reflux, IBS, and depression hasn’t gotten anything but worse. Dr’s should be required to discuss the side effects of prednisone when they prescribe it. 3 years of this medication have changed my quality of life since.
Trish
Be careful the side effects of Fosamax and similar drugs. We have a class action lawsuit going on over these.
Maria
MA
I was prescribed last Tuesday prednisone 20 mg per tablet (2 tablets daily) for 4 days last week in ER after having a severe allergic reaction. ER doctor gave me 3 prednisone while in ER and said I didn’t need to worry about tapering off. Saturday am I took last dose.
Sunday am about 2 am I woke up with hives and itching. Took benadryl. Since stopping Prednisone I have had extreme fatigue and my muscles ache. My joints ache as well. While on it I had such stomach issues (cramping and diarrhea) and energy like I’ve never known. Cleaning my house all night long. Still having stomach issues since stopping. Just got back from dr. and was told aches couldn’t be from prednisone as I wasn’t on it long enough. Likely stress. Stress??
The craziest thing is the only reason I had to take it in first place is because ENT/allergist gave me incorrect dosage of my pollen allergy injection. Supposed to get .2 cc and they gave me .3 which caused my reaction. Didn’t find this out until next day. If I wasn’t on prednisone long enough to have withdrawal symptoms then why am I feeling this way?
Linda
New York
I was prescribed 40mg of Prednisone for 5 days because of pain behind my knee and down my leg. I could barely walk. After one day on prednisone I felt like a new person. I did have a mild headache from the pill. I am still not 100% better, but at least I feel like I have my life back. I was going to ask for a renewal on the pills but after reading all the horrible side effects some people are suffering from, I think I’ll just be grateful for how I feel now.
John
Missouri
For more than 10 years I was told I had Oral Lichen Planis and nothing could be done, then a new biopsy indicated I had linear IGA disease. A drug mostly used for Leprosy was first tried and didn’t work then I was on 60 mg of Prednisone for 3 months to try and clear my mouth up. At first it seemed to be working and boosted energy, then it became apparent that limits had been reached and symptoms set in, bleeding gums, nose, and eruptions on the skin. As I started withdrawal heavy muscle and joint pain set in along with extreme fatigue and the usual blood and sugar issues. I am currently at 25 mg and can barely hobble around with a cane; my left hip, knee and ankle joints grind and pop with every shuffling step, the pain is intense and nothing seems to provide relief. The pain I had {which has returned} was easier to deal with.
Michael
Arkansas
I am SO thankful I found this site. I was beginning to think I was literally crazy, but after reading through multiple comments here, I realize I’m definitely not the only one experiencing side effects from Prednisone.
A little over a month ago, I became very ill and had to go to the ER. I was diagnosed with a severe sinus infection and as a result of the infection, had my first ever bout with vertigo (which is awful and I wouldn’t wish it upon my worst enemy).
Fast forward a month and after 2 different doctors, another ER visit, and a list of medications a half a mile long, I was finally prescribed 500mg of Erythromycin twice-a-day, 5 mg of Prednisone twice-a-day, and 25 mg of Meclizine to be taken as needed.
After a 2-3 days, I could tell I was feeling better. However, I began to realize that at certain points during the day, I would begin to feel absolutely awful. My heart would begin to race, my head would hurt, I would begin to sweat, and I would also feel shortness of breath. I literally thought I was having a heart attack or a brain aneurysm (or both). I was also having terrible mood swings and VERY depressed thoughts. Thinking I just needed to suck it up, I continued taking the meds. Finally, after exactly one week, I just couldn’t take it anymore. I called my doctor’s office and spoke to a nurse and explained to her all the symptoms I was having and that I figured it was from the Prednisone. She advised me to stop taking it immediately and to continue taking the Erythromycin. Today is Wednesday and I took my last Prednisone tablet on Monday. I’m still feeling the side-effects. Yesterday wasn’t to bad, but today when I woke up I felt like I was having a panic attack and now as I sit here this afternoon and type at my desk, I still feel shortness of breath, my heart racing, and moments where I think I might pass out.
I am SO ready for my system to rid itself of this drug!!! Had I known all of the possible side effects of Prednisone, I never would have taken it. I am SO glad I found this site. I was beginning to wonder if I was literally losing my mind psychologically. This drug can have MAJOR effects on you so please consult your doctor or pharmacist THOROUGHLY before deciding to take it.
Ellen Gregory
About 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with oral lichen planus (an auto-immune disease that turns your body against itself). The doctor prescribed 40 mg of prednisone a day, which I took for some amount of time. Shortly after that I developed diabetes and have been taking metformin ever since. The doctor never told me of any side effects that the prednisone would cause, but even if he had I think I would have taken the chance anyway of taking it because the inside of my mouth had deteriorated to the point that I sounded as though I had a horrible speech impediment when I tried to speak. And eating was getting to the point that my gums were so painful that I considered going on a soft diet only. So, long story short, prednisone saved me from the torture that I was going through with my gums and palate, but unfortunately caused the diabetes.
Patricia
U.K.
I am a female in my 70s and normally in good health, I have always looked after myself and have a good happy life. Until I was prescribed steroids prednisone 9months ago starting on 60mg. I have experienced most of the dreadful side effects and couldn’t wait to come off them, after tapering very slowly I took my final tablet in February 2016 and expected things to get better, but I was mistaken.
It has now been 8 weeks since my last tablet and I am feeling awful. I am exhausted all the time some days not even able to get up, I have dreadful pain in my joints, insomnia, skin problems my insides seem to shake and I can’t deal with the smallest situation, yesterday my hairdresser told me my hair is thinning, these things are difficult to cope with and I feel down a lot of the time which is so unlike my normal optimistic and positive self, but the hardest thing is what it’s doing to my head, I am disorientated and I feel as though I have somebody else’s head on my shoulders, it’s got so bad I am scared to drive.
I don’t know how long these side effects last can anyone else identify with me.
I would also like to comment on what I call neglect from the medical profession, the only advice I got from my consultant is they may make me a bit hyper, I wasn’t monitored throughout the 9 months until near the end when I complained, when after reading one of these sites and realising that I should have been getting blood tests etc.
Every time I have told him of my problems he has replied it was nothing to do with the steroids.
Dawn
Arizona
Well, I finally made it! Off of Prednisone, that is! I took my last dose of 1mg on Feb. 28, 2016 after being on it for 13 months for GCA.
The taper took many, many months as I went very slowly and the withdrawal symptoms were worse than being on the meds. Believe me, I had almost all the side effects mentioned while on the drug, but withdrawing from it was terrible! Headaches, joint aches, insomnia, irritability, low blood pressure, chills, weakness, and a horrendously red, itchy rash which moved around my body week by week. This necessitated a trip to the dermatologist who told me that I had developed Photosensitivity from the Prednisone. I never go out in the sun so how did that happen? I believe that the nerves under my skin had just become hypersensitive once I tapered the Prednisone down.
Anyway, the dermatologist said she was going to give me a 60mg injection of Prednisone……hahaha! ” NO WAY, doc, I said!! I just came off that stuff, absolutely not.” She prescribed some cream that has steroids in it and I hardly used any. The rash moved from one part of my body to the next, but as it left each area the itching and redness just vanished. It took about a month to finally stop.
I must say that the dermatologist came up with the diagnosis of Photosensitivity because at the time, only the parts of my body exposed to the sun were affected. That quickly changed to parts unseen by the sun, that is why I disagree with her diagnosis. That said, she did mention that Prednisone can do strange things to a person.
So, after a month free of Prednisone I am feeling so much better and sleeping again normally. My joints are still aching a bit, but getting better. The weight gained, (25lbs), is still with me……it doesn’t disappear like magic, folks. I will have to work hard on that. My blood sugar was still up somewhat a month ago, but hopefully, it has come down by now.
I am glad I had Prednisone to help my condition as there is no other drug available for it, but I would never again stay on it for such a long time and I would insist on tapering sooner and faster, if possible. It’s been a rough year and I hope that I will be 100% back to normal soon and not have any lasting effects from the drug.
Jane
NJ
I was diagnosed with GCA, a year and a half ago. I was on prednisone all that time. I’ve been off prednisone for 3 months, and I have weak, achy, muscles! . It gets even worse when I exercise. My shoulders, hips, thighs, feet and hands ache all the time, even in the middle of the night. It’s exhausting.
Not sure what to do, doctors have very little suggestions.
I became diabetic, so taking metformin and had high cholesterol so was taking statin. I went off statin 2 months ago, because statin is known to affect muscles. But still have the weak, achy muscles.
Guy
Alberta
I was first treated with 5 X IvIg. Then refused the Prednisone the neuro wanted me to take . However 5/6 weeks later I went into a full Myasthenia Gravis crisis…meaning being intubated and on a respirator. Perhaps thanks to the high dose of Prednisone{40mg?}. I came off the respirator 10 days later. Since I didn’t have the added stress of needing to go to work, the fluoxetene(Prozac) was evaluated as too strong. For about a year I was on high dose of Prednisone up to 65mg. I was started at 40mg in september of 2013. Tried the Prozac for about 2/3 months, waited a month the switched to SAM-e 400mg on an empty stomach in the morning. I eventually added light therapy daily preferably in the morning. The combo has been effective in giving me stable and positive moods with basically no side effect. However I have been on 5/15mg alternate days since spring 2015 and recently since March 2016 I query if the insomnia is linked to the days I take my Prednisone 15mg in the morning. Give me a few more weeks then I’ll know for sure.
Mollycat
Oxfordshire England
i have been on Prednisolone since the beginning of December and it is now the end of March and it really is the medicine of the devil, I still have to stay on it until the end of May that’s if I don’t come off of it on my own accord, I have lots of the side effects from this terrible medicine the worst one is the swelling of my face and body, I feel dreadful, looking in the mirror I see someone i just don’t recognise it’s awful. The reason for my taking this dreadful stuff is Mold in my lung, I have read on another forum that if the cause of the mold is removed the condition will go of it’s own accord. I wish I had been told about all of these side effect because I really would never have put myself through this.
John
Thailand
I’ve just been prescribed Prednisolone for a sudden hearing loss in one ear.
My doctor here in Thailand has prescribed quantities of 10 x 5 mg tablets taken after breakfast followed by 9 x 5 mg tablets after lunch. A daily total of 19 x 5 mg tablets.
After reading some of the above comments I have real doubts about continuing with the treatment. I’m only on day one and am now looking at stopping the medication.
Anyone out there with positive feed back??
JimA
AZ
I’ve been on prednisone for almost three months. I started at 15mg for a month, 2.5mg for a month, now at 10gm. I think I might be having withdrawal symptoms of fuzzy headed thinking and some confusion. Feeling a little depressed at times and can’t sleep some nights now. Does this sound like symptoms of the prednisol? It worked great for what I needed it for. Polymyalgia Rheumatica. Fixed me right up in a few hours and I was feeling very good. Although I had a mild headache for the first month. It seems to have passed. I getting a crawling skin feeling on my head sometimes. But I can live with that. It’s the confusion occasionally when doing things that worries me. Physically I feel pretty good. Not so sure about my mind.
Stacey
Virginia
I had developed a bilateral lung infection/bacterial pneumonia, and within two days was so bad I could barely breathe at all. I was wheezing and coughing all night. I felt like I was drowning. I saw my doctor who immediately said she didn’t want to mess with waiting for a culture and put me on high dose antibiotics and a Zpack /step-down pack of Prednisone. I’d known a little about possible side effects from having been prescribed it years ago for a severe burn to my lower leg. So, I thought I was prepared. I wasn’t.
6 pills the first day, 5 the next, 4 the day after and so on until they were gone. For one week I felt amazing. I could breathe without feeling like I was going to drown, and I had more energy. That was great. I felt like it saved my life, but the real side effects didn’t start until after I’d stopped taking the drug.
That’s when the confusion, muscle weakness, blurred vision and worst of all,delicate tissue tears, began. I’ve been off the drug for nearly two weeks now, and the confusion and blurred vision have subsided some but the muscle weakness and tissue tears are still a constant problem. The tissue tears are the worst really. They’re delicate tissues so it’s a constant horrible reminder. Basic everyday functions cause severe pain, burning, and even bleeding. I wasn’t prepared for this and it’s effected my intimate relations with my life partner. I can’t be touched (even to wipe myself) without bleeding. It constantly itches and burns. I’m a mess. I want to cry all the time. I just feel so lost.
I know it did save my life but the after-effects are so horrible and life altering that if there was an alternative I really wish my doctor had thought of it first.
I wish I knew how long this will continue so I could see light at the end of this tunnel. This is so horrible!
Sher
Los Angeles
I have rheumatoid arthritis and had to miss my Remicade infusion by 2 weeks due to pneumonia . When I received it I was given 60 mg pred and. 30 mg taper script. I was in an awful RA flare.
Now, I’ve done the pred thing before. Nothing much as far as side effects except being more assertive. But this time…. Anxiety, depersonalization, shaking. You name it. And it’s been only 3 days. I’m stopping it now. Xanax doesn’t even help.
Konni
NC
I was put on Prednisone to treat an inflamed lung due to aggressive radiation treatments for breast cancer. I was told about the sleep and weight gain problems and was on the drug for a month, starting with 3 pills a day, two the next week, 1 1/2 the following week and then 1/2 pill for a week. The breathing didn’t improve and I was put back on one 20 mg. pill a day. I get angry easily, have trouble getting a full night’s sleep, have fluid retention problems and have decided to ease off the Prednisone and let my lung heal itself. I’m 84 and I trust my body to take care of itself. The power of positive thinking is part of my life philosophy and I need to get back in balance. The chemo and radiation treatments stopped in February and I just need to get all those chemicals out of my system. I was on chemo for a year. I need a life back.
Lorena
Canada
You likely have a yeast infection which is a side effect of prednisone but very curable. The treatment is availble over the counter at phatmacies in Canada. Not sute in other countries. Please see your doctor. No need to suffer.
Juanita
9722 bud street Hudson Florida 34669
I’ve been on prednisone for about 25 years,that is after having a baby. they discovered I arthritis RA and they gave me it. They stop taking the insurance I was on they gave me a new one they gave me it to and so on I live. I was trying to hurry up and get some were took a step and I heard aloud crack in my hip plus felt xxx trem pain couldnt put my weight on that hip felt broke went to the hospital ,they seen me took xrays then told me I have to stay ,saying I needed hip surgery next day he said that he wouldn’tanother doctor came and she told me that she wanted a second opinion because she thought that he was wrong. My hip was very bad and deteriorating. The other doctor would not even see me because I was on Prednisone until I could get off of it no doctor would ever touch me that’s all I’m going to say for now I am in the dark please help
Doug
UK
I started having vasovagal(Fainting fits) attacks with severe nausea, which I’m sure was caused by tapering off the preds too quickly..
chris
Taunton, MA
I developed an itchy skin rash. Cause still unknown today. Was prescribed Prednisone usp 5mg to be taken as 3 pills 3 x a day for 3 days, then 2 pills ,3 x a day for 3 days, then 1 pill 3 x a day for three days, along with topical cream (Triamcinolone acetonide usp0.5%). I took 1st dose w tube of cream; 8 hrs later took 2nd dose; 8 hrs later applied 2nd tube of cream over body [cream was twice daily]. Within 15 minutes of covering my body with cream my mouth had a strange dry taste, and I had severe dizziness. Then it lifted a little, and I drove home. Was unsure if something major was happening to me. Could hardly walk, stand or think. I called the E.R. They said it happens but come over if it gets any worse. lol I couldn’t drive!
I fell asleep, and this severe reaction lasted 10 hrs. Then I slept on and off for three days. After 3 days I felt a little better, and I went to church A.other attack started that morning. Every word echoed through my head along with seeing lights. I would try to close my eyes to stop the dizziness but only made it worse. I could not think ,talk, or walk. I was extremely scared once again. I went home and slept another 2 days.
I am a healthy 51 yr-old male with no health problems. I will never in my life ever touch this medicine again. I believe every one of the experiences written on this site. It has been a full 7 day now since this episode started, and I’m now starting to feel ok.
The feelings I got from these drugs were indescribable. I just wanted to die. I’ve never until then ever thought about suicide or had such crazy thoughts. I could not look people in the eye when I spoke w them. When I turned my head it felt as if my brain stayed in the same place. I am praying that nothing about this stays with me. I have never felt so strange in my whole life. Hopefully it is gone. (But I only took 2 doses and 2 tubes of cream), and I’m convinced that this drug was the problem.
Penelope
Toronto
I’ve had an eleven-year intimate acquaintance with prednisone, through my daughter who got chronic ITP ( an auto-immune disease where platelets are destroyed as soon as produced and you die of brain haemmorage). Prednisone saved her life. she weighed 63 lbs and was put on 60 mg a day. They removed her spleen after a year and that solved the problem. Then she got lupus. When it attacked her kidneys prednisone and immuran saved her life. You have to taper the dose because prednisone switches off the ability of the body to make its own cortisone.
I’m now facing a nerve disease which may leave me quadriplegic. I’m 63. Prednisone is still the drug of choice. I will be taking 70 mg a day for months. Knowing as I do what it does to the body I haven’t decided whether to consent to it or not. All the treatments for my disease are poison, designed to weaken the immune system … they are like a continuous chemotherapy (my disease is also auto-immune). But believe me, 20 or 30 mg tapered fairly quickly is nothing! It is simply something you do not have to worry about.
My daughter is 35 and fairly well, although there is no cure for lupus. She was able to stop predisone 4 years ago.
Liz
Dallas, OR
I was put on 5 mg of Prednisone for a rash that appeared only where sunlight got to my skin. I had a drop-off dosage, 4 tablets the first two days (in the morning), three the next two days, two, then one. My sleep went out the window, I didn’t feel exhausted, I just couldn’t get to, or stay, asleep. Then after the third day the crying started, and the rage, even the littlest and most expected event set me off. This was scary because I work with middle school students who have handicaps! By the time I finished the course I was MORE than ready to be off it, I was scatter-brained, forgetting words in the middle of speaking, and stuttering. I felt like I was falling apart! The day after I finished the last dose I felt like I had a really bad flu. The second day after I was sick to my stomach, had headaches, and felt like my back had been punched. If the diagnosis turns out that I have to take this the rest of my life, FORGET IT! I will take second best rather than go through this again!
chris
i had the same exact problems, was horrible
Giuliana
Utah
Have you been tested for Lupus?
Chloe
I’m 49 years old and was put on a high dose of Prednisolone 60 for suspected giant cell arteritis. This was in early Dec. I had a biopsy and blood test, and all came back negative. So I’ve been tapering down on the Prednisolone. I have now reached 8mg! I’ve been in and out of A/E so many times with the same symptoms you have. The tinnitus is constantly ringing in my right ear and never stops! It drives me mad. I’ve also got severe dry eyes, and the eye drops don’t really help. I’m scared to drop lower because am now having breathing problems but I’m desperate to get off this drug. It’s even affected my eyesight. My doctor is reducing me by 1mg per week. If I make it to the end I pray all the nasty side effects will pass. Hope you feel better soon. All the very best to everyone struggling with this drug. The very best of luck
david
Sacramento, CA
I was diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease a few years back but it was fairly minor. Recently I got a bad cold and the ringing in my ear got worse and I lost about 90% of my hearing in one ear. I went to an ENT and saw their physician’s assistant (PA) who had 25 years of experience. He suggested a multiple approach to treatment which included a 2-week treatment of Prednisone. 20 mg X3 for 3 days, 20 mg 2x for 3 days, 20 mg 1 X for three days, half a tab for 4 days.
On the first day I started experiencing an unusual headache. I felt like it was deep in the center of my brain. I assumed it was related to the Prednisone but fortunately it was tolerable so I continued with the treatment. That evening I experienced an odd itching on my face and head that almost felt like I had small bugs on me. I noticed my face looked kind of red in the morning. That lasted through the whole night but has not returned.
I have high blood pressure which is controlled with meds and a number of other ailments and meds I take. Unfortunately, the PA didn’t tell me that there would be the potential of any side effects but he did say that it was important to finish the prescription and taper off as prescribed.
By the third night I noticed I was having odd internal body pain including across my chest and lower back. I got up and started doing my research on Prednisone. From what I can see… none of the effects I was experiencing were unusual. Since I had already made it to the point of decreasing doses I have decided to grin and bear it and finish up the doses.
It seems that half way through I have recovered some of the hearing in my ear, but the ringing still persists. At this point I can’t really say if the side effects of the Prednisone were worse than the loss of hearing. Only time will tell that.
Victoria
07081
I have Meniere’s Disease which causes violent vertigo and hearing loss during episodes of dizziness. My doctor, who was impossible to get a hold of, prescribed prednisone when I lost my hearing during an attack. I can’t remember the dosage, but I was on it for a week. The first couple of days I had the worst headaches I’ve ever had in my life. I thought I was going to have a stroke or brain aneurysm. I called my doctor to let him know how terrible I felt, but the nurse said he wasn’t available to return my call for whatever reason. I tapered the dosage after reading about it online since he never gave me any instructions. I felt like a drug addict when coming down. I was itchy, delusional, anxious and felt hot. This was a year ago and I have since changed doctors. The new doctor just prescribed me prednisone for the same reason, but I hope it’s not as bad as last time.
Joan.
Kingston, Ontario.
I was diagnosed April 2015, with the lower giant cell disease, I only have 21 percent of blood flow in both legs, they cannot put stents in because I am too blocked, so prednisone saved my life, I could have lost my legs in two weeks. I know people don’t like being on it, but I think differently, when I ween down, I feel very ill, I am now on 20mg., and would like to go back up to 35mg. a day, it helped me with so many of my other ailments, and since I have weened down, my quality of life has been terrible.
Anyway, good luck to everyone out there, I would love to talk to someone else with the lower giant cell, because apparently I am the only one in Canada that has it. Thank you for this opportunity to talk about this.
Pat
Arkansas
I have GCA and have been on high dose prednisone for two months. I have painful round four inch spots in lines up the front and back of my left lower leg that hurt. No doctor knows what it is. My feet are like elephant feet and blood is breaking through in spots from my thigh to my feet all on the left side. I am tapering from 60 down now to thirty mg but legs seem no better. Are these any symptoms you are familiar with?
I also have something I have read only once about a strange side effect. Since the first week I took it, on a 17 day cruise, I have rocked on the ship and that has been over two months. I hold on to things to walk. I feel like I’m on a bouncing cloud. I’m praying it quits when I get this slow withdrawal over, but I have read of people who have bounced for 25 years and there is no cure.
BC
Ohio
I went to the doctor yesterday for a cough and some fatigue. I was diagnosed with sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis and walking pneumonia. He prescribed an aggressive treatment of prednisone combined with antibiotics. I am on 60mg of prednisone for 4 days, then it starts tapering off from there. I am experiencing hot flashes, I’m jittery and sometimes it feels like my heart is beating faster. However, with all of that I also feel extremely calm. Like the weight of the world isn’t on my shoulders. I normally suffer from depression (I’m on wellbutrin for this) and anxiety…I always feel like the world is on my shoulders. My doctor never explained the side effects of this medicine. I’m reading about it causing depression and suicidal thoughts…I already have issues in that area. It would really have been nice to know. So far the only real negative side effect I’m experiencing is the hot flashes. I’m sweating in February in the North….
Robin
Fullerton
I was prescribed Prednisone for PMR, even though my pain was not that bad and controlled with acupuncture and Advil occasionally. However, my doctor scared me telling me that I could get Giant Cell Arteritis and lose my eyesight.
I finally gave in the started on 20 mg, tapering down to 1mg. The doctor never followed up with me in one week, which I read he should have since I was a new patient on Prednisone. He scheduled a return visit for 3 months. I have to add that I have one of the best doctors available in the area and he works out of the top Catholic Hospital in the County. However, he never told me anything about the drug.
After about 3 weeks I called and told him I was so hyperactive and not able to sleep at night more than 1 or 2 hours at a time. I looked up symptoms on the Internet and found that many others experienced the same thing and they had to take Ambien to sleep. I called my doctor, and he had the nurse call me back and tell he (verbatim), “The Prednisone has nothing to do with your symptoms. ” I ask you, how could he possibly in good conscience say this?
Anyway, he prescribed Ambien and it works fine. However when I returned for my 3 month visit the pain had come back and he asked me why I stopped the Prednisone. ” I ran out of pills” I told him ” and I tapered off like you said.” He said I should have stayed on 1 mg for a long time. Anyway he started me again and I developed a serious rash with itching over the entire body and had to go to the emergency room and they couldn’t give me Prednisone so I had an Epenephrin shot and was told to stop the Prednisone immediately.
I suffered terrible, terrible vascular headaches from withdrawal and thought I was going to have a stroke. I had to keep taking Benedril for about 3 weeks until the allergy got out of my system. Then I had to start back on Prednisone at a very small dose 2.5 mg at the same time as taking Benedril and it worked. Finally tapered off one and increased the other. Finally 15 mg and then now on 10 mg for 3 weeks and so forth. Doctors need to give patients literature when prescribing this drug and a doctor friend of my neighbor said that, “Prednisone is the most archaic way to treat a patient.” If we can fly to the moon why can’t they develop a better drug with less devastating side effects.
Linda
U.K.
This drug is evil. I have suffered from joint pain, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, mood swings, depression and if I’d known all this I would have taken my chances with the illness rather than become dependent on this terrible drug. I have been on them now for 9 months and have come down from 60mg to 15mg and can’t wait to taper and if I ever get off completely I swear I will never allow my GP to prescribe them again. I would rather die as take this horrible horrible drug ever again
sweetie
This is a good forum- thanks for providing it. I have an auto-immune disorder and been on and off prednisone many times. The longer I take it even at low doses, the worse the side effects are. that is not true for everyone, but now 10mg gives me side effects that 40mg did in the beginning. Lately on 10-20mg I have had muscle weakness, feel shakey and trembling. Hoping to taper because I’ve started on another drug. My advice for tapering is take it slow- symptoms of tapering too fast for me are feeling like I have the flu, body aches, muscles aches, painful joints, tired as in sleepy, fatigued. If I feel fluish while tapering I take a bit of prednisone and slow the taper down. What works is to alternate days- for example: 5mg, then 4mg, then 5mg for a week. Then stay on the lower dose for a week until you are comfortable on that dose. Then alternate the next lower dose.
I gained 30lbs on prednisone (was not skinny to begin with) and was able to lose most of it when I came off, but I had to work at it. Quitting sugar was very helpful though not easy. Now I’m back on pred- ugh and struggling with the weight, blood pressure and overeating again. Also feeling a bit manic obsessive. Nice to not have joint pain when I’m on it but will pay later- good luck to all!
Jimmy C.
Texas
Wow wow wow – reading these comments – I was diagnosed with a super-rare autoimmune disease and had been on Baclafen and Diazepam with only mild relief to symptoms. The next “big gun” was Prednisone at 60mg X 30 days then 40mg X 30 days, then 20 mg X 30 days but the moon face and weight gain, the shortness of breath, sweating easily and dry mouth, holy cow!!
I couldn’t stay with it and dropped the 20 to 10mg by biting the pill in half, and I came online looking to see what would happen if I just stopped at the 10mg – am I glad I didn’t!! I now need to call my neurologist and get them to Rx me smaller dose pills so I can ween off this without having to guesstimate with breaking 20mg pills into pieces.
I am falling asleep at my desk, and during the day when driving I blinked and, holy crap, almost drove right into oncoming traffic! I feel super drowsy and then try to sleep and can only sleep for a few minutes. Then I’m wide awake looking for coffee or something.
One thing I can say is this, I can drink a binger and feel GREAT the next morning, cocktail, then wine with dinner, then after party with tequila and beer…pht-t-t-t pour me another shot! Wake up early without so much as a head ache.
This drug is a trip. I want off it bad.
Talwinder
I was diagnosed with an eye infection, and doctors termed it serpiginous choroiditis. On the first day the doctor prescribed a high dose of Prednisone. The dose was 100mg, and they directly injected it into my body.
This high dose has increased my blood pressure, and I have opted to change my doctor. I consulted another senior eye specialist in the city. He, too, has done the same but the dose he suggested was 40mg per day and kept on reducing it for the coming 30 days.
With the passage of time indigestion, hypertension and high pulse rate became common with me. My blood pressure rose to 150/80. This was not normal at all.
I started doing regular exercise, yoga and a healthy diet plan with a lot of water throughout the day. This has given me some relief, and my heart beat is normal now though the blood pressure still hovers between 120/70 to 140/80.
This drug has changed my life, and I don’t feel very comfortable in eating a variety of foods I love to eat before. Anyhow, I would suggest that you include exercise and healthy diet in your life to curb the side effects of Prednisone. If anyone has more suggestions, please post.
Talwinder
chandigarh
I have an eye infection and doctors named it serpigen chrodites though I may have not spelled it correctly. There were dark spots on my eye retina and doctors injected a dose of 100mg Prednisone on first day.
This dose has increased my blood pressure. On seeing this worst side effect I have consulted another reputed doctor in city. He too did the same and prescribed the dose of 40mg Prednisone per day for consecutive 7 days and kept on reducing it for one month.
This drug has worsened my life. My digestion process is not very smooth now and these effects severed with time. Though I am not a heavy person but I started feeling hypertension with this long stayed indigestion.
My blood pressure went high to 150/80. though the best way I am able to curve it down is doing regular exercise, yoga, drinking a lot of water and taking a balanced diet.
I have followed the above routine for 2 months now, and now the BP hovers between 120/70 to 140/80. Please suggest if anyone having better thoughts on curbing the side effects.
Dale
Michigan
I had a reaction to the rx when treated for bronchitis..ended up with 140 bp ..afterward was diagnosed with a fib..I am upset due to the cost of Eliquis and anxiety.
Ciko
Asia
I was having a very painful and sore throat and arthritis on my left ankle. NSAID didn’t do much so I took 8mg Methyl Prednisolone twice a day for 2 days. All pain was gone, I felt great, but then I was becoming very anxious. I felt like I had drink 10 cups of coffee, was unable to sleep, and then followed by full blown panic attack 2 days after I stopped taking it. Had to go to ER and given Xanax, which is also a powerful drug. I could only take just one pill, because it gave me terrible headache.
It was my fault, I should stick to NSAID. I would never take Preds again.
GwenCarter
Bristol
Hello im on 1mg of prednisolone coming from 15ml since the last three months I cannot begin to express how awful I have felt and now since tapering’ how worse I’m feeling, firstly, headaches, arm pains, severe chest pains, frightening palpitations, stomach pains, and worse weakness in my spine that I can’t go out as not sure if I’ll get back home, as the excruciating pains in spine and makes me unable to walk , to the point I just fall. I feel so weird inside like I’m going crazy and I weep all the time.
Oh sorry forgot to mention, I’m 65 and was put on steroids for suspected poly myalgia which since the steroids didn’t help, I’m now told I haven’t got but got fibromyalgia and now put on amytriptiline which I’m so scared of taking due to side effects. As for the Gp I see that’s no help whatsoever.
Stephanie
RI
I have been on Prednisone several times for asthma and once for Bell’s Palsy. Thankfully, I have never had any bad psychological effects or physical effects. People are different, what works for one might not for another. It is good that you posted this though, because people will know what to look out for..which they should for any drug or treatment.
Cecile
Duluth, MN
Last May I developed debilitating joint pain and stiffness in shoulders and hips. Diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), an autoimmune condition which has no cure and symptoms can only be addressed with prednisone. I was reluctant to take it but desperate. My pain was significantly lessened hours after my first 15mg dose. Seven months later I am down to 6mg, my pain is controlled and I have not had severe side effects from prednisone. I guess I am one of the fortunate ones.
Kathryn
Pa
My mother was just diagnosed with PMR yesterday she took her first prednisone 20mg pill yesterday and most of her pain is now gone…keeping my fingers crossed for her long-term and to you too.
Patty
Plano TX
I too have PMR. I’m an old RN so should have googled my symptoms & diagnosed myself after just a few days instead end of trying to get a diagnosis from my THEN doctor.
It went on for nearly a month & Still no diagnosis & finally got a diagnosis of sinus infection which was in fact not sinus but giant cell arteritis. Had antibiotics which strangely helped a little bit. All came back as soon as the antibiotics ran out.
Went to a new doc 6 weeks later & she ran several tests, sed rate was normal & so was c reactive protein. Another 2 weeks went by & 3 friends told me what I had, I googled it & went back to the doc & told her what I have. She didn’t think so but sent me to a Rheumatologist who probably saved my eye sight if not my life.
So the prednisone is a blessing. I tell that to my husband & friends b/c I’m “manic” most of the time. Insomnia is eased somewhat w/trasodone.
I’m down to 40 now, from 60.
Patty
Joyce
Georgia
I was admitted into the hospital for pulmonary distress. I was put on prednisone by IV. About 3rd day, I started feeling very anxious and panicky. I was on oxygen, also. I became very, very talkative. Racing thoughts, no sleep, irritable (very).
Bobbie Helton
Tenn.
I was given 40 mg predisone to be taken 20mg 2x day before temporal biopsy which came back negative thank God I had been on 5mg before this for severe ra with no problems. Since taking the higher dose I am jittery-moody-hateful-my bp is elevated and heart rate goes up and down I wake up 3 to 4 am so anxious I feel like punching walls. I am afraid to start tapering off on my own Today is Saturday and can’t see Dr. Until Monday If biopsy was neg. Should’nt I be able to come back down to 5 mg.r
Jan
As far as I am concerned, the last year has been the worst of my life due to the Steroid side effects. But you cannot just stop taking it.wish I had been warned about the dreadful side effects and I would never have taken it. Thought some days I was going crazy.I can put up with the joint pain as long as I can sleep and that my head is clear. I am now told that the side effects may not go away after I have stopped taling it!! something to look forewards to I am sure.
Dawn
Arizona
Update from January 18, 2016. I have been getting a lot of withdrawal symptoms since I tapered to 3 mg of Prednisone. Headaches, itchy skin, sleeplessness yet again, red bumps on only 1 forearm (weird!). Today I am down to 2 mg for two weeks and then 1 mg for two weeks, then I am done. I am determined to tough it out, no matter what the withdrawal is like because I want off of this drug. My doctor doesn’t always agree with me that these symptoms are from the withdrawal, but then she doesn’t have the time to research online like I do. There are many, many people complaining about the same symptoms when they taper down and even after they are completely off Prednisone.
Jan
Hello I am the same. First on 30 mgs per day . When I First tapered to 25 mgs hospitalised with inner shakes, rapid heart beat, could not breathe properly runny nose, vision impairment.Body aches you name it, every test ok pred taper caused it. In mean time since then, not sleeping. Hot then co ld and feeling as if going mad mentally.Now down to 4.5 mgs two weeks ago and the body aches are cruel. All other symptoms are not so bad now on lesser dose except for pain in joints . Never know which bit is going to hurt next.!!! Supposed to decrease 0.5 mg per month but reluctant as I know it is going to hurt. Some more!!! But determined to tough it out.
Sheena
Philippines
My Mom was diagnosed with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma that started in her ovaries November last year, her oncologist immediately put her in RCHOP chemotherapy, that includes her to take 50mg of Prednisone twice a day for 5 days after her chemo cycles.
She was hospitalized for straight 2 months and her onco started her on corticosteroids 2 weeks before her 1st cycle, her behavioral changes and other side effects were off the charts, the doctors said the culprit may be her PCA because of fentanyl… after 1st cycle her condition improved there is a large decrease in her tummy size, ascites were gone, CTT was removed and NGT for decompression was pulled out too. All in all my mom’s response to chemo is very good, the side effects worsen after her 2nd cycle when we were discharged. She had tremors and even had cognitive lapses at some point. These symptoms subside after her nadir phase. Her onco is still speculating that the cognitive lapses tremors and behavioral changes were due to her fentanyl patch and rescue doses of oxycodone. I was a bit skeptical with prednisone already and aired to her, she said it’s highly unlikely coz she’s only taking it for 5 days… she speculating for a possible CNS metastases, which made me worry 1 million times than before. 1 week after her 2nd Nadir phase tremors were gone she’s back to being our mom again, my mom is a retired College professor, her intellectual capabilities is above normal, and seeing her having cognitive lapses breaks my heart and alarms me.
She got out of her fentanyl patches and rescue doses of oxycodone before her 3rd cycle. She just had her 3rd cycle this Wednesday… her tremors are back, no cognitive lapses yet, she’s sleepless, BG is through the roof, nauseous has diarrhea and very emotional. I reported this to her oncologist and she said hand tremors are not normal and that prednisone is not to blame… I searched the net for side effects of prednisone and i was brought here… I’m positive that my mom’s symptoms are from her prednisone… i hope her symptoms goes away sooner… and I hope that the real culprit of my mom’s symptoms is her prednisone… I hate words like metastases, relapse and PML…
Everyone please pray for my mom…
Ruby Tash
United States
I will be praying for your mom. God bless.
Darren
Michigan
Had “tennis elbow”, was prescribed 20mg twice a day. Doctor never mentioned side effects. Got prescription and then saw side effects, 1st dose, got lightheaded, lasted a couple days and was fine after. Was not told to come back for tapered dose. Now that I have stopped, I have on my torso, little red bumps, front and back, muscle soreness, dull headache, joint pain, and get this one” feeling like I have a fever, but normal temp.”, can’t sleep. All for a sore elbow!!
K
DL
Ok
Angie
Concord, NC
Reading through all of these comments has made me realize I am not crazy. So, thank you all. Today is my first day off Prednisone following a 12 day taper (three days of 5 pills, three of 4. etc). I was prescribed this for a pinched nerve in my neck that radiated halfway down my spine with accompanying muscle spasms. The pain I was having at times was comparable to the natural childbirth I had.
Over the course of this horrible medication, the most worrying things I’ve had, and honestly thought it was nerve damage I’ve developed, is the severe tingling and numbness down both arms, considerable weakness in my left arm, to the point that I could not manipulate a razor to shave under my right arm. It’s like my bran had disconnected the motor impulses. I’ve got this feeling radiating down both legs into the bottoms of my feet. I’ve been baffled how this could happen from my cervical spine. Now, I wonder how much is attributed to this drug.
My other symptoms have been the hot red face and neck, feels like I’m placing my head into an oven. Racing, pounding heart. Mania, insomnia….I may sleep for an hour, then I’m bug-eyed awake. Night sweats… oh sweet lord, the night sweats…and now day sweats. At times I feel like I’m on fire. Today I woke up thinking I must have fallen down the stairs in my sleep, my muscle pain and even my skin itself, is so pronounced. I feel like I am running around on skates, shorty of breath, shaky, blurred vision, headache. Bloating, belching, horrible indigestion, and even the air tastes funny. Horrible dry mouth and nasal membranes (which funnily enough my sinuses opened up this morning).
I’m sitting here typing and feeling like I have needles in my arms and hands. I HATE this. And all that I’m reading makes sense….the number of people with my same complaints are astounding. My heart goes out to all who have to take this drug long term. I’ve taken it before with minimal problems (sleeplessness, increased appetite, irritability, bloating), but never more than the 5 day taper. This time, it got me. I feel like someone else is living in my skin.
Cliff
Michigan
I posted earlier under Wendy’s post as hers hit me right off the bat instead of waiting and making mine a separate list.
In the grand scheme of things I think every one of our posts is just one continuation of the very first. We all seem to have the same effects from this drug, some may be more advanced, or include additional reactions, and that could quite possibly be to amounts we are taking or because of the symptoms were trying to mask induce each of us into additional side effects. Who knows.
In my case I was on a drug that apparently is the most widely used for blood pressure because of its minimal side effects. Lucky me I fell into the not just rare case of allergy reaction, but into what I have found is the extreme rare case of reaction. So now am on a drug to keep me alive temporarily that also has severe side effects and it appears I’m getting most of the worse ones from it.
The medical community does their best I’m sure to take care of us and we must have faith in them, however in the future (if I have one) I will be more cognitive by asking more about the symptoms of any drug that may be prescribed to me before popping that little pill into my mouth.
Good luck to all and remember to keep smiling. :)
Dawn
Arizona
I have been on Prednisone for over one year for Giant Cell Arteritis. Started on 40mg and currently on 3mg, tapering down by 1mg every two weeks. It’s been a rough ride, and I can’t wait to get off! So many side effects, from emotional meltdowns to severe edema and tinnitus in one ear. Prednisone suppresses the immune system also, so 3 months in I got shingles, too… not fun! Recently, although I am tapering down and on a low dose, my lower legs swelled so much I thought they would explode. Was sent to cardiologist, but no problems found there. Was sent to a vascular surgeon, and okay there.
This is all a big mystery to the doctors, but I believe it’s the Prednisone. I am currently taking furosemide and potassium, and my legs are feeling so much better now. I did have a lot of sleep problems when on higher doses. Thank goodness that has stopped on the lower dose. I still have the moon face and weight gain, (about 25 lbs); I am guessing that won’t change until I am completely free of the Prednisone. That day can’t come quickly enough, God willing, and if I have no relapses I should be off by the end of Feb. 2016! Yay!
Allison
CA
I have been on 3 rounds of methylprednisone in the past 2-2.5 months. I was prescribed the first 2 due to severe eczema that had turned into staph. The doctor wanted to keep it under control so I wouldn’t have to use more antibiotics. These doses started with 20mg on Day 1 and tapered down for a week.
Most recently. in January, I developed bronchitis (I’m asthmatic). The doctor prescribed a new dose: 40 mg a day for 5 days and then taper down over the next week. Having been on steroids recently, I knew what the side effects were. I did not realize how much worse they could get. Day 1-5:I would fall asleep for an hour and then be up the rest of the night. My body felt like there was a current of electricity running through it. I was anxious, irritable and DEEPLY depressed (I’ve never been depressed in my life). I felt like I needed to get out of my skin, and there was NO relief. I ended up in the ER twice. The first time, it was due to the anxiety and ‘craziness’. They took me off of the steroid IMMEDIATELY. The second time (2 days later) I was having EXTREMELY STRONG ideas of suicide. I only told the doctor about the intense anxiety as I couldn’t cope with being kept in the hospital for 3 days. It seemed like a HUGE hurdle (What do I do about the animals? What do I do about work? Who has a key? What if they don’t follow through?).
As of now, I have been off the steroids for 3 days. This is the first semblance of calm I have felt. The most disconcerting thing for me is the fact that I have been on this medication in the past, and it wasn’t too bad. The idea that the same chemical can have such adverse side effects is frightening. Yet, I’m glad it happened because at least I have the knowledge now.
Shirley
Tennessee
Am going to visit my brother in Kentucky, he has a bad back from a fall on an oil rig years ago. Doctors put him on prednisone off and on since , and sometimes with hydros and neurotin, very bad combinations, to him his pain in his back worsened and he did take too much prednisone, they’ve recently weened him off but not soon enough, he’s not slept in past 6-8 weeks, going from a mild sweetheart of a person to a violent unpredictable yelling screaming phychotic raving cursing individual, they admitted him to psyche ward, put him on Hydol and ambien to help him sleep, his poor wife is not well either,he’s lashing out at everyone and they say is prednisone, we are praying he somehow returns to normal.
Jerri
CA
Hello. Your post made me think of my dog that has Addison’s disease and needs prednisone to function. She was put on a high dose at first and became very violent with our family. She would snap and growl and actually break the skin with a bite attack. But immediately afterwards seems like she didn’t know why she was doing it. After beginning tapering her to the lowest possible dose, she has been much less aggressive. I bet it is having the same affect on your poor brother. I hope he gets better.
Ciko
Asia
I had the same experience too. The anxiety, the suicidal thoughts were “killing” me.
Tracy
Hi Allison, I’m 49 years old and was put on a high dose of prednisolone 60 for suspected g.c.a…..this was early Dec had a biopsy and blood test all came bk negative. I’ve been tapering down I have now reached 8mg! I’ve been in and out of A/E so many times with the same symptoms you have. The tinnitus is constantly ringing in my right ear never stops! It drives me mad I’ve also got severe dry eyes and the eye drops don’t really help. I’m scared to drop lower because now having breathing problems but I’m desperate to get off this drug. . It’s even effected my eyesight. My Dr is reducing me by 1mg per week. If I make it to the end I pray all the nasty side effects will pass. Hope you feel better soon all the very best to everyone struggling with this drug. The very best of luck.
Virginia M.
Georgia
I’ve been prescribed prednisone at different times, usually in a dose pack that tapered off. However, after being diagnosed with autoimmune liver problems, the only course of treatment began with 60mg of prednisone each morning, daily, until otherwise told. Very quickly, I began to have problems with anger, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, and it was so bad that I dropped down to 40mg instead. The doctor wasn’t happy about that, but I’m also my father’s caregiver, and I was unable to deal productively with his needs on 60mg. As it turned out, 40mg was doing what needed to be done! Praise God!
Even so, the side effects continue, and I’ve been on 40mg for 6 weeks plus knowing that I will have to stay on it indefinitely. I have days where I’m unable to cook or clean house, even laundry is hard to do unless I have help. Some days are much more productive, allowing me to drive and make meals, but I’m sure it will be a while before I’m able to be back to normal.
Doctors gave me a second drug to use, expecting it to help, but it caused more problems than the prednisone! Until that is out of my system, I hesitate to say any other side effects, except for my face swelling and blood sugar being higher. I’m sure that the prednisone plays a role in both of those problems. I’ll post more, after I get this Mercaptopurine out of my system.
Sandi
Omaha NE
I am currently on methylprednisolone infusion therapy for Graves related Thyroid Eye Disease. It’s 1x week at 500mg for 6 weeks. I am having massive mood swings and have to take Tylenol PM to sleep at night. The indigestion is bad.
The side effects aren’t too bad other than my poor kiddos with my moodiness. I take an antacid in the evening to defeat the indigestion. My eye disease was diagnosed as moderately active and my left eye does protrude, with tissue inflammation in my eyes, double vision and eye pain.
I guess I’m stuck due to the eye issues, but I am still concerned about long term effects. My question is the wear on my liver. I do not drink alcohol. Also with the IV 1 time a week then after 6 weeks nothing — is this going to be ugly at that point???? Any feedback would be so helpful!!! Thank you!!
Mary
Upstate New York
Am having acute exacerbation of COPD, so doc rd’d predict, which I began taking last night before bedtime. In bed, closed eyes, relaxed and began having unusual images appear in my mind. Fell asleep but awoke suddenly with intense feeling of fear for which there was no logical reason and my heart was beating very fast. Took a long while to calm down. Was able to sleep without truly resting for a few hours but then awoke and could not get back to sleep. Exhausted but feel wired. Prednisone package insert does not mention any psychological effects. Criminal!
cat
My dad was taking prednisone for his colitis and after so many years of taking it he took a gun and killed himself he said he couldn’t stand the way that drug made him feel.
Robyn
Albuquerque, NM
I’m so glad I’m not the only one. I am taking 5 days’ worth and I feel just awful. I’m cranky, exhausted and somewhat depressed. I feel so out of it and irritable and confused. It’s Christmas day and I don’t know how to deal with all the people today! I thought I was losing my mind. I don’t wish this on anyone (and it sounds like I don’t have it as bad as many people!), but I’m glad I’m not just nuts. Best to you all.
tiffany
rome ny
I haven’t felt my self. Took this meds for a week and have been off it about five days and I’ve haven’t felt myself since. I have soo many things going in with my body that makes no sense. I was already in the hospital after having horrible palpitations soo bad that my blood pressure was 152-126. Thought I was going to die. They can’t tell me if its caused from the meds or not. Now I have to see a heart doc. I feel alone and don’t have no-one to talk to to see if my symptoms relate to anyone else’s. Never again will I take this med.
Jan
Stamford
I am the same. Was on 30 mgs beginning. Tapered to 25 mgs after 5 days, rapid heat beat, breathless, ached all over, head ache, inner shakes, runny nose, hot, cold taken to hospital. Prednisolone withdrawal! That was last year. Today I am down to 5 mgs a day. Still get all the side effects when I taper for. 2 weeks. Plus joints ache but not so severe most of the time. Mood swings. Sleeplessness. Wired.now tapering 1/2 mg PER MONTH. Hate the thought of coming months. Feel like another person I do not know!,,,hate feeling like this.
kathleen
Pittsburgh
I was on 60mgs 10mg pills each took 6 pills for 5 days then after that started to taper down to 50mgs a day.. soon as I went down 10mgs that wen I started to have numbness tingling in my left hand and in my mouth… also I was bloated like a balloon first three doses I took
Mina
Ottawa
It is true this drug is terrible. I am experiencing so many side effects mentioned and listed here. I am not me right now.
Diane
California
Mina: I, too am taperingn down from a very high dose of pred for vasculitis. My hands and lower arms are numb, feel like in ice and the nerve pain is horrible. And, hair loss!!
GWT
Nanaimo B C
I was prescribed Prednisolone and Tobradex for inflammation in my right eye. I could not feel any pain nor discomfort in that eye. Neither could I sense any loss or impairment of vision before the application of these medicines. I had shingles. After ten days on the Tobradex my right eye developed foggy vision. The Prenisolone was continued with the claim that the eye would clear up. After many months of following this instruction the fog went away but the vision remains blurry. Plus during the time I took the Prednisolone eye drops I experience headaches; and short term memory impairment, quite serious. Because these side effects were never discussed or reviewed to me before the treatment, I feel betrayed.
Jennifer
Radcliff ky
I’ve been on Prednisone for over a year. I have pulmonary sacradois. The beginning of taking this drug was hell. I was on 60mg daily for 5 months. No one told me of the insomnia and night sweats. Day sweats too. I feel at times like I’m a walking inferno. Mood changes I don’t know if I’m coming or going at times. I have the moon shape face. Belly distension. I’m down now to 10mg a day. I just want off it. I miss me the way I was before this. I have trouble thinking. Sometimes I don’t recognize my own face.
Margo
Sydney Australia.....
Well l have been on and off Prednisone for years not once have I ever had a problem with any of these things l have read on here in fact it makes me feel like a new person, I had Polymyalgia l was on it for 10 years, I suffered no side effects at all. I am now on it for Bronchiechielasis and I have asthma also, and it does not seem to help me at all with this complaint, I had breathed in lots of cement while our building was being renovated and I am still suffering with breathing problems and coughing…..
Su
Tulsa
I have non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and must take 100 mg of prednisone for five days with each chemotherapy treatment it is horrible! In fact after the first two cycles I had to on my own change the dosage and do a taper of 80,80,60,60 etc. until I got the full 500 mg.
The crash isn’t as bad as it was doing 100 each day for five days and then stopping abruptly, but it’s still pretty bad. I especially hate the feelings of hopelessness that were oppressive. And yes thoughts of suicide were there as well.
What’s interesting is that the doctors tell you that everyone is different when it comes to this treatment\ (they measure out the chemo drugs according to your weight) however everyone gets the same dosage of prednisone with the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma treatment whether you weigh 300 pounds or 100 pounds which doesn’t seem right to me. Believe it or not the prednisone has been the worst part of the whole chemotherapy experience!
Donna G.
cordova
I was in the hospital for pneumonia and received large doses of steroids through IV. Left the hospital with tapering down doses of prednisone. Have noticed severe jitteriness and mania, but most troubling are the drenching night sweats with soaked pajamas, pillow, and bedding. Am doing therapy with prednizone as prescribed. Also, have less pain and lots more energy! How serious are the night sweats?
Samantha
Indy
Prednisone… the devil in a bottle.
I will try to keep this recap short… I was in and out of the doctor’s office and urgent care with what was a sinus infection that cause problems with the liquid and imbalanced my middle ear. I was prescribed an antibiotic along with prednisone. I was told to take 2 20mg daily for 5 days, and then 1 20 mg daily for another 5 days.
On the medication, at least during the first 5 days, I experienced no problems. However, when I started taking 1 pill a day, things got a little odd. I experienced a shakiness which seems to be common, so I thought little of it. The second day I took the 1 pill dose the shakiness continued along with anxiety. At this point the anxiety wasn’t awful (I attributed it to being in college and being stressed from the amount of exams, homework, etc.).
I decided to stop taking it all together and that is where I ran into loads of trouble. The day I stopped taking it I had what I describe as “inner shakes,” panic attacks, trouble sleeping, chills, nausea, “foggy brain,” and a few others. It was pure he**. I went to the ER that same day after experiencing a racing heart rate, multiple panic attacks, numbness in my limbs, and stomach pain.
After visiting the ER and them taking a CT scan, they attributed ALL of my symptoms to extreme constipation (What a coincidence right?). So, the next morning did what the doctors asked to relieve constipation and the sorts. Still had numbness, panic attacks, constantly crying, inability to concentrate, slowness of thinking processes, and others. I scheduled a doctors appointment for the next day. He had told me it was all caused from hyperventilation and to practice my breathing, so I did. After two days, symptoms still persisted, so I scheduled an appointment with a different doctor and they suggested a thyroid test (tests came back normal) and therapy along with some Xanax.
As it has been a week of me being off this awful medication, I am still not feeling myself. I describe it as “foggy brain,” (hard to concentrate, thought process is off, things of the sort) along with a slight decrease in shakiness, and anxiety that switches on and off. Being close to finals and the amount of stress I am already under, trying to describe to multiple people and doctors that I AM NOT GOING CRAZY is extremely frustrating. I have an appointment with neurology (I am sure nothing will be wrong, but will go anyway).
Basically, what I am trying to say is none of this was coincidence. ALL of these symptoms started THE DAY I STOPPED TAKING THE PREDNISONE, however no one else sees it this way. If ANYONE out there has experienced this or symptoms like it, I would love love LOVE a response or some reassurance. I would also kill to know how long these symptoms lasted, because the last few weeks have been some of the worst in my life and I would like to feel back to normal and like I am not completely losing it. This site helps a lot but would still love to hear how long these awful symptoms will last. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!!!!!
Michael
Samantha, I commented just a few minutes ago so I won’t recap here what I just wrote, but I can tell you that YOU ARE NOT CRAZY.
Your story sounds almost verbatim just like mine. I have been off Prednisone for 2 days now and it is REEKING HAVOC on my body. Sweating. Heart racing. Anxiety. Crazy, psychotic thoughts.
This drug is definitely the devil in a bottle.
Wendy
IL
I have been on prednisone for about a year and a half. This isnt my first time on it. I have been on and off it for the last 17 years to treat my crohns. I have always gotten the moon face and always felt hungry (that is both a blessing and a curse with Crohns) I would get spasms in my neck and back and my skin would hurt to the touch. Almost like I was bruised everywhere. I wouldn’t say I ever got the extra kick of energy that some people talk about but I did get the sleeplessness. Well this last time, the past year and a half, I have had every symptom imaginable. Including some long term effects that I cant reverse, weak and breaking teeth and osteopenia. At this current moment I am dealing with the following side effects all at once:
moon face, hunger, muscle spasms, skin hurts to the touch, restlessness, Fluid retention, Insomnia, Irritability, nervousness, mood swings, depression, Disorientation, confusion, Dizziness, vertigo, Muscle weakness, rash, weaken immune system, Increased susceptibility to infection, shaking, cold sweats, always hot, increased heart rate, and nausea. I think I may have named all of them. For as much as the drug helps the flare I don’t know how much longer I can deal with the horrible side effects.
Anna
I was on prednisone for almost 3 years. I was 15, weighed 90.3 lbs, taking 60 mg daily with other pills that were meant to reduce the side effects (and much more expensive than prednisone itself). Felt like I died twice. I can’t imagine why the doctor thought it’s ok to prescribe it when the situation was far from life threatening.
Cliff
Michigan
Wendy
Same here as to symptoms plus more.
11/13/15 away from home at my cabin I awoke because of my company laughing in the living room after I had gone to bed. (Thank goodness I had company that night or I wouldn’t be typing this reply).
Was a normal evening and I had no health issues. Went to bed at 1130 and awoke at 1am on the 14th with my tounge three times it size. We got me to ER within 40 minutes as hospital was close to my hunting camp. They almost performed a tracheotomy but at last moment got the smallest tube available down my throat as I had gone into complete anaphylaxis closure. After spending 4 nights in CCU and many tests I was sent home. While in the hospital one of the drugs used was predisone intervenously in very high amounts.
Was sent home to see an allergist and my PCP and was told to stay on 20mg each day 10mg per morning and night. After seeing allergist it was determined I had an allergic reaction to the ‘ace inhibitors’ within my blood pressure medicine. I was put on 40 mg prendisone 1/2 twice per day, 25mg benadryl 4 times per day, 25mg pepcid AC twice per day and I purchased 4 epi-pens. Was beginning to swell up and lose sleep around week three.
On 12/12/15 my first day of reduction to 10mg I ended up in the ER with like and throat swollen.
Fast forward. 12/15/15, ER discharged and then 12/17/15 back in CCU for 4 nights. Now on 200mg in hospital in liquid form. Discharged on 12/23/15 and am at 80mg 1/2 morning and night.
1/12/16 allergist and PCP took me off benadryl. All blood work came back from Mayo eliminated crohns, lupid, lymphoma and inherited angeodema. They still believe I fall into a very rare case of angeodema as results of the ace inhibitors and only time will tell if I’m over it but won’t know until I’m off the prendisone.
1/19/16. Finally down to 35mg in morning and 30mg at night. Will run 30 at night for three more nights and then on sixth day will reduce morning dosage to 30mg for 5 nights and then reduce night dosage to 25, etc until all is fine on March 21.
The side effects…………
Night sweats, can’t sleep more than 1 hour 45 minutes, some 20-30 minute naps during day, moon face, Buffalo back, apple belly and rest of body they have not named is completely swollen. Pain at all swell points, irritatibiliy, blurred vision (could be from lack of sleep but is listed as a side effect), can’t stop eating, dizziness, spaciness, hair loss I think. Bottom line is this drug is seriously messing me up.
Wife and son keep saying yes, but your alive……….
I’ve read a lot about the drug and the angeodema. Appears these symptoms will last the same amount of time off the drugs that we had while on them. So for example if moon face for three months while on drug, then will still have it for three months after drug was stopped.
My doctors refuse to give me anything to help me sleep as if I have an angeodema attack while sleeping how will I know and I may die in bed. So I guess I will continue this regime and let nature take its course. Once off the drug hopefully my body can start making the antihistamines again that the ace inhibitors blocked and I will go back to a normal life again. If not then I’m back into some type of treatment and recovery again. I’m only 55 and have a lot more things to do on my bucket list and this way of life was surely not one of them.
Nasty drug, but I’m alive.
BTW any typos or missed words please excuse as I’m using my phone and not a computer.
pookie
I was prescribed prednisone for inflammation in my eyes due to sarcoidosis 20mg, I have had every symptom possible from this drug. Sleepless nights increased axiety, depression ,irritability you name it. I tapered off and wow ive been having heart palpitations, insomnia ,I gain a bunch if weigh but the oddes thing is I seem to have something pressing agaisnt my diaphragm which makes it hard to breath at times has anyone experienced this I’ve had exrays and nothings was there my doc says its from stress. Oh did i mention Ive taken prednisone twice before with no complications!
Loralee
Northern CA
Thank you, Joe, for this site. I had been prescribed a short, tapered dose of Pred. for a possible pinched nerve in my neck, with the symptoms being a mere sore shoulder and arm. When the dr. mentioned giving me Pred., I my radar went up because I’d heard it was a nasty drug. I went ahead and got the prescription, because it was cheap enough that I wouldn’t feel like I’d wasted my $$ if I didn’t take it after all. I was about to take my first pill this AM, but decided to do more research before taking it, and found your site. I am NOT going to even think about taking it right now!
So, again, thank you for proving the info, especially the forum for others to tell what they’ve gone through!
Moe
Tinley park,il
I had a bad experience with prednisone. & then 2years later took it again. But I stopped it too soon. I was still fine the whole time. But a week later decided to finish the prednisone. Now I feel worse like the time I took it 2 years ago. I tried my multivitamin make it extremely bad. Now I have even more physical side effects. Does anyone have any good remedies to counteract the side effects?
Classless Noodle
I was diagnosed with ulcerative pancolitis just over two years ago, and after four months of shot gunning medications to see what stuck, my doctor prescribed prednisone. For a month or so I was on a standard 20mg dose, and feeling all the usual side effects. But it didn’t really help, so the dosage was upped to 40mg for nearly 7 months before I switched doctors. After weaning off of prednisone over the course of three months, I was put on budesanide or something and eventually got into remission in spring of 2015 and off of steroids by that June, but not after having to withdraw from my first year of college due to immunosuppressive and perpetual illness. Now that I have started college over as a freshman at 19 years, I still see after effects of prednisone that really effects the way I do work, creating inconsistencies in: focus, thoroughness, memory, anxiety, irritability and more. As if there was a shadow of the person prednisone twisted me into.
Did prednisone save me from a lot of terrible side effects? Definitely. Was relief from those side effects worth the damage that may have been done on my brain by side effects? Only time can tell. Regardless, it’s my burden to carry now, so I may as well try to keep going.
Rebecca
Oklahoma
I was prescribed Prednisone 20mg twice daily for 5 days (no taper) for muscle tension. On the 5th day, I took the pill in the morning and started becoming very jittery, had heart palpitations, and very blurry vision. Decided not to take my last pill. The next morning (yesterday, actually), I woke up with heart palpitations again, blurry vision, confusion, shortness of breath, and tightness in my chest. I went to the ER, at the same hospital where I was prescribed the Prednisone. After 4 hours, and EKG, head CT, Chest XRay, and numerous blood draws, I was diagnosed with “anxiety”. It is now 4:52am, and I have been up for 2 hours with severe muscle soreness (it hurts all over to the touch) and a splitting headache. I’m hoping this will go away over the next couple of days. I consistently asked in the ER if it could be Prednisone withdrawal, and they were adamant that it was not possible. I will NEVER take this medication again, even if my life depended on it. It is definitely not worth it!
Brenda
Dorset
Yes this is a drug with very mixed blessings. My partner has been on and off oral steroids 20 years with very horrible side effects and most definitely should be give out with better warnings than at present. G.Ps are far to dismissive of thes problems.
Due the changes in my partners mood, he has become very bad tempered and aggressive and seems to be in semi permanent state of rage, this has brought our relationship the point of collapse because he’s now so irrational and in denial that we can’t communicate. My advice is don’t leave it to long to report bad side effects to a medical person.
Jandee
South Carolina
I am so glad that I found this site awhile back. When I was on prednisone I thought I was loosing my mind. Hot sweats, red face, no sleep, irritable, shakes, didn’t want to go anywhere or see anyone. I was either crying being mean! I was taking 50mg for about 3 week the 40 for a week the 30,then 20. When I got to 20 mg I broke out in BIG hives all over my body. It was awful. Dr. put me back up to 40 for 2 weeks and they went away but he then had to start lowering me back down again. 30 for a week,20 for a week, 10 for a week 5 for a week then 2.5. When he took me off all together I thought Woohoo I am done…not so..for the next 4-5 weeks I had the shakes, dry heaves, slept all the time, still had hot a cold flashes, and could not eat. I had gained at least 20 lbs. while I was on it but with the after affects I lost it all but looked like the walking dead and was glad I live alone so no one had to put up with my crying spells then my anger. Now after being off of it for 5 weeks I am finally feeling more of myself thank God. My Dr. never told me about the effects of this drug so I started to do some research and found this site and It saved my life because I realized I was not alone in this battle of the “Devil Drug”. I told my Dr. that unless I was on my death bed I don’t want to every be on this again! A shout out to all of you who have written in telling of your experience because it made a whole lot of difference in my life and helped me get through this. Thanks to you all and good luck
Donna G.
Thank God for this website. Others going through the same thing help assure me I am not alone with theses reactions to prednisone. My fears are quieted as long as I do exactly what my Dr. says. DG
Mary
Philippines
I’ve only used this medicine for 10 days due to severe asthma attack. The emotional side effect that I experienced was so bad. Sleeplessness on first night, then I was just too lazy to do anything. I thought it was just my asthma. I have been thinking lots of things. I was anxious, depressed, and my limbs also hurt. I am suspicious of everyone. I think I’m going crazy. My eyes looks sleepy the whole time. I am sleepy but I couldn’t sleep. I was just staring on blank walls.
I continue to live my normal life, but I have suicidal thoughts. It became worse after a week. I couldn’t feel anything, physically or emotionally. I am numb. I don’t have emotion, I just want to die. My doctor did not warn me of the side effects. I researched and found this site, and it helped me to understand what is happening to me. It made me feel better knowing I am not going crazy at all, and that I am not the only one experiencing this things.
Allison
Thank you for your post. You just completely spelled out my past 2-3 weeks. It helps to know I’m not alone. The suicidal thoughts for no reason are the worst.
Mary Ellen
Upstate NY
I have a lung disease called BOOP. It’s mainly chronic pneumonia and bronchitis. I started out with dry coughs and losing my voice.
My family members made me see a doctor as they were tired of me coughing or clearing my throat while talking to them on the phone. I had a lung biopsy to rule out cancer. Which they did. I had xrays which showed popcorn like things on both lungs. They put me on 60mg of predisone and then tapered off til I was totally off it, which took about a year.
I had just about every side effect you can imagine during this time. Then I was ok til the following year around September again when I had problems breathing. I would have bad days that I couldn’t breathe and would need to use my breathing machine.
I again had xrays and again they saw signs of the popcorn stuff in my lungs. When this happens they told me that if I don’t go on steroids, the lungs start developing this stuff on them and it could take over where I wont be able to catch my breath and would just die from not being able to breath.
The steroids help keep this mass off my lungs. I do get the side effects and I have to learn to live with it. The doctor has told me that if I get xrays and it shows this stuff on the lungs I take the steroids or death will occur eventually due to the mass taking over my lungs and I wouldn’t be able to take a breath in or out. So steroids it is because I am not ready to die and not being able to breath sounds scary.
The side effects are endured with the help of my husband and family. As I am typing this its midnight. I am starting the not so fun night sweats. I change my clothes a couple times a night. I retain so much fluid that I think my head is going to bust and my elbows hurt so bad. My elbows, feet and hands are so swollen they hurt. When I go to bed I move so much that I don’t fall asleep til 3 and some times even 5 or6 in the mornings and want to sleep til noon. I am that tired. When I am in bed and cant sleep, I think. Like how tomorrow I will eat better so I can lose the weight I have gained from eating like a pig. But then the next day I am hungry and my eating better goes out the window with drinking less pepsi and drinking more water.
I take a diaretic so I can get the fluid off me so it doesn’t hurt. But I have to stay home close to a bathroom so having a life outside of the house is out of the question. Looking in the mirror at my beautiful fat reddened face depresses me. I also have this totally round belly that I cant do much about. It just gets bigger and more rounded.
I get to buy new clothes but have to buy one or two sizes bigger just isn’t much fun. My heart loves my husband and family, but my mind just wants them to go away until I get down to five mgs of steroids at least. I get headaches. I love to read books and go online but my eyes feel too much pressure so I go on for a bit then get off for bit. And that goes with watching tv too. It’s hard to watch for a long period of time. A show or two at once is enough. Well this is my life in a nutshell. I am alive with the steroids whatever that entails. Take them and do the side effect time or don’t take them, have a breathing episode and die. I guess I take and just get by. Gods speed to you all.
Loralee
Northern CA
I just read your story, Mary Ellen, and I really feel for you! I just wanted you to know that I will be praying for you, that you would either be healed, so you don’t have to go through this at all, or that at least it wouldn’t be so bad for you, that the popcorn stuff wouldn’t grow, and that the side effects would greatly lesson…. You’re not alone! Somebody cares besides your family! (And thank God for them, right? =) )
pookie
Alameda ,Ca
Im so sorry your going through this praying for you
Donna G.
I have the exactly same side effects as you! was in hospital with pneumonia and bronchitis. While in hospital, was on high doses of decadron IV. Sent home on tapering down prednisone dosage and I take it exactly as prescribed! I have a swollen face, neck, belly, and thighs due to fluid retention. Prednisone makes me more active and increased eating; but the fluid is why I have the weight gain.
Steroids make me hyper and I talk and talk too loud. The most troubling side effect is the night sweats that SOAK my pajamas, pillow, and bed clothes, my hair. I don’t know till I wake up freezing wet the next morning. Prednisone helps the breathing problem, but also have jitteriness, spells of irritability, some mania. like you, I don’t know what size pants to wear; but it’s the fluid and not actual weight gain! Tapering prednisone down 10mg every 5 days. I had no idea steroids could do this to me. I will still follow dr’s orders and dosing. Just good to know I am not alone with having theses symptoms.
Donna G.
I am on prednisone, tapering down doses as prescribed my dr. I feel better, have energy, though some jitteriness. But the prednisone makes me gain fluid in face, belly, and thighs. Most troubling are the night sweats where I wake up soaking wet every a.m., and bed clothes are wet. I also have some mania because sometimes I feel so good I think I can do anything, although I am disabled with multiple health issues. I have the best doctors and follow their prescription exactly. I just didn’t know that the night sweats were part of it.
Berkley
Medford, OR
On yeah it causes cataracts. I’m 27 and have to have surgery in both my eyes. Until then I’m legally blind
Berkley
Medford, OR
Ah prednisone horror stories. I have to take prednisone everyday. I have had to for five years straight since my bone marrow transplant. I have to take a dozen other drugs to counteract the side effects of both short term intensive doses and long term use effects.
It’s a miracle drug when you absolutely need it. I would be either dead or slowly dying from the very painful effects of graft vs. host’s disease.
This article shows short term effects of high dose steroids. It can also cause edema in your extremities. It can cause you to have both bleeding and clotting issues.
Joint pain is common due to swelling as well as osteoporosis. Fungal infections are common and can occur pretty much anywhere on or in your body. It can cause infertility.
As with any drug prolonged use can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. It helps the body fight off certain things but makes it weak for fighting off other problems. So as long as I’m on prednisone I stay alive,I just have to take a high level of pain meds, muscle relaxers, antifungal for oral thrush and to protect other areas, inhaled steroids for breathing issues, amphetamines to improve focus and keep me awake, sedatives to sleep.
I have also had to have lots of tests and surgeries to deal with some of the issues. Last year I was hospitalized when blood clots formed in my legs and caused my lungs to fill up with multiple embolisms. So I now have to take blood thinners.
Prednisone also thins the skin making it easy to tear or rip. I’m covered in stretchmarks from swelling. It can cause spasms in the intestines and an overactive bladder. It causes severe heartburn and nausea. There are a lot more side effects out there too.
Loralee
Northern CA
I’m sorry you’re having to go through all of that, Berkley… =( I will keep you in my prayers…
Loralee
Janice
Tennessee
I have known for several years how my body reacts to Prednisone. The most irritating one is sleeplessness, and by this I mean excessive sleeplessness. I cannot sleep, day or night. I see every hour on the clock all night long for as many days as I am on the medication. I could get up and clean but I would disturb everyone in the household. Therefore, I just stay in bed and toss and turn.
I had never associated my anxiousness or mood swings with the drug. I am glad I read those others posted. I have been pretty calm and even tempered lately. I am on Prednisone 25mg., 2 for 2 days. Then tapering one each day for 2 days. I also experience weight gain and bloating.
These were enough side effects for me to tremendously dislike taking the drug. I have congestion in my lungs. That is why I was prescribed Prednisone. My doctor knows that I detest this drug but he continues to prescribe it.
I have a bottle from my last upper respiratory difficulties that I never took because I felt like I was recovering on my on and did not need it. I was and did recover in a day or two after that doctor visit. This time, I awoke to a growling in my lungs that I felt as well as heard. My dog heard it as well and promptly jumped from the bed and ran outside through her doggy door and started barking. I got up fairly early and waited for the office staff to start receiving calls for the day at my doctor’s office. I saw him at or shortly after 10:15 a.m. He first told me he was going to prescribe a Z Pack. I can sleep while taking that.
However, he came back into the exam room and said he had sent Prednisone and Azithromycin to my pharmacy. I was too afraid of what was going on inside my lungs not to take the drugs as prescribed. I went to bed last night at or around 11:00 p.m. I was able to sleep until sometime around 3:00 a.m. I lay there and tossed and turned until 4:30 a.m. I got up and took my meds and have been here on my computer.
I guess I did not start to experience the sleeplessness until 3:00 a.m.
If past history proves true, I will be awake all night. I am now very jittery feeling, maybe from 2 cups of coffee or maybe from the drug. I usually drink 2 cups in the morning with no ill effects. I do not ingest caffeine later in the day though because it can keep me awake at night also.
After reading the side effects other people have experienced I will be paying close attention to my emotions. I am a fairly rational person but I have experienced panic attacks, had suicidal thoughts, anxiety, anger, frustration in dealing with people, etc. I was in psychotherapy back in my 30’s for extreme depression. So I really do know something about those symptoms. I just never associated them with having taken Prednisone. So I am on alert now. I hope I never have to take Prednisone again and my heart goes out to anyone who does. Wishing you all no more side effects and speedy recoveries.
Sara
Chicago
As the author states, high dose steroids is no joke and can wreak havoc on your body for weeks during and after treatment. I am a severe asthmatic and have to rely on steroids to keep my airways open. I have taken inhaled steroids, been administered IV steroids (those are the worst in my opinion!) and oral. I have experienced everything from aggressive behavior and uncontrollable shaking to hot flashes and severe body aches as described above. Oh and insomnia, which is why I’m on this site in the early hours of the morning.
It is essential that you discuss with your doctor how necessary steroids are to your treatment and if there is a way to avoid sudden withdrawal. I take an oral steroid, when I have to, that starts with a full steroid dose and slowly tapers off. I no longer experience severe body aches (which got so bad I cried when anything touched me) and my volatile mood swings, while still present, are less severe and manageable.
You must be your own advocate and don’t be afraid to question your doctor. Obviously in a life threatening situation this is not possible, but when the initial crisis has passed don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself! The best advice I can offer to others is ASK QUESTIONS. Ask about side effects, how to minimize them, what the medication is for and if there is another, less severe, option. Doctors are very busy, but it is their duty to make sure you understand the care you are receiving. They are not gods, and they don’t want to cause you discomfort so help them by telling them what side effects you’ve experienced in the past. Trust me, they are usually more than happy to discuss other treatment options. And if that doesn’t work, there is no reason you can’t get a second opinion or a new doctor. Now if anyone knows how to curb the crazy appetite that accompanies steroids that would be helpful :)
Eva
Missouri
Avoid sugar, fats, carbs, high sodium and side effects won’t be as severe. I developed “drug induced immune hemolytic aneomia” from an over the counter supplement, and required 6 units of blood and a long, slowly- tapering prescription of prednisone, to save my life. So prednisone (stopping the immune response of my body attacking my red blood cells) was NOT optional. Started at 60 mg for a week, then 40,20, down to 10 for 2 weeks, then will be 5, on down. Besides some insomnia, restlessness, lack of appetite, and feeling somewhat volatile/irrational at times, my side effects have been mild, and no weight gain so far. However, one of my doctors said the worst physical effects are diet related. Eat very little sugar, carbs, sodium. Increase potassium, calcium, protein. It’s worth it.
Loreen
Tacoma, WA
A few years ago I was having allergies. My nose was all stuffed up, and I was coughing. The doctor said I had asthma and put me on prednisone. I got so sick. My back hurt so horribly I was having my granddaughter beat my back to loosen congestion. I couldn’t breathe. I went to the ER. They gave me a breathing treatment and sent me home with orders to follow-up with my primary care provider. Every Time I went back to the doctor I was a little sicker.
I ended up back in the ER. They gave me another breathing treatment. They were going to send me back home when blood result showed potassium levels dangerously low. I was admitted to cardiac care to make sure no damage. Had a huge IV bag of potassium. Still prednisone kept coming. Blood pressure was so high the machine couldn’t read it. My blood sugar was so high I developed neuropathy in my hands. Got control over that, and they sent me home to follow with primary care doctor again. We talked about what had been happening. He said to stop the prednisone now and not to taper. Do it now.
It took a couple weeks to withdraw, meaning that I slept pretty much all day. But eventually everything straightened out. No more pills. Needed nasal surgery not prednisone. Doing great now. Will always refuse to take prednisone.
Seth
Michigan
My fiance was prescribed prednisone for a severe allergic reaction to hair dye. Not only were the doctor’s instructions far less than clear (confusing in fact) but there was NO warning about possible side-effects. For an individual who already suffers from several emotional issues, it would have been very helpful to know that. Due to the misleading dosage information, she took three doses at once the first day. Needless to say this caused quite the reaction.
Bottle reads:
Take three pills daily for 3 days
Take two pills daily for 3 days
Take one pill daily for 4 days
Take with food
Perhaps this would make sense to others, but we took it to mean that she was to take three pills (at once) daily for three days, two pills (at once) daily, etc. In fact she was supposed to take three pills three times a day for three days, two pills two times a day for three days, and one pill for four days. Shortly after taking that first dose she became itchy and broke out with a mild rash, swelling began in her face, she became extremely irritable, aggressive, argumentative, and (by her own admission) irrational. She thought she was losing her mind. She lashed out at family and friends who knew nothing of the medication or side-effects. To them, it seemed as if she was “losing it”. Thankfully everyone was patient and listened to us when we tried to explain the reaction with our limited knowledge. You would think the reaction would diminish after she finished the prescription, however the effects continued for almost two months after. Doctors need to be held accountable for these things! Especially when suicide is so likely with individuals with preexisting emotional issues.
Marla
WV
Oh my Seth, I just did almost the same thing, my bottle says take 5 day one, 4, next day 3 next, exc. so I threw all 5 down at once. I figured it would say 5 TIMES a day, if I was wrong at all at once. Guess I better be calling the Doctor when they open in a few hours. I’m really scared because I can’t take a lot of medications, can’t believe doctor would give me this, took three different pills just to find a blood pressure pill I could take.
Allison
My doctor’s directions were the same. The difference? She said that it is my option to take it all at once. Thinking that if I took it in the morning, I would be able to sleep at night, I took all 4 at once. I have taken it before with no effects so it was very disconcerting this time. It took some time to sort out that it was the drug. The fact that I was so imbalanced did not help.
Lindsay
Well I started having bad side effects to steroids about a year ago when I had gotten sick with a sinus infection, my face turned completely blood red like a lobster and felt like I had just crisped in a tanning bed for hours, doctor said that happens a lot that it will go away!
So I’ve been sick twice since then having to have steroids, mind you they know what they do to me but say it’s one of the more normal symptoms, well this time I have pneumonia!
After reading everything I have on prednisone side effects this past week I’m honestly freaked out! I have had every worse side effect possible due to this medicine and just read that if I had this and that which was almost every single one listed I should have stopped the medicine already and called my doctor, but I’ve already been making myself take this crap for a week! Started with a shot in the hip and then three days later I had to start taking prednisone 20mg two pills a day for five days! I just finished today!
I still of course have had the red lobster face every single day and the heat that I absolutely cannot stand consuming my face, but this time I’ve had so many terrible side effects along with that, that every single night I’ve stayed scared to death and unable to even sleep because I’m scared to go to sleep.
After reading the side effects that I should have stopped due to immediately has me scared to death, have I harmed myself or put my health in danger? I have three beautiful young babies to care for and be here for, I honestly don’t know what I would do if this would consume me any longer!
I don’t know about you all, I’ve read a few of your posts and we all sound similar in ways, but here is what has happened to me since taking it, and not to mention like I said it says I should have stopped this medicine immediately when this happened and called my doctor! So at night I start getting really anxious and have shortness of breath, I have this dry hacking cough where I feel like I can’t get anything up or relief, I feel swimmy headed as if I’m half way out of it, my heart races, I’ve had headaches, and the anxiety is immense!! I’ve had numbness in my arms and legs, and of course the burning and tingling in my face, and I’ve also noticed my taste to things has been compromised!
So all of this because of this stupid steroid! I’m honestly now scared to death cause I’m also reading that you can have even steroid withdrawal when they are stopped! If it gets any worse then this I may lose my mind, this has me scared to death honestly! I find it so hard to breathe right at this time of the night, this is when it always gets really bad for me! I’m scared to lay down because of how I feel, what if I don’t wake up or something, and now I’m scared if this is gonna cause any long term affects on me! I’m praying it doesn’t! But this steroid has had me so messed up and for a while there I thought I was crazy n just letting my anxiety get to me but it’s not that at all, it’s these pills!
I’m luckily done with them as of today but not I’m scared theres more to come! I’ve never heard of something as simple as a steroid causing things like this, it blows my mind! I never had trouble with them when I was younger this honestly just recently started about a year or so ago, and now I’ve been researching since all of this has been happening to me to find out that I’m far from the only one! I just pray this doesn’t continue and it goes away and they I have no long term affects from it, and I pray it doesn’t compromise my health it anyway! I just couldn’t wrap my head around why this pill that was suppose to me making me feel better from pneumonia was making me feel so much worse! I mean I was short of breath and having trouble with my lungs before but taking his has made me feel ten times worse!
I don’t recommend it I really don’t! If u start having any symptoms I have listed above when you start a steroid id advise you to stop them immediately because I promise you, you don’t want to go through this! I wouldn’t wish these feelings on my worst enemy and that’s the truth!! So sorry to all of you who have had to go through this as well, it’s not joke and very serious and nothing to mess with!
Joan
Trenton, NJ
I was where you are now a few months ago after taking prednisone five+ months. Your story sounds so much line mine and I am here to tell you that you will get better and recover. it may not be easy but you will be yourself again. I never thought it would be because that’s what this medicine makes you think. Just hang in there
…you will be o.k. and just keep hugging your babies.
Joan
Katherine
Motherwell
I was on 20 mg prednisilone for two wks. By second day I was trembling and felt weak. Couldn’t even carry two dinner plates in the one hand or I was totally shaking ! I carried on with the drug to clear my sinus infection which it did but after four weeks I am still shaking. Feeling tired a lot. Internal tremors coming from neck to shoulders and back. Arms are also affected. I also feel a pulse / twitch in my mouth. My stress and anxiety levels are horrendous to the extent I’m struggling to cope and can’t focus. The slightest thing sets me off and I get strange feelings in my arms as well as a bit of jabbing pain. Had I known this would happen I would never have taken this evil drug but I was never warned. I’m hoping that it will all settle down and I can get back to a normal functioning life
Rhys
Oakland CA
I was bitten on the eyebrow by a mosquito in the wee hours. Awoke with a severe allergic reaction to the bite, eye swollen shut, very painful.
The doc had me take a single dose of 20 mg Prednisone (plus Benadryl every 4 hours for 2 days.) I think that one dose of Prednisone probably helped turn the tide of the allergic reaction, but now, days later, after only one dose, I feel like hell. Anxious, irritated, light-sensitive and headachy. The feeling I have is that I’m not out of the woods yet, and it’s scary. I hope others can relate.
I know steroids can be wonder-drugs, but considering the way I feel now, I wish I’d somehow found a different way to overcome the allergy. This stinks.
Wendy
Canada
I just wanted to add something, not specifically about prednisone, but about corticosteroids. Some people can have negative reactions from prescribed nasal sprays and topical creams with corticosteroids as well. Even though the dose is small and has to be absorbed through the skin, I guess some people are VERY sensitive.
My husband had insomnia and went into a very dark mood when on Nasonex a few years ago. We figured out what the problem was and he stopped taking it. Now he has Viaderm KC cream for a fungal skin infection and after several days of application I have seen his sleep habits and personality change just as it did with the Nasonex. These are very small doses compared to the stories here about prednisone, but I cannot doubt that these small doses are affecting him adversely.
I hope we can get through the next few days until the infection is cleared up. It does help to understand what is going on.
Allison
Thank you for that information. I am on Clobetasol for eczema and Nasal spray for allergy/asthma. I was wondering about these.
sara
NY
Does anyone know how long before all side effects go away after a 7-day (high dosage) course of Prednisone?
I was prescribed prednisone for loss of hearing following a cold in my sinuses. It was to be a 22-day course, but I stopped taking it after day 7.
For me it has been a nightmare. This is a very powerful drug, and I do wish the Doctor had been more cautionary in his approach. The dose was 6 days at 60mg and then a taper-down for the rest.
There was zero positive effect on my ear but the negative effects were/ are as follows:
-Gain of a total of 15 pounds over 6 days (and I exercise and have an extremely healthy diet).
-Face bloated like a panda bear.
-A feeling of being in a different dimension/place
-Moments of numbing/electric strings tingling in toes/feet and fingers (like I’d touched a sea urchin
-Strange dreams and complete lack of orientation–wasn’t sure where I was when I woke.
-No sleep on days 3-5 no sleep–just tossed and turned in bed and had an all-over feeling of aches and pain.
-Flu/cold symptoms (I think the massive shock to my system just weakened my immune system too)
–Generally feeling aggressive, less thoughtful, less “emotionally” generous.
–Things that I would typically not be bothered by made me want to scream and hit the wall.
–Lastly, sexually frustrated–have the desire but can’t reach orgasm
I tapered to 50 mg on day 7 and then stopped after reading a few medical studies stating that for short term intense dosing, that was the new thinking on approach.
It’s now seven days since my last dose, and I still have some of the side effects and have lost about half the weight.
Larry S.
indiana
Was put on prednisone 50 mg a day for an eye infection. After about 2 months, I finally got to see an eye specialist who did surgery and removed a blister on the white part of my eye. The blister turned out to be a heart worm. I finally got off prednisone. The side effects were hell. I lost taste buds and have tremors in my right hand. What an experience !!!! I hope the sense of taste comes back.
Beware if you are prescribed this drug as it has bad side effects.
Rob
CT
I was put on it for an upper respiratory infection. Doc started me st 4 a day and then tapering down. I ended up having to stop it within 3 days because of the side effects. Became despondent, had moments where I would just start crying, manic thoughts and severe depression. I’m also bipolar and this sent me into a full blown bipolar episode. Thankfully those around me were understanding but I needed help getting talked down from what would have turned into suicidal thoughts. Everyone please please be careful when taking it, especially if you have a pre existing mental problem/disorder/ailment
Christopher
Lincoln NE.
Started taking prednisone 60 mg for 5 days this morning at 11 and it’s been over twelve hours and I can’t sleep and my heart is racing. Kinda scared. What should I do?
Lynn
Prednisone is a terrible drug that should only be taken to treat dire or life-threatening conditions. I was prescribed it for a sinus infection, and had I known about the side effects, I never would’ve taken it (they were far worse than the actual illness).
If your condition is a minor complaint like mine, ask your doctor about stopping the Prednisone.
Stephanie
Virginia
So, I’m on prednisone for shingles(I’m 22). I’m coming off of it now, and the only thing I have to say for myself coming off it so far( it’s been a day) is that I’m exstreamly angry, and I’m exstreamly tired. Everything upsets me to the point where I’m about to cry. Also while I was on it the first couple days I could not sleep because it has me so wired. I stayed up and cleaned basically all night. Also about an hour or so after I would take it I would get hot, then cold. I ate everything I could find in my house as well.
Samantha
Houston
I had shrimp scampi from the local grocery store (ate about 6 pieces of shrimp) Sunday night with a light salad for dinner and went to the gym an hour or so later to do some light cardio. After about 30 minutes my face heated up and left the gym. Sure enough the hives came with a vengeance this time. I took a couple of benadryl tablets and didn’t help much as hives was going through it’s cycle. I’ve had hives before from shrimp and it was hit or miss so I took chances here and there. After this experience, no more. The next morning I woke up with my face puffy and I was scared as I looked at myself in the mirror. It has never been that bad. I went to urgent care that morning and was prescribed 20mg of Prednisone for 5 days and he actually prescribed 10 pills and told me to take one a day for 5 days with no tapering instructions. This is day 3 and I’m tapering off with 10 mg today for the next 3 days and then 5mg the next 3. My gut told me to look into this because it didn’t feel right and did a quick search and found this website. I am feeling a little irritable and slightly depressed and I’m usually calm and chill. Yesterday evening I made it a point to the gym and get some cardio and blood flow going and I felt better 2 hours later as I was getting ready for bed. The swelling on my face even went down and noticed water retention in my legs. A red flag for me to check out what this Prednisone really is. It took longer to fall asleep and the sleep was not the quality sleep that I normally get. I’m experiencing indigestion and constipation too though it’s manageable. Thank you for this site and contributors for sharing their experiences about this scary drug. Be well.
Margaret
Chicago,IL
Lynn,
Im a transplant patient who has shown signs of rejection in my kidney after 9.5 years.
I went in for a doctors appointment, left 4 days later. In those four days of being hospitalized I was receiving IV pred. Well since that can’t just abruptly change it to just be off of it completely, I went home with 200mg by mouth the first day, 180 the second day down by 120mg the third ect. Well tomorrow I have 80mg to take in the morning. And let me say, I have been researching and researching online to find anywhere if all these symptoms are related to this medication!! And from what you wrote, it sounds like I absolutely am having the worst of the worst symptoms. I’m extremely anxious, tired but now its midnight and I slept for 7 hours today because I had to take a Xanax because I thought that my heart was going to jump out of my chest. And I have numbness on my left chin! like I was at the dentist and and Novocaine. I can’t wait to finish this dose! This is insane! I look like a chipmunk, and cry probably 2x a day. I hope who every is researching this medication finds all these posts, because its makes me feel slightly better that I’m not actually loosing my mind. It has to be this medication! Even made an appointment for a full body massage tomorrow, because my whole body just aches!
Thanks for all the information everyone! And if someone has had numbness, that would help me put that at ease too. I know if I had a facial droop, or slurred speech or blurry vision I would go to the hospital, but I think its just a side effect and will go away when I’m off this by Friday!
Lynn
These posts have helped me deal with my Prednisone-induced anxiety, so I’m including my own experience in hopes it will help someone else.
I was given 20mg of Prednisone twice a day for five days, plus a steroid shot.
On the third day, I experienced anxiety and extreme depression to the point of suicidal thoughts. I didn’t know these were side effects of Prednisone, so I continued to finish my dose. My anxiety increased tremendously.
During my time on Prednisone, I experienced a severe ear ache, and the doctor gave me Tramadol. The next morning a woke up completely dizzy, and I had an odd, vibration-like sensation in my ear. Basically, if I moved my head or walked at all, I would feel the vibration of the movement in my ear for a second or so after I stopped actually moving. Then, the muscles in my neck started twitching, and these progressed to full-on tremors, which occurred intermittently and lasted for about three days. I blamed these strange occurrences on Tramadol and stopped taking it after three or four doses. Now, I wonder if they were more to blame on the Prednisone.
After two weeks of stopping Prednisone, I was still extremely anxious and developed visible tremors down my arms and hands, but these went away shortly after they first manifested, only to be replaced by an internal, shaky feeling: I wasn’t visibly trembling, but I still felt shaky or it sometimes felt like the objects beneath me (such as the couch when lying down) were vibrating. This was very disconcerting and made my anxiety worse. I began wondering if I had some weird medical condition and began researching on the Internet for hours on end. I also developed insomnia and could not sleep without the help of Ambien.
The good news: three or so weeks after stopping Prednisone, the odd sensations in my ear began to dissipate and disappear. After four weeks, I overcame my insomnia and could sleep without a sleeping aid.
It is now nearly four and a half weeks after I stopped Prednisone, and I feel much better, but I still have minor flares of anxiety that hit me periodically (mostly when I wake up or try to go to sleep). These include internal shakiness, tightness in chest, pain, tingling, and feeling as though my pulse is fast, though I’m unsure if it actually is.
All of this is to assure you that if you’re experiencing Prednisone-induced anxiety, don’t worry. You will get better. Most doctors will claim it’s not the Predisone, but it is, and keeping that in mind will help you deal with your symptoms. Remember that anxiety can cause all kinds of bizarre symptoms (just Google “complete list anxiety symptoms”), and the symptoms of Prednisone anxiety will manifest differently in different people. The best thing to do is give yourself time to recover and don’t rush yourself, inform your friends and family about the situation so they will understand, and perhaps find some good vitamin supplements. Magnesium is said to be good for anxiety, but be careful. It can cause some bad digestive issues, especially magnesium oxide.
Keep going. If you have your own story, please include it here. Knowledge is power, and hopefully these collective tales will help other people deal with their own experience.
Samantha
Indianapolis
Lynn,
THANK YOU FOR POSTING THIS!!!! I am currently eight days prednisone free as of today and am still experiencing these symptoms that all started the day I stopped taking the drug (inner shakiness, anxiety, somewhat “foggy” brain, more effort to concentrate, shakiness in neck muscles, vibration in ear, etc.). I would LOVE to know how long these side effects lasted for you as I would kill to be myself again. Nothing has been normal physically or mentally for me in the last week and the doctors chalk it up to regular stress of college (I am 20 and a full time student). Again I would love to know how long these sensations lasted and when they will disappear :( I am so sorry you had to experience this!!!
Allison
Thank you. Want to add one thing: I was fortunate enough to have an ER doctor who has seen this often. He said it is extremely common to have the side effects that I have read her.
That man made me feel somewhat sane again.
Kourtni
Sacramento CA
I have had to take prednisone on and off for my m.s.and asthma for the past five years, and it has changed my life.I have gained 100 pounds,I have strange weight distribution(very round fat face and upper body).sometimes my whole body feels like one big bruise, and I sometimes feel like I am in an alternate universe.there are many other nasty side effects I have dealt with, but these are the worst.it’s unfortunatelythe only medication that seems to help me out of an asthma exasribation, and also helpef with regaining my vision after having optic neurotis twice.in my house, we call it the P word.
Vicki
Coffs Harbour, AUSTRALIA
My daughter and I both have respiratory illnesses and and are often prescribed Prednisone for exacerbations of our conditions. Clearly steroids are wonder drugs for treatment of our illnesses but the side effects that both of us experience are horrific. In addition to physical side-effects such as retaining fluid we experience extreme emotional and personality changing effects. Primarily, we become manic and adversarial, we also have trouble sleeping. All filters are removed from our communications with others and, although we are aware of the effect high doses of Cortico-steroids have on us, we have no ability to resist or over-ride the symptoms. We also become highly emotional and anxious. Bouts of illness become emotional roller-coasters that we are lucky to emerge from with friendships and relationships intact. I also have a habit of becoming a shop-a-holic and with access to the internet from my hospital bed have had a few memorable sprees that I am still paying off.
I am sure that there are few health professionals who have any idea or understanding of the possible psychological side effects of this class of drug. Only through repeated interaction with my daughter and I have our doctor and nursing staff at our local hospital come to recognize the symptoms we suffer and become more understanding.
Brickelle
Connecticut
My boyfriend was prescribed prednisone for a sinus infection that had been affecting him for over 3 months. This was about our fourth trip to the doctor when he was finally prescribed prednisone. He was on 40 mg a day for three days. No tapering off just 40 mg a day for three days then stop, cold turkey. The doctor had never warned us about the terrible side effects nor did she taper him off like she was supposed to. Had we known he would have these horrific side effects he would have never taken the medicine. One Night while we were watching TV (his first full night off prednisone) he stood up and said my brain is going to explode call 911. I wasn’t sure what was going on, I felt his heart and it felt like it was beating outside of his chest. He was very manic and just kept saying I’m going to die I’m going to die. He was completely disoriented and sweating head to toe. After being seen in the hospital, multiple head scans and a spinal tap was preformed nothing was medically wrong with him. It was ruled out that these terrible side effects were from being cut off of the prednisone so abruptly. So essentially his body was going through withdrawals. The next day he still didn’t feel like himself but he seemed OK compared to the night before. Then the following day he went into a state of complete anxiety close to what had happened when we had to call 911. His effects were psychosis, anxiety attacks, severe headaches, lightheadedness, loss of appetite, and not feeling like himself. I would not recommend this drug to anybody who is not in a life-threatening situation. Had the doctor warned us of the side effects and taperd him off maybe this would not have happened.
Octavien
How is he now? Is he alright? Has the symptoms subsided? I am on day 10 of withdrawal.. I have severe anxiety that i cannot go out without a pain attack..
Simba
Texas
Two Opthamologist that performed cataract surgery had me onPrednisone before and after surgery in eye drop form. Do not understAnd if it causes cataracts and glaucoma why do they insist on taking eye drops four times a day for over three weeks?
vj
Australia
I was diagnosed with crohn’s disease this year and had a couple of steroid doses already . I kept getting nausea and slight pain off and on ,though my inflammation levels were down . Not sure why the doctor prescribed me to take 25mg again ,almost 2 weeks now .Though I have always been around 45 kgs ,during pregnancy I was 60 kgs and now I am only 38 kgs.
I am feeling so down with my weight and weak because of steroids .
Laura
Dayton, Ohio
I went to my local ER to obtain a diagnosis of hives and contact dermatitis. The doctor discharged me with a prescription of prednisone at 20 mg for 12 days. The first three days I am taking 4 pills then reducing the dosage. The only side effects I am experiencing is an increased in my appetite and trouble sleeping but the pharmacist informed me about the side effects. I am drinking a lot more. Once I am done with the medication I am going to follow up with a dermatologist to be tested for a latex allergy.
Jo
Florida
Last Sunday night I ate a box of cinnamon red hots candy. I hadn’t eaten this candy since I was in my teens. I am 44 now. I suffered a severe anaphylactic reaction. I never knew I had a cinnamon allergy. Now, I have to carry an Epi Pen . That night, I took a benadryl but it did nothing. Went to the ER at 10 pm and they admitted me at 2 am. I spent 24 hours there. They had me on massive doses of IV benadryl and methylprednisolone. Now, I am on a high dose of 60 mg daily prednisone for 5 days. Each day, I feel worse. I have two more doses to go, and I am chomping at the bit. I feel flu like, exhausted, my eyes burn, and I have trouble breathing. Terrible abdominal pain and nausea. I can barely force down cream of wheat. I am recovering from a pulmonary embolism 7 weeks out, taking a blood thinner. This event has seriously set me back. I had planned on returning to work this past Monday when this happened. I took prednisone for pneumonia a few years ago, and I know it is supposed to help you feel better, when you’re sick. Why do I feel worse? Perhaps I picked up a bug in the hospital. My resistance is low already due to my blood clot. This is a nightmare. Has anyone else experienced flu like symptoms? Thank you
Sharon
Riverside, Ca
Prednisone is a life saver for me. It took me a couple of years to get my Dr to prescribe it at 5 mg a day dose and I love it! All the aches and pains, gone! Inflammation in my joints to the point where you can feel the heat to touch, gone! Diagnosed with connective tissue disorder among other things. Antiphospholipid syndrome caused a blood clot which led to a BKA last February and now kinda started on my own taking 20 mg a day to combat the excruciating pain, swelling and ganglion cysts in both wrists (probably from the constant use moving the wheelchair) and it works! No real side effects and walking more and more with my prosthetic. Really hoping my Dr will change my dosage without a fight.
Alicia
Oregon
I am 40. I was prescribed 60mg of prednisone (20mg /3x/day). I am on day 5. My treatment could last 1 to 2 years. My symptoms are clearing up, somewhat…but, I feel like I’m in limbo…. I’m not doing too bad. I’m a bit more tired than usual…but, overall – none of these terrible issues. Am I in the calm before the storm or am I going to be one of the lucky ones who won’t suffer from the extreme effects? My condition is considered progressive to fatal if not controlled, so I don’t have any other choice right now. My doctor has me on Calcium and Vit D in addition to my prednisone everyday. He advised me to get a mammogram, pap smear, vision check, etc….just to determine baselines and whatnot. He is incredibly receptive to emails and phone calls. I feel like he is taking very good care of me….. I just feel like I am waiting for the hammer to fall….. Does anyone take high-dose, long-term steroids and escape all the havoc?
Dawn
Arizona
Let me first say that I think your doctor is taking very good care of you! I do think that it’s early days for you as far as side effects go……the longer you are on it, the more side effects you will have. I really don’t think that you will escape the side effects, believe me! I began on 40mg of Prednisone in Jan 2015 for Giant Cell Arteritis. Like you, it is necessary for me to take it as I could have gone blind or had a stroke; thus I am thankful for the drug. I only wish there weren’t so many side effects. At 40mg I had very bad emotional meltdowns and my doctor had to decrease the dosage. I have been tapering off the drug slowly; I am currently on 10mg and I will decrease by 1mg per month until I am off of it, unless of course there is a relapse. I experience sleep problems and am always tired. It is a good thing I am not working anymore as it would be hard for me to hold down a job. I would say to you, be aware of any side effects that really bother you and report them to your doctor. My own doctor takes very good care of me and is quite aware of all the side effects of this drug. One strange side effect of mine; my hair has turned curly since I’ve been on the drug…..I am wondering if this side effect will go away once I am off of it. Good luck…..60mg is a high dose for a year or more.
Aurélie
I’ve taken a high dose for extended periods and my side effects are always insomnia, tiredness, increased appetite, and irritability
CJ
I took high doses of prednisone for 5 years for lupus. Trust me it’ll catch up to you. I felt great in the beginning too and the it hit like a ton of bricks. All kinds of crazy stuff started happening to me but docs kept blaming it on the disease. When I weened myself off a lot of that stuff went away never to return again. I am still dealing with damage caused by it though. Sounds scary? Well it is. This drug should be banned except in cases of emergency. Prescribing it to people long term is just wrong!
Gwenola Barr
Australia
I have severe brittle asthma and as such have been on prednisone periodically since the age of three.
I’m used to going on two-six week tapering doses of prednisone/prednisilone every year at least twice for severe bronchitis, pneumonia or double pneumonia.
As I got older this was reduced to three day stints for bronchitis and upper respitory infections.
When I was 21 I suddenly experienced the weirdest body shock, tingles and chest pain. I was rushed to hospital and found to have crazy hyperkaleamia (elevated potassium levels) at three points over the acceptable levels. They couldn’t find the cause as they burnt off quicky with salbutamol and glucose. Doctors and specialists speculated if it was my excessive clarinet playing (laughable) or the most recent stint of prednisone (more likely).
I did all I could to avoid prednisone at all costs and was even removed from all bronchodilators that had a inhaled corticosteroid base. That worked poorly for my asthma but great for everything else.
I’m about to turn 25, on a three week streak of prednisilone and counting. I’m also petrifying my new husband. The constant changes in my inhalers has done irreversible damage and scar tissue to my lungs while sending me to hospital with severe asthma attacks and paradoxical bronchospams three times in the last week. I’ve been bouncing between 50mg, 25mg and 12.5mg of prednisilone during this time and my system is nuts.
I loathe corticosteriods. Immensely. However…if I had more competent physicians perhaps I wouldn’t have had four years of asthma suicide. Prednisone or dead lungs? Prednisone any day.
I really hope people think of others who have to take corticosteroids for excessive peroids of time even years! I count blessings even when the cushing’s syndrome kicks in that I know I can at least taper off in a few weeks.
Perspective please people. If you only have to have it for a sinus infection or a minor allergy count yourself lucky.
jwa
UK
Hey, I’m on 6 x 5mg course for a fortnight as recently diagnosed with asthma., thankfully it’s my last day today & the nurse will be getting told I don’t want to keep taking this.
My excessive sweating (already a problem!) has reached new attractive levels & night sweats are an absolute delight. I can tell when it’s 11am as I feel like I’ve drunk 5litres of red bull as I’m in fight or flight mode (which lasts all day btw) and am completely intolerant to any heat. And now my thighs are shaky with a strange pain and walking up stairs is a struggle. Not to mention that I feel like I am carrying a tyre round my waist. I’m trying to find the humour in the situation but it’s a struggle when you arrive at work, dripping wet, red faced and hardly being able to walk at 7.30am and it’s 7deg outside.
The leaflet says the benefits outweigh the side effects – are they kidding? I’m a mess.
justjoan61
I just finished a medrol dose pack 5day and now have terrible generalized itching not related to the poison sumac rash for which I being treated….was hoping other folks may have had similar reactions or rebound symptoms…..the itching can be maddening at times.
Anyone have any idea how long this will last????
CJK
Columbus
My husband is on prednisone. I am allergic to it. He sweats a lot since taking this drug. Am I in danger if exposed to his body fluids?
Aurélie
How do you know you’re allergic?
Dloos
Ca.
I was presribed Prednisone and an antiviral for Shingles. I had a ten day prescription starting at 60 MG dosage. After three days, I started the taper down.
My shingles symptoms were knocked out the first day, and I was so grateful. But, even though I tried to ask questions about what to expect from the drugs, no one really told me what to expect. I have been off all the drugs for six days. Still feeling very shaky, weak, and generally not myself. I tire easily, feel very hot and sweaty. My emotions are all over the place.
My heart goes out to anyone who has to use this drug for very long. I hope I never have anything serious enough to make me take it again. I will avoid it if I can.
vivian mccarter
sweetwater,tenn.
The Dr.’s put me on prednisone mainly b/c of my weght loss, ilost down to 82lbs after my first by-pass. which did put weight back on me,well, I thought it was weight, it was actually fluid building up
Andrew
Melbourne
I just had sinus surgery and caught a cold, once the blood had stopped from the surgery the cold or bacteria had started to block my ears and I still couldn’t smell. Took 20mg of cortisone, and I could smell for the first time, ears popped and I felt wonderful.
Will not continue on, but it is a wonderful drug
rlf
I too have the emotion side effect, I didn’t know what was causing it until I seen this site. I’ve not been in such a deep depressive state like this for a long long time. I’m halfway through my doses and hope it will get better fast.
Serouj
Lebanon
Cortisone is a miraculous drug but only if you know when and how to use it. I’m 28 years old only and this drug ruined my life because of taking it for so long, without the Dr. Approval since it is so cheap and I could have it without a prescription. It Cured my IBS so well that I got addicted to it.
Please be careful, don’t make a lifetime mistake, I can literally fill pages of my story. In short, I ended up having bilateral total hip replacements, and then MRSA followed up…
Andrew
Melbourne
I just had sinus surgery and caught a cold, once the blood had stopped from the surgery the cold or bacteria had started to block my ears and I still couldn’t smell. Took 20mg of cortisone, and I could smell for the first time, ears popped and I felt wonderful.
Will not continue on, but it is a wonderful drug
Richard
Oregon
I have been on Predinsone for 30 years for Addisons and now have a few bone problems. My normal dose is 10 mg daily but now with MM. multiple Myloma I need 35 mg to have a normal life. I always sleep good and have been on 60 mg daily for a few months with no problems. The MM cancer made my bone so brittle my lower spine collapsed and I am now five inches shorter than before. MM cancer hates Predinsone so that is one good side effect from taking so much. All of these health problems are from exposer to Agent Orange in Viet Nam. I am now 71 years old and still living a good life because of Predinsone.
SC
Arizona
I was prescribed Prednisone for a sinus infection. No cautions from the Dr. or the Pharmacist. Took 1st dose of 20 mg Friday evening, then 2 of same doses on Saturday, 12 hours apart. Slept terrible Saturday night. When others say “don’t stop suddenly” do 3 doses indicate a high enough level that I need to worry? I would rather just take the amoxicillian and not the steroid…is that a problem?
Cj
In my sleep one night, I hit my mouth pretty badly, to the point where it cut my lips. The next day it was sore and obviously sensetive but I took it in stride and went on with my day.
As the day progressed, I developed severe hives all over my neck, in my ear, and mouth. My lip also tripled in size, so of course I went to the ER.
I have always had a strange immune response to things. My neck lymph nodes have been swollen to the size of a quarter when I was 9 months old with no explanation other than “you’re just fighting off an infection”. I’ve had continual migraines, eye twitching (that eye has also lost its ability to focus properly and is sometimes tinged with blood), seizures, arthritis, sensetivity to the sun and fluorescent lights, unexplained rashes and mild hives that were mistaken for cystic acne (for years!)..
So, at the ER, they could find no direct cause for the hives other than perhaps my immune system overreacted to the mouth injury. But with my history, it was extreme, and I had never experienced a reaction this bad. Also, for the record, I am only allergic to mold and malic acid additives.
I was prescribed prednisone, 40mg 2x/day for 5 days. The first day was, well, weird, but calm. By the second day I had noticed a number of positive signs: an immediate decrease in inflammation throughout my body even in places where I didn’t know I had issues; I was able to sleep through the night the entire time as well, and I haven’t been able to do that in some time; for the first time in years, a 12 year-old back injury didn’t bother me as much; I could get out of bed without a 45-minute struggle; my joints actually popped again; my fevers stopped; my eye never itched or twitched once. And by day 3 the lymph nodes had shrunk from a quarter to the size of a pea.
I was not tapered off this drug. And I have not yet been able to see my gp for a follow up yet, but as for side effects, here is what I experienced:
-bruising that healed slowly
-dull headaches at the ending of 1 dose into the 2nd for the day
-fuzzy memory
-lack of focus
-bursts of energy
-mild shaking
-morning inner chills
-increased urination
Those were the big things. If I did get a headache, a single anti-inflammatory medicine solved it quickly versus it taking over an hour if it worked at all before being on the prednisone.
Im not sure if, because of my specific medical history, the prednisone worked better for me than most people I’ve read about, or what? I feel terrible for those who have experienced such negative side effects, but I was almost getting the opposite of what I read. I didn’t feel super healthy or amazing or whatever, but I just felt more normal.
Now that I am off the steroid which was originally prescribed for hives, my lymph nodes are beginning to swell again, the fevers and headaches continue. What I experienced as life long symptoms BEFORE the drug oddly seem like the side effects most of you have after taking it :( so its hard to distinguish if im experiencing the side effects or just reverting back to my usual state ive grown to abhor over the past 31 years.
I feel as if it is being misprescribed, and definitely in the wrong doses. It really did work well for my issues, but it is perhaps because i have an underlying immune disorder that requires it to keep my body in balance.
I dont know just yet.
I wish you all the best.
David
New York
I was very surprised to hear the terrible side effects people are experiencing. I am 66 and very allergic to bee stings. I found out at age 60 that prednisone can be used to treat the severe symptoms I get. It works quickly to knock down the swelling, sting, itch and redness. It’s amazing how long it takes to find out health saving information. I have had Prednisone before for some sinus infections and the like. If it weren’t so bad for your body long term I would like to be able to take it like aspirin if needed. It gave me great well being, lots of energy, a great appetite and all my aches and pains were non existant. This stuff is great! However it is a controlled substance and probably should be because of the distructive things it can do to your body. If you look at any drug prescription you get, there is a whole page of side effects for all of them. If you read that first, you probably wouldn’t want to take any of them! However, you have to weigh the good with the bad and see how the drug works for you. If you are having these reactions you need to contact your doctor(as the directions say) and have her/him change you to a different drug that will have little or no side effects. Sometimes, it will take a while to find the best drug that fits your needs. Sometimes, some people will be susceptible to every drug tried and you will unfortunately have to cope with the misery of side effects until the major problem is treated. I found out at age 60 from a first time doctor at an On Call treatment center that the prednisone worked so well for my bee stings, Hope you can find the right Dr. for your needs. Hope your side effects clear up quickly. Good luck and God Bless.-Dave
Wanda
Ohio
Just can’t believe that 95% of comments are all negative. I had symptoms of Giant Cell Arteritis for 6 weeks, lost 14 lbs, didn’t eat, didn’t know why, headache, a fever for weeks, lethargic, then, noticed the temple area was discolored. Put on prednisone 60mg and within 24 hrs, EVERY symptom stopped! For me…a miracle drug. Few side effects, like dry mouth, swollen ankles and a little unsteady on my feet. Positive test for the Giant Cell Arteritis, so, will continue on it for a year or more. I’m 90.
Emma
Hampshire, UK
I was put on 100mg a day for 3 weeks, then 75mg / week, then 50mg / week, then 25mg / week, then 15mg / 3 days, now 10mg / 3 days and finally 5mg for 1 week. I was prescriped this for Warm Auto Immune Hemolytic Anaemia. I believe mine started as the highest dose out of all the comments I’ve read here & I suffered with insomnia, tearfulness & water retention, but worse than that was the distended abdomen I got from taking omeprazole as a precautionary measure in case I got heartburn from the steroids.
Becky
Cape Coral, FL
I have ulcerative colitis and taking Prednisone to put my autoimmune disease in remission is a necessary evil. I have taken my first 20 mg dose this morning and so far so good. I feel considerably better. The last round of the drug I ruptured my plantaris tendon from the intense charlie horses I constantly suffered from. I was more emotionally erratic and had trouble sleeping. I don’t want to loose my colon. As bad as the drug is, my choice would be the drug. A week from now I may have a different view. Good luck and best wishes to all so ill that they take Prednisone.
Emma-Lee
NZ
Hi Everyone, I’m in the same Boat! I am currently taking prednisone 40mg/ day for tonsilitis and sleep apnia- For 5 days the 20mg for 5 days. I am also taking erythomycin antibiotic as well for the bug. The first two days I was pretty much normal and fine, a little bit dehydrated and had a dry mouth but nothing too major. I feel hungry all the time as well. My sleeping was okay- I felt like I was very tired but I didn’t want to sleep. But when I went to sleep- usually 12ish at night- slept until 9.30 am and had a long sleep. Experienced light headaches every now and then. Today I woke up and felt like crap. I am happy because I can breathe now but I was crying for about 3 hours. Just really upset. I feel cold and I have been pooing 3 times a day. I feel like I want to stop taking it because I hate this feeling. My skin looks crappy and has acne all over. I am off work for a few more days but I don’t know how any one can work on these pills! Good luck to any one taking this- hang in there! Also, no one told me about the side effects of this either :(
sss
Australia
I’m down to 7.5 mg/day of Prednisolone. I’m taking Maxolon for the nausea that comes in “waves”. Sleep is completely disrupted now, it is a case of sleeping at anytime of the day.
My food intake has dropped and merely looking at it or worse, smelling food, makes me want to vomit.
Pam
Ohio
Was on 25 mg. twice a day for 4 days, then once a day for 3 days then 1/2 pill for three days. Skipped the last day which was yesterday. I didn’t realize these HORRIBLE symptoms were from the weaning off period….thought it was from the build up in my system. Now I am wondering if I should’ve taken it. I couldn’t take this anymore…..no sleeping, then only sleeping, vision problems, dizziness, EXTREME itching, sweating, rash, feeling isolated, grumpy, distant, hunger….then when I eat IBS. This is truly a deal with the devil. All of this for Bursitis, which is very painful, but not sure it was worth the trade off. I actually feel like I can’t live like this. Honestly it was good to find this site. Now I have a shred of hope my sanity will return. God bless you that HAVE to take this. I hope you are one of the blessed ones with no symptoms. Ugh……..
Dorothy
New jersey
At the end of June,I was bitten by an insect.my arm swelled up and I didn’t feel well. Went to primary. While he was examining my arm, my throat started to close up.He gave me 2. 20 mgs of prednisone. It stopped the closing.days later,I could not take any blood pressure medications without my throat tightening and my lips puffing up somewhat with(angio edema). Went to allergist,was put on one after prednisonethe other of antihistamines! When taken was still getting same symptoms, Had to go to er several times,only to be given Benadryl and sent home with prednisone tablets 20 mgs take 2every day for 5 days. Still having problems with angioedema and throat.went to Mount Sinai hospital to new allergist,recommended by allergist I had been going to,she did blood work,told me to stop prednisone next day by taking 10 mgs for 3 days,then 5 mgs for 3 days after I was always on 40 mgs every day on and off during 3 month period! I am on my third day and I have off balance,ringing in my head,sometimes I have to stop and think about what I was. Doing, my BP has been very erratic, too high then to low then slo pulse then faster pulse up and down. Point is not one of these medical people explained anything about the side effects of prednisone!,,I will continue to slowly,much more slower,than the Dr had told me to do after 10 mgs once a day I will go several days with 5mgs once a day or. Twice a day.The worst part is when I wanted to taper more slowly.and would need more 5 mgs of prednisone, they didn’t agree!
Jenny
Perth
I have just done a small tapering course of Prednisone 25mg and I am only here now because of a special friend getting me through. If I didn’t have him I would not be here! I went from Euphoria to the lowest of low, I could’ve quite easily taken my own life! I had high blood pressure, was absolutely red in the face and neck for hours each night, burning face. I felt crazy! My heart was racing, I felt so depressed and worthless! NEVER again!
Renee
Wash., DC
Have had medrol packs for severe allergy related asthma throughtout my life. Never remember anything worse than insomnia, a huge appetite, being emotional, AND being able to breathe again. Now that I in my late 50s, I find myself on once again on a Medrol pack (with all the above symptoms) and a splitting migraine-like headache. Yes, the headache is debilitating, but I can breath!! For me the trade off is worth it. I always ask for the drug inserts from the drug companies when I get a script, because many times doctors are to busy to explain side effects. Everyone’s bodies react differently to different meds. And as you age, your reactions can change. So sorry to hear such bad reactions. I learned a long time ago when it comes to medicine – it pays to be an informed consumer. It is your body and your money — educate yourself — especially if you have chronic conditions. It makes my doctor-patient relationships much better. And if your doctor doesn’t like an informed patient — find a new one.
Val
UK
I am seventy six and have a long list of medical conditions. the most relevant to this discussion being Essential Thrombocythemia for which I was on different types of chemo for a long time. None of these had as bad side effects as when my respiratory Consultant put me on 30 mg of prednisone to be taken daily in one dose.
Maybe it was because I was already taking asprin, levothyroxine, Beclometasone and Spiriva inhalers. Or maybe r it was because she at the same time prescribed clo . I can understand that she might be attempting heroic methods because of my latest diagnosis either adenoma of the lung or a long term Pneumonia which wont clear. To be fair, my very young Consultant is very kind and did give me three options . Monitor closely and do nothing. Medication, or biopsy followed by surgery What a fool I was if only I had chosen the first . Its eight days now since I stopped both the antibiotic and the prednisone . The side effects have left me extremely weak, with increased breathlessness, short term memory loss, problems with my potassium levels and and an inability to concentrate among others. I am hoping this will clear at some point, if not then I have decreased my quality of life considerably. Definitely the Devils Drug. Val. M
Betty
Midlothian van.
I have started on predidone . And 3 days of no sleep. Not feeling bad.but not good either. Taking 2 pills a day of 20 mg . Each but pain I was having stopped. Was told take 40 mg. a day for week then 20 mg. a day for next week. Don’t know what to expect later. Betty
Diane Goguen
naples fl
I too am taking similar to Medrol Dose Pak for itching and burning feet. Having very severe symptoms like I feel like I am speeding, heart ready to jump out of my chest. Unable to relax and more. My feet still burn and itch! Had to stop in mid process of taking these meds for 7 days due to severe reaction. I work at a hospital and am thinking seriously after work today to go the the ER!! help if you know what I can do.
Rachael
NZ
I grew up on prednisone from the ages of 5 till 14 for chronic asthma attacks. I don’t remember feeling so dreadful as a child but am now worried about the long term effects? I also had a course while suffering from Bells Palsy at 9 months pregnant which resolved 3 weeks later, there was no discussion on effects to my son either? I’m currently on a short course for a upper respiratory infection with chronic asthma symptoms which I haven’t had for 25 years. I feel dreadful, nausea, insomnia and fluid retention, I will taper off this tomorrow as am not prepared to continue 40mgs for another 5 days. The list of side effects is disgraceful and not one warning from my GP
sss
Australia
Updating my last post 16th August 2015, I’m now down to 10mg/day. The acne is slowly going away, the fluid retention is not as bad as last year but still frequent toilet visits.
Now, the bad effects….. sleeping is sporadic and at any time of the day. Dizziness has increased, lethargy has increased. Extreme tiredness is sudden and extreme, hence the need to sleep at odd hours.
My short term memory has deteriorated, decision making and cognitive function has worsened. Migraines have worsened. Clumsiness and lack of precision movement has worsened.
The drop in prednisolone levels have also resulted in the return of my osteoarthritic pain throughout my body and my asthma has returned. Both of these conditions will deteriorate as the prednisolone level continues to drop.
Due to these symptoms, I have let my friends and family down by forgetting things or not keeping agreed arrangements. They are very tolerant and understanding, but it makes you feel terrible.
This is unrelenting. Symptoms could go on for another 12 months, IF I don’t have another sarcoidosis flare up in the mean time. If that happens, the horror starts all over again.
Prednisolone is a life saving drug, it has been around for over 60 years and no drug since has been able to replace it entirely. Prednisolone is unique in what it does for people, BUT, it comes with a huge sting in the tail and it inflicts this sting mercilessly.
The more you take it, the effects of withdrawal are more severe, so you never get used to it. One other thing to bear in mind, it is not strictly the level change itself that causes the severity of withdrawal, but the percentage by which the dose changes.
I’m having another dizzy episode……
Yousra
I have the same issues.. I could not describe them better than you did.. I’ve been on prednisone since last May and all I can do is hope that it will end soon.
Sandy
Georgia
I’ve been suffering with a rash over most of my body since mid June. Went to dermatologist and they did nothing, just said I was allergic to something(duh) gave me some cream. No results. Went to the allergist and she said “chronic itch” and gave me nothing. Continues to pop up on various parts of my body. So frustrated so I went to my primary care. I truly value his opinion and feel he will get to the bottom of it. Labs were all normal. Put me on a 5 day course if prednisone. I’ve taken 3 pills so far and have red, hot places on my arms, feet are swollen, face is on fire. I don’t know if I should stop it or not! Somebody help!
Tina
Memphis
I would like to suggest a complete gluten free diet. It has to be absolute, though, no hidden wheat. You have to check every label. I started getting strange rashes over 3 years ago and after testing drs couldn’t find anything likely. Even celiac test came back okay. I was sick and did the diet anyways. Never felt better in my entire life! I recently tried to eat some wheat here and there and the rash came back.
Dan
46322
Been on 10mg twice a day for knee surgery and L3/4 spinal problems. Sleep patterns irregular. Very intense front shoulder pains. Cannot lift arms past a few inches. But, without the prednisone, can barely walk, cannot get out of chair or bed by myself. Keep the pain meds, I’ll take steroids for a short time. Hope the taper down is easier than some I have read.
Samantha
Charleston, SC
I hate few things in life. Prednisone I hold at the top of the short list.
I had a severe allergic reaction to wasp stings where I had no previous allergic reactions ever. I was prescribed 40mg of Prednisone for 4 days after my initial treatment at the clinic (no taper). Day 1-3 I had elevated heart rate, flush face, anxiety, dizziness, fatigue and nightmares. Reported side effects to the doctor and was told to not take my day 4 dose. Day 4 elevated heart rate, anxiety, dizziness, disoriented, light sensitivity, noise sensitivity, irritable, weight loss, fuzzy cognitive abilities. Day 5 crying, irritable, extreme fatigue, nightmares, light sensitivity, noise sensitivity, fuzzy cognitive abilities and can’t function at work.
This is horrible stuff. Side effects and withdrawals. Its like being punished for wanting to avoid the side effects. I hope to never have to take this poison again.
heidi
howell mi
Samantha- thank you for sharing! I was put on prednisone as well 40 mg once a day (first dose in emergency due to a allergic reaction ( they THINK) to another med.. Your day 5 was my day one! I thought I was literally losing my mind put a call into my Dr. who thought I was just having anxiety over the rash..?(which was gone). Put me on low dose of klonopin .. which only made more tired but with same anxiety. I took half the dose the next day and skipped the next. Starting to feel somewhat better (not sure how long med stays in system)… but I will never ever take again. Complete emotional rollercoaster and worst three days of my life. I wanted my husband to take me to Hospital because I was so out of control. Reading these posts helps me realize that this kind of reaction can happen! life saving yes for some.. for me it made me feel like ending mine.
Marcia
Illinois
From the past I remember how rough prednisone can be. I got severely constipated, couldn’t sleep, and had muscle cramps. Also had a lot of the emotional things others mentioned. I am on 40mg of prednisone a day for four days, and THIS time I’m taking Ambien to sleep, Colace for a stool softener, and Flexeril in a small dose once at night for the muscle cramps. It’s only for a short time, so I can do it but my sympathies to those who don’t know about these things.
don
Brownwood, TX
I have been taken Prednisone for over 40 years for my ITP (low platelet count). Sometimes dosages were as high as 100 mg per day. Now 40 years later, I have not been able to find a doctor who will help or suggest any kind of treatment.
Victoria
Canada
I was prescribed prednisone 50mg for 5 days due to anaphylactic shock .
Day 1-2 no side effects
Day 3 -5- agitated , aggression , mood changes , depression , dry mouth .
Once coming off this drug my body felt very sore . Felt as if I was bruised internally everywhere .
The drug helped me at my time of need but at a cost I wish not to relive again .
Luis
Clermont FL
How long was it till all the side effects were gone ? Because I took the same dose but for 4 days
DAWN
Arizona
Update from June 27, 2015…….I still continue to taper the Prednisone dose slowly, reducing by 2.5mg per month. Right now on 12.5mg per day for a month, then will go to 10mg per month. Once I am on 10mg I will only reduce the dose by 1mg per month until I am completely off of this drug. I am hopeful I will not relapse, (Temporal Arteritis). This has been a long journey with many more months ahead of me, but at least I am showing progress and improvement. The doctor took me off of the Glipazide already as my fasting blood sugar is normal now; other blood work results are great also. I am working on losing the weight gained while on Prednisone, (about 20 lbs), hopefully this will come off soon! I am wondering about other side effects and the outcome once I am off Prednisone. I lost a lot of hair for a while, now that has stopped and my hair has changed somewhat, coming back curly!?? Anyone experience that? I did Google it and read that it happens. My puffy face is going down and skin is better, but still having sleep issues. I also developed tinnitus which is slight but still there and wondering if that will vanish once I am off. Believe me, the months can’t go by fast enough for me now. I want to be off this drug!
sharan
Fargo
I have to use prednisone every four months for allergies, sinus infections and stomach problems, I never have any problems with it, it is a life saver, it makes me normal again!! I don’t know what I would do without it… Sorry to hear that it is not working for some of you..
Valery
South Africa
My doctor prescribed 40mg of prednisone for 5 days due to sinusitis and an allergy, I’m not someone that usually completes my meds as I don’t like taking chemicals to cure a mild illness, I normally take vit supplements and or make some kind of herbal concoction, for that, it takes longer to heal but its safer. Anyways this time around I decided to follow docs orders after having an health episode earlier this year, the predisones helped relieve my symptoms for about 3 days or so, although I became hyper active, had food cravings, I think this was because of gastritis, my stomach became bloated and gasy, I was burping alot, to top it all I swear I started seeing and hearing things, a few minutes after dosing off, I’d get these strange thoughts or visions of scary things, heart palpitations and over sensitive hearing, before taking the meds I surfed the internet for side effects and came across an unbelievably long list, despite that I still took them as directed by my doctor “as doctor’s know best”, 2 days Iater I went back to the doctor and mentioned to her that I wasn’t getting any better, instead she told me to continue taking my meds without even acknowledging the side effects and atleast suggesting that I taper instead of abruptly stopping.
Today is day 7, my second day since my last dose, I had nightmares last night, indigestion and heartburn plus the effects of the heartburn, pain along my arm, pain in my chest, back and stomach. I felt disorientated the whole day, thought I wasn’t going to make it across the road safely, it’s like I’m present physically but not mentally, I am extremely moody and agitated.
I’m sorry to hear that so many people are suffering from the adverse side effects of this drug, but in a way I feel some what relieved that I’m not crazy. I shall never take this drug again unless maybe I’m diagnosed with a terminal illness but not without exploring other options first.
I hope everyone who is currently going through withdrawal symptoms has a speedy recovery.
Kelley Sorensen
England
I started on intaveinous predislone the started on 60mg daily for 1 week then dropping to 50mg I’m now on 40mg and I’ve been suffering severe mania and anxiety I’ve had terrible shaking and terrible visual hallucinations like massive spiders crawling around me I even started self harming I had to call an ambulance to help me calm down, I’ve now been given olanzpine anti psychotic’s to ease my mania I would not recommend taking this steroid ever very evil medication.
Kelly B.
Port Townsend WA
I have been taking a maintenance dose of 5mg predsisone/day for going on 10 years to treat my scleroderma. I recently missed my annual check up and forgot to schedule another. My doc would not refill until I had an appointment scheduled. I had been distracted helping take care of a terminal family member and ended up accidentally going a week without it. I want to share my withdrawal symptoms so that others will be able to compare their symptoms should they ever find themselves in a similar hellish situation.
Severe fatigue
body aches
muscle weakness
joint pain
sweats (predominantly facial sweating)
no appetite
fever/chills
shakes/tremors
dehydration – despite lots of H20
headache
low blood pressure
confusion/short term memory loss
I have read answers from doctors and pharmacists telling people that their chills/shakes/tremors are not a symptom of prednisone withdrawal but after experiencing it myself and reading that others have too – I am here to tell the experts – you are wrong.
Even though I was only off of my 5mg dose for a little over a week, it took me more than a month to feel back to my normal after getting back on.
Diane
Toowoomba Australia
I have been diagnosed with polymyalgia rheumatica with giant cell arteritis just after Easter 2015 and was immediately put on 60mg of prednisone for 3 months. The side affects have been life changing for me. My eyes are badly affected with one eye continually half closed and the other with blurred watery vision. I’m very unsteady on my feet so I need to use walking sticks most days. I have numbness/tingling in the soles of my feet, insomnia, face lesions, swollen red moon face and a very low immune system. Specialist rheumatologist weaning me down to 10mg per day by mid November 2015 and doing weekly blood tests. She’s very thorough, but I worry about the long term effects on my eyes. I.e. Will my sight return to normal? D.E.G.C.
Kris
Cairns, Australia
I was prescribed Prednisone for my Cluster Headaches at the rate of 175mg for the first day tapering down to nothing over a period of about 4 months. This happened every year for a number of years. The side effects were unbearable and I’d beg the neurologist to try another medication but he insisted I stay on this. At the time I had no idea it was wreaking havoc with my bones. I had a minor motorcycle accident where I broke my back and became a paraplegic from having such weak bones. There were no warning signs of osteoporosis and no-one every suggested I have a bone scan. Eventually after 7 years of being in a wheelchair I managed to convince a doctor to refer me for the bone scan and the results came back with a T score of -3.3 (severe osteoporosis). A doctor has since suggested I take Prednisone again for these headaches and he couldn’t understand why I flat out refused! I can no longer walk or stand or work, am in constant agonising pain and I still get the headaches. Go figure!
Lupus
Took 65mg of predisone for 2 1/2 yrs. It was unbearable. Needless to say it was due to punmonia and other thing however it never helped my migraines. Yes For years I did know they were from LUPUS cause I didn’t know I had it. Anyway I do see a neurologist strictly for migraines and she injects botox throughout and at certain points surrounding my head every three months and it works!
Lupus
Took 65mg of predisone for 2 1/2 yrs. It was unbearable. Needless to say it was due to punmonia and other thing however it never helped my migraines. Yes For years I didn’t know they were from LUPUS cause I didn’t know I had it. Anyway I do see a neurologist strictly for migraines and she injects botox throughout and at certain points surrounding my head every three months and it works!
Marion
Australia
I had double pneumonia and some asthma and was hospitalized.
With the first 50 mg dose of prednisone I had a short hallucination (about 8 seconds) where I saw a devil on the roof with his claws evolving towards me ) -didn’t happen with the second dose however.
I had no idea they were connected until I talked to people about it at a later date.
CORNELIA
jacksonville
I can relate to these side effects. My life with my husband who is taking prednisone is a living hell.
RMK
Georgia
I have taken Prednisone Pack 10 mg many times for my RA, I had no side effects as those listed in some of the post, the only side effect I had was it made me eat a lot more. It is the only thing that helps my pain when I have a bad RA flare up. Don’t let the other articles scare you Prednisone is not all bad, maybe some people just can’t take steroids, not just Prednisone any type of steroid medication it just happen to be prednisone they were prescribed.
sss
Australia
RMK, you are fortunate you only have to take 10mg/day, at that dose, the side effects are minimal for you, very good.
These articles are not on here to scare anyone. Those of us on high doses for long periods do suffer. We are posting our experiences for people who have not been told what steroid use can do to them.
And yes, some of us cannot cope even with low doses such as yours. I have never been able to take any level of prednisolone without suffering it’s consequences, consider your self lucky.
john
london
I have had reactive arthritis now in my hands for 8 weeks. The consultant prescribed me a six-week course of Prednisone: 30 mg for 7 days then tapering to 25mg for 7 days.
The first night was last night. I did not sleep at all. Thought I was going insane. I had a very strong headache and went downstairs at 4am for water. My lower legs ached and felt so heavy I struggled to get back up. I got back into bed but my legs would not stop shaking, and my head was banging.
The worst night of my life.
Anyway, I took it again this morning, thinking that the Doctor knows best and now have a full blown severe headache. I then started to research and found these posts and will not be taking this drug again. The side effects are way worse than the pain in my hands and with the possibility of many more as I continue. Glad I stumbled onto this page.
Barbara
Florida
Now I’m a little scared. My husband has been in the hospital for 3 days getting 500mg of prednisone a day and then we have 6 weeks more of it at home for bad panuveitis. Has anyone ever had this high a dose?
Marion
Omg -I know nothing about dosages but I thought 50 mg was high!
sss
Australia
I was on 50mg /day of Prednisolone for several months last year and dropped to 37.5mg/day until the end of 2014.
I have incurable, chronic sarcoidosis of my lungs an auto-immune disease where your body attacks the lung tissue. The first symptom of a flare up is uveitis of either one or both eyes. Prednisolone and the eye drop version Predniferen are the only drugs I have. I will die of the effects of sarcoid eventually, I have just over 10 years left. I also have chronic asthma and prone to lung infections.
Right now I am coming of a course of 25mg/day after another flare up since May this year. I’m down to 12.5mg/day and coming off it VERY slowly and gradually, such is the sensitivity I have to prednisolone levels.
Because of Prednisolone, I have daily bouts of nausea, disrupted and irregular sleep patterns, migraines and frequent visits to the toilet because of fluid build up. Long term damage now includes brittle bones.
rick
new york
OMG! And I thought the 350 per day my neighbor is on for a lung condition was unheard of.
500mg oughta cure anything. I was on 10mg 3x per day and was told to wean off by doing 2x a day for 2 days and then 1x a day for 3 days. I forgot the last two days and by third was almost at a stage of being mentally committed but doctor said it would pass in 8 hrs. It did but seriously, the Docs need to strongly emphasize with caps how dangerous this stuff is if not used properly. Can’t imagine accidentally missing a day while weaning off 500mg. That will take months.
Karen
Indiana
Yes I am on 1000 mg IV every day IV outpatient at the hospital for 3 days in a row. The every week for. Total of 6 week protocol. Hang in
Fred K.
La Mesa, CA
My now 38 yo son developed asthma as a child. As a young teen he had extreme episodes that twice required hospitalizations at Children’s Hospital in Washington D.C. The asthma was so bad air leaked from his lungs and felt like bubble wrap under the skin. Both times he was given high doses of prednisone. The first time it worked as intended; not so the second time.
Nurses apparently were not given, misread, or simply did not follow the instructions to taper the dose after it had reached the level necessary to heal his lungs. Instead, they stopped the medication all at once. What followed has been a nearly 25 year nightmare. His reaction was extreme psychosis for two weeks during which he hallucinated and talked gibberish. He gradually came out of it–like an iceberg melting–but he has never been the same since. A genetic predisposition to bipolar exerted itself at that point, and our poor son has never been the same since.
My ex-wife was a medical professional herself (a med tech) and wouldn’t hear of suing the hospital and the docs because she had been brainwashed to believe that medical professionals made mistakes and should not be blamed for normal errors. As his condition has worsened over the years and the cost of care become overwhelming, she changed her mind, but it was long past the tolling of statute of limitations in D.C.
Not a lot we can do any more but roll with the punches. He’s still asthmatic and relies always on his breather. Psychotic periods come and go as they do with bipolar 1s. With no chance of a career, our son faces an uncertain future. Now as we approach old age, the worry is what will happen to him when we can’t care for him any longer. We don’t know. We will set up a trust, but who knows how long we will last, or the trust after that?
Maybe someone can learn from this.
Hannah
Canada
I was put on prednisone for my Graves’ disease. One eye was inflamed and enlarged. Very lucky to be living in a place with great health care. I was put on 60mg prednisone daily, and slowly tapered down to 5mg daily over the course of 3 months. In the beginning I definitely felt the psychological effects of such a high dose. I was irritable and angry, always hungry, just not myself. I’ve been taking it now for about 4 months and the symptoms have mostly gone away. In any case, I would prefer this to losing my eyesight!
Debbie
Georgia
I tried to read the comments here for something to relate to, but immediately became frightened and overwhelmed. I was prescribed methylpredisone pack. I have been suffering with severe inflammation in my legs and feet for three years now and was to the point where I was beyond desperate. I haven’t even been able to get to the shower alone for years, and a trip to the bathroom ended in tears.
For the first three days on prednisone, I thought I had received a miracle tour. My legs felt like my own again, and even though I still had to use a walker, the pain wasn’t scream worthy anymore. I am on day six now, the last day, and down to one pill. The pain in my legs is still minimal, but the side effects have been pretty bad. The last two days, I have been extremely nervous, feeling like I was on the verge of a panic attack at all times. My sleep has been disrupted. While I never get more than four hours at a time, I am now waking up every hour or two. At first, I thought it was just to go to the bathroom because the swelling was going own, but now it’s hard to stop my racing thoughts long enough to get to sleep, or fall back to sleep. My heart is racing and I feel shaky. If you have ever read the book Flowers for Algernon, that is what this drug makes me feel. To know there is something out there to relieve the pain, but can not be used very often and leaves me with horrible side-effects, is a nightmare.
Jackie
I was on 60 mg a day for 7 days. Monday, August 3rd, was my last day. While taking orednisone, I had no effects. After stopping is when all hell broke lose. I too, felt knotted and severely bruised, particularly on my neck and back. My heart rate and blood pressure have gone up significantly as well. The bruised feeling subsided from my back and into my arms. It is slowly dissipating, yet my heart rate and blood pressure are still elevated. I sometimes feel like my nerves are firing all at once., almost like buzzing. I just hope that I can return to “normal” soon. I will never take this again!!
alassandra
Troy Mi
What about steroid pred forte. Eye drops for 12 yrs for uveitis. Dr would not take me off of them. After 12 years I got rid of the dr. New dr took me off doing fine. What are side effects.
In
pa
I am so glad that I found this information before starting a steroid burst ( the urgent care doctor called it) which is 20 mg or prednisone- 3 times a day. I had an allergic reaction to something I ate, though I have no known allergies- which started with burning and itching in my eyes where a bump developed on the lower lid, traveled to my throat where it felt dry and hoarse, followed by my chest which became hollow and burned when I coughed. Then I began to itch everywhere, including my hidden parts, my chest. Began to close and it was difficult to take breaths. I was wheezing and my mom said I had rails. I’ve never before experienced a reaction like this. And I will have to follow up with an allergist, but when the prednisone was prescribed I was given a list of side effects ONLY when I questioned the doc. Even then, the list was given sort of flippantly.
I was also given an inhaler, which I am more inclined to use, IF necessary, but I will call my primary doctor tomorrow to ask if I MUST take the prednisone. All things considered, I probably will not take this steroid burst…I’m still alive today, yet it was prescribed yesterday.
rizz
I am 12 years old and have a case of severe ulcerative colitis.
I have been prescribed 40mg prednisolone once a day and have been tapering it down for almost 5 weeks. I am now on a dosage of 35mg, and my body is aching like crazy. I keep getting cramps and muscle pulls/strains just walking around the house. My body feels sore and hurts really badly. If I just touch myself gently I get a little bit of headache, and my joints hurt. My face has puffed up, and I have been taking prednisolone because it stops my flare-ups and helps me gain a little bit of weight (since I have lost a lot of weight due to blood loss). I was under 5 stone at the age of 11.5 when I was diagnosed at the hospital. Amazingly, when I came out I was over 8 stones due to the steroids (prednisolone);
These things are life savers. If you are prescribed these and don’t want to take them because of the side effects, remember no pain, no gain.
L. C.
Los Angeles, CA
Today is 8-2-2015. I traveled to Asia and got sick on the plane. I had 2 bouts of Bronchitis in 60 days. On 7-10-15 I was given prednisone: 20 mg tablets to take by mouth twice daily for 5 days. On the 3rd day, 7-12-15, I had never in my life experienced such a bad headache w/feeling nauseated. Today 8-2-15 I am still having this headache on daily basis. On my last day of medication I thought I was having a heart attack and checked my self into the emergency room. Also I am bloated like a balloon (for a small person this looks crazy) and have pain in my upper stomach. I also have insomnia, blurry vision & today 8-2-15 I am experiencing a symptom of shaking.
When is this going to stop? My prescription ended 7-14-15. When the doctor prescribed this medication I remember telling her that I am very sensitive so asked for a small dose. I was not aware of this drug before. So here I am 19 days later with daily headaches, bleeding, stomach pain, blurry vision, insomnia, nervousness. After taking this drug everything has changed for the worse in my body.
Dan
Sydney
I was prescribed 20mg Prednisilone for 10 days by ENT for bad Tinnitus. After 2 days I started experiencing anxiety and felt quite low (note: I’ve never had problems with anxiety or depression before). I explained this to my ENT and he said I could stop but then we won’t know if the drug worked. I decided to persevere for another 5 days. BIG mistake. The anxiety was pulsing through my body non-stop and I was feeling really depressed. I think I slept for about 1-2 hours per night and even then it wasn’t really sleeping. The anxiety exacerbated the Tinnitus and I felt like my world was caving in. The anxiety and depression persisted for another 5-6 weeks after I stopped. I am now in week 7 and feel like I am starting to stabilise although I still have bouts of anxiety that seem more ‘physical’ than ‘mental’. I pray I never need to use this drug again. Oh, and it did absolutely nothing for my tinnitus.
marie
canada
I have had Crohn’s disease since my teens, I’m now 64. Had 2 serious flareups that latest years and prednisone was part of the medical treatment to no avail for before I finally had surgery. By then I was a wreck, high fever, severe weight loss and anemia, skin problems, eye problems, arthritis, severe pain, etc.
Then due to prednisone affecting the healing process, the bowel surgery was a disaster with internal hemmorage after 2 days, and another 2 months spent in the hospital while wound was left open to heal, fighting infection and going through prednisone withdrawal.
Next flareup same scenario, prednisone for a year and a half, poor healing, and severe withdrawal symptoms for 6 months in spite of slow tapering of this terrible drug.
Now, have another flareup with eyes, arthritis and skin inflammation for last 2 years. Swore I would not take prednisone ever again, eye doctor promised the .1% prednisone drops would not bother me.
After 3 days, feeling awful with nausea, headaques, dizziness, heart palpitations, poor sleep etc.. Discontinued the drops. Now waiting for the withdrawal of this miniscule dose of .1% drops of prednisone four times a day to happen.
I agree with everybody, unless you are going to die otherwise, stay away from this drug, it’s not worth it. I’m sure I suffer from long term effects of having taken this drug for very long periods of time, this can never be reversed. So much for the golden years…
Sandra
MN
Did you get your hearing back? I’m going through the exact same thing. The ringing and sensitivity are horrible I’m on day 10 of 14 day taper on prednisone.
Lisa
CT
I’ve been on and off prednisone for over a year now for asthma and bronchitis. The dose the doctor starts me on is a at 80 mg for 3 days and it’s a taper every 3 days as follows 80 mg, 60mg, 40mg, 20mg. The side effects are really rough especially when I come off I have extreme pain, swelling and fatigue. I’ve gained over 50 pounds as well.
My biggest problem is once I come off the broncitus and asthma attacks return so the doctor has to restart me on 60mg or 80mg. Back in May I ended up hospitalized for the breathing issues and was on an IV dose of 120mg and was released on pill form of 60mg. The doctor actually had me taper down from 60, 40, 20 (each for 3 days) to 10 for a few weeks then down to 5 for a few weeks. After being off prednisone for a week the breathing issues returned. I feel as if my adrenal gland isn’t working. Does anyone have any suggestions to help my body working normal again.
Ginger
I’m going to add this from a medical/scientific perspective coupled with that of a patient. Taking prednisone is in essence messing with your endocrine system by pumping yourself with a very unnatural hormone surge. There is literally no way that this will not have negative side effects both in the short term and even in the long term.
People can develop the life threatening disease Addison’s (cortisol insufficiency) off taking prednisone for extended periods of time, though more commonly they unknowingly get sucked into adrenal fatigue (which is sadly mostly unrecognized by the medical community currently) which can take month or YEARS to heal. We can rock the boat of the endocrine system very quickly thanks to pharmaceuticals, but it can take a very long time for our bodies to recover because our “boats” were not designed to be rocked that violently so quickly.
I agree that this is a medicine that should be reserved ONLY for special, life-saving measures and even then be only very carefully considered, OR when there are very particular extenuating circumstances such as with chronic illness where prednisone really is the only thing that seems to give a patient a good recovery of both quantity and quality of life.
Sometimes taking a medicine vs not taking it is about choosing the lesser of two evils, rather than taking a medicine as a glowing, haloed salvation for our medical need. Unfortunately we aren’t always properly informed in advance that our bottled salvation comes with horns and a pitchfork.
Rosalie
Aloha, OR
I have been on prednisone since the middle of May, for Giant Cel Arteritis. Started with 60mg, was tapering down. Then because of question about my eyes, had to go back to 60mg. Am now down to 40mg and get to go to 30mg tomorrow for 7 days.
Even with tapering, I am not noticing any change in the weakness. My upper body remains strong, but lower body very weak. Have no pain, except some in lower back. They tell me that it’s from spinal stenosis (dont know if that just comes along with Giant Cel, or what, but it’s the only pain I have.) Am in high hopes that the lower dosage, beginning tomorrow, will make a positive change in my strength!
tom
los angeles
8 years ago I had a liver transplant and was prescribed a lot of prednisone for the first few weeks after I left the hospital. A week after I got home I tried to start a fight – like punches etc – with my 25 year old son. It was so stupid we both started laughing. But that was me and prednisone all the way. It gave me a short fuse and stupid judgment. I was glad when I didn’t have to take it again.
Don
Usa
If you would bother to read the pharmacology information included when you get these prescriptions filled you will find lots of warnings about the side effects and withdrawal. The trouble is people do not make an attempt to educate themselves or even bother asking the doctor about it. Take responsibility for your healthcare and stop blaming the doctor. Any medication and that includes OTC drugs like Tylenol and Benadryl have side effects and adverse reactions. Would you prefer to go back in time when there were no medicines when you got sick? One last thing then I’ll get off my soap box. When you’re sick don’t expect a “magic pill” that is going to make you all better. There is no such thing! Prednisone has its purposes and can save your life but take it responsibly. Before you swallow any medication even OTC ones be proactive and educate yourself about them. Make sure you know what you’re putting in your body Or your child’s body!
Eric
Wilmington, NC.
Took Prednisone for only a few days. Now sitting here anxious, shaky, unable to sleep wishing I never took those wretched pills! Nothing was explained about side effects, especially withdrawals and I only took them once a day for only three days! Doctors need to better educate their patients on this mess!
wendy
boise id
I am so very thankful to read all the comments. And glad that I looked this up. I went to a doc in the box and they prescribed Prednisone for a lung infection. I am on my second day and I am scared. I don’t think anyone can describe the absolute terror of feeling as tho your drowning down a dark well.
I am depressed, more then sad, confused, disoriented and couldn’t or shouldn’t drive. I know that my infection is serious but I am going to find another option. I lost my son in 2008 and then my brother in 2012. I still have a very hard time dealing with it. I am on medication for depression.
I believe that this drug should NEVER be prescribed for people with a history of depression. I feel as if I am reliving my personal nightmare of my loss all over again. Initially I looked up side effects to see if joint pain was one of them. Then as the day went on and my sorrow just kept getting worse, I did more research. The horses back end, condescending, pompous, self ordained God does not belong in the medical community.
I can only guess at how many people have this type of side effect without realizing that it IS a side effect. I feel better knowing that my deep sadness comes from a pill and not because I’m having problems coping. I agree that this should only be prescribed as a last resort. Now knowing why I feel the way I do, that last dose is the last dose for me.
Wendy
mark
perth australia
Reading all the bad reviews on here I thought my experience might help some. I was prescribed 25mg once daily for 10 days for chronic and so far undiagnosed knee pain and inflammation following a knee reconstruction and subsequent failed revision. My experience – only day 7 but all good so far. No side effects but knee is significantly less painful and swollen. I only wish I could keep taking it but obvioiusly this is not a long term option.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
5 weeks today prednisone free…..when will I feel normal again?? Aches, pains, anxiety and some depression. Please, any answers? Thank you!
Johnny
SD
Prednisone is the devils drug, sure “he” offers you relief or a cure, but “he” fails to tell you that you’ll pay a lot trying to get your body functioning normal again.
I was prescribed three cycles back to back, each two weeks long. They started at 40 mg a day and gradually decreased the dose every few days over the 14 days .
I’m on day eight after my last dose. It’s been awful. The first 3-4 days were hell. Vomiting, extreme headaches, unbelievable fatigue, chills, and debilitating joint and muscle pain. Today is better, but still having all over body pain and headaches.
There is nothing I can think of, other than the prevention of death, that will make me consider taking this devil drug again! Curse the doctors who put me on it for back pain!
Steve
Ottawa, Canada
Was prescribed 50mg once a day for 5 days and it has almost cured a very bad case of poison ivy. I am on day 3 and am experiencing sore neck and feels like I was punched in the nose, I have also had intermittent shakes, heart palpitation and insomnia… also feel dazed and like my face is swollen but it is not.
The poison ivy was so bad I am reluctant to stop so will try to continue to Day 5.
Ash
So today I went to the ER for anaphylactic shock. I was on Amoxicillin for a tooth issue and apparently I’m allergic, so I developed an allergy to it and I puffed up. I went to the ER and I had taken Benadryl before so within an hour of waiting, it went down.
They kept me there for another hour while I was waiting for my Prednisone prescription. While this was happening, my Benadryl wore off and I swelled up everywhere. They immediately gave me an IV and they first gave me saline to flush out the Amoxicillin and then a small dosage of Benadryl though IV due to me taking it earlier. Then came the Prednisone.
Half way through the injection, my throat swelled and I felt as though someone was pouring isopropyl alcohol down my nose and into my throat. I stopped breathing for a few seconds and began to cough and wheeze.. Everyone in the ER stopped and looked at me and I was trying to tell my nurse what was happening. It went back to normal after about 15 seconds because of the Benadryl taking away that reaction.
I almost needed Epinephrine but I was OK. The nurse then said that was my Amoxicillin reaction but everyone else knew it wasn’t. I was given a little more Benadryl but I still needed the Prednisone so I was given a large dosage in a bag of it. Two hours later, I was OK and I was discharged and given a prescription for Prednisone. Now it is about 12 hours later and I am extremely agitated, restless, anxious, disorientation, confusion, dizziness, and hypertension. I am trying to keep calm and keep the symptoms from getting to my head, which seems to work a bit.
As a precaution, if you are allergic to Penicillin and any of its derivatives, try to avoid Prednisone. *BTW I’m also mildly allergic to cinnamon, ginger, and latex so I don’t know what’s happening* I have never been to the ER or hospital before this other than a broken wrist and have not needed to go to the doctor other than for checkups and boosters and whatnot. We waited a week because it happened last Sunday as well and it wasn’t nearly as bad. If you experience any signs of anaphylaxis, I suggest you go and get checked out and not wait like me.
Diane C.
United States
I also was never told about the horrible side effects of prednisone so at this point in time my sugar and BP is high, I have unbearable reflux, gained forty pounds in one month and that’s only part of my nightmare. Ask if there’s an alternative besides steroids and if not, read up on it, and talk to your doctor before you take it.
Jeb
After doing some damage to my shoulder, I was today prescribed this drug for the inflammation. Not knowing any better, and trusting doctors, I took the two 20mg tablets. What a mistake.
I have been suffering for the last 8 hours, can’t stand any light and sound, throbbing head ache, deep pain in the thighs, racing heart, dizziness, sweating, sore eyes, forgetfulness, huge joint pain.
I’ve now been in stage 2 hypertension for the last 3 hours, somewhat close to stage 3. I was probably at stage 3 earlier today given how much worse I felt then compared to now.
I have flushed the rest of the pills and will never touch these things again. I cannot wait until this stuff is out of my system. I’d rather have just put up with a sore shoulder.
maria
I did not realize how bad this med is! I was prescribed 10mg for 7 days for bad allergies. Was not warned about all the bad side effects and was not told about being weaning off! I will definitely complain to my regular doctor since another doctor prescribed it to me.
Hana
Maryland
Can you advise me how to get it out of my system?
Christine
Australia
I’ve been taking Prednisone 50mg day for the last 10 days for liver failure after antibiotics for an infection. Prescribed by a specialist doctor who did not tell me the full story about this medication. I already knew it was a medicine that I didn’t want to be on. Jitters, anxiety, anger bursts, insomnia, frequent urination, raised blood sugar, insatiable appetite, severe reflux. Each day is bringing something new. I have just started weaning from this horrid drug which depending on blood work will conclude in a month. This all confirms my lack of faith in modern medicine and I’m ready to jump off this train wreck and explore a natural, holistic approach.
Suzanne
Australia
Christine did they give you somac for the reflux…it protects the upper gi tract when taking prednisolone. I also take ranitidine in the late afternoon. Have just finished 2 months on prednisolone for proteinuria…50 mgs a day … Just started 40 mgs for 1 minth then will taper down again. Main complaint has been fluid retention and not being able to fit into my good boots. And a bit of a moon face. Got fitted for thigh high compression stockings and notice if i dont eat salty junk eg chips fluid retention is less. I also walk and exercise regularly.
Rhonda
Ft Knox, Ky
I had a severe allergic reaction week ago and ended up in the ER. After an IV of Benadryl, Atarax & Zantac I was sent home with Prednisone 60 mg per day X’s 5 days. On the third day I experienced sudden onset of SEVERE joint pain to my left ankle and left shoulder. I was unable to walk or lay down thus getting very little sleep sitting up in a chair. This lasted 2 days and I thought I was home free… although the pain stopped as abruptly as it began on the left side… It began on my right side! Then both of my wrists! Today is day 7 and I am still experiencing pain in both shoulders. I will NEVER take a steroid again! Along with all the pain, I am tired, have lack of appetite and feel very weak.
waryscary
Australia
Thank you so much, everyone, for describing these dreadful side-effects. Two days ago I was treated in emergency department for extreme pain, swelling and dehydration 6 days after having tongue base channelling (q.v.). I was given IV saline, IV dexamethasone (don’t know the dose) and 5 mg IV morphine. After 8 hours I was discharged (feeling pretty good), with a prescription for Prednisolone 25mg to be taken for 3 days. No warnings, nothing!
I am SOOOO glad I decided not to take it! The day after the emergency department treatment I slept all day. I had shaky hands, no patience, angry, shrieking at my husband. Today I felt very emotionally fragile, on the verge of tears several times, extremely irritable and spaced out.
Now, I am realising that it must be a withdrawal from the dexamethasone (similar type of corticosteroid). I can only thank God for prompting me NOT TO TAKE THE PREDNISOLONE tablets. Reading about other people’s terrible side-effects has reassured me that I am not going crazy. It seems clear that many doctors don’t have a clue about the horrendous adverse effects of prednisolone. Unless my life is in imminent danger I, for one, shall never knowingly take any of these types of drugs again!! I wish everyone a full recovery from all their illnesses and drug side-effects.
Mike
I had to take it for 7 days to get rid of a sinus infection with intense blockage and pressure. It worked wonders and now I can sleep.
Jennifer
Australia
I had a very bad chest infection after a flu virus. My ventolin and seritide weren’t working. I went to an after hours dr. Two weeks ago and he put me on 50mg prednisone and amoxicillin. I stopped the prednisone after two weeks. Was not told to taper it off slowly. Two days after stopping it my left leg was so painful and I found it hard to walk. The third day, my right leg also was painful and I could only walk slowly with my legs feeling they were going to crumble under me.
I went to emergency and had too be wheeled in. By that time my left arm was beginning to pain. They did blood tests, X-rays, nose swab etc. I was in hospital for a day and they realised the prednisone that I stopped abruptly was the reason. They put me back on it at 25mg for three days and then 10mgs for another three days. Paradox helps the pain and I am walking fine again. I will never take this drug again and I will advise the dr that prescribed needs to talk about the process of going off it slowly. I am a very fit woman but was so scared when my legs just wouldn’t work.
Joanna
NC
6-29-2015 After starting Prednisone withing the first 24 hours it was doing wonders for my shoulder pain in conjunction with percocet, however the lower back and leg pain that began is unbearable. I can’t sit or sleep. I work at a desk all day and I’m finding myself rocking back and forth just to deal with the pain. I do get up and walk and find minor relief but not enough. I know I can’t just abruptly stop, but good grief I’d rather never have started it. Thank goodness its only a weeks worth then the weening begins. I really wish I would have asked more questions before beginning the prescription. ask ask ask questions.
Kathy
Lasvegas nevada
I took a 6 day Pak 4.. Because of severe pain in neck and back. 2 days after I finished that I was only 75 percent better. My pain Dr gave me a steroid injection in my wrist and 3 across my shoulders… I felt so much better but that was 3 weeks ago. I’ve been so depressed, so angry impossible to live with. Losing my temper, missing work because I’m so angry and crying all the time. I’ve gone through this about 4 years ago. But when you’re in so much pain you forget the horrible outcome. I just want it to be over! I’m fighting with my boyfriend my daughter my entire family! I would just rather take a month off of work and rest before I take this road again.. Feeling very discouraged… Please help
Deb
New Zealand
My 90 year old mum was 4 years ago prescribed 80mg prednisone daily, which was a mistake. Her specialist saw her records and immediately reduced it down. Her doctor then argued that he was right all along (didn’t want some specialist telling him he was wrong) and now her prescriptions for Prednisone are several different strengths, and I’ve no idea WHAT she is taking. She refuses to get a medical blister-pack, (“Four Dollars a Month??” she screeched – “No!”) so in her confusion she could very well be overdosing herself. My mother became a different person, and still being on prednisone is still not back to her old self. She is angry, volatile, abusive, paranoid, blows little things out of all proportion, is demanding, critical and the list just goes on and on. Her immune system is now so compromised she spent 6 weeks in hospital earlier this year with a range of different infections, one after the other, including pneumonia. Now she is out, she wont see anyone because she might catch an infection. So she is isolated now into the bargain.
DAWN
Arizona
An update from April 23, 2015……I am finally tapering down the Prednisone dose successfully! Yay! So far, so good. My blood work shows no inflammation now, so we are tapering very slowly, month by month. I can only decrease by 2.5mg per month, or by body reacts. Right now on 17.5mg, so this is going to take some time, but that’s fine as long as I finally get off of it! I must say that because of Prednisone I was put on numerous other meds, (glipizide, because of high blood sugar, zantac to help protect my stomach, HCTZ because I am retaining too much water) I will be glad to get rid of all these once I am off the Prednisone. Other side effects included total craziness and meltdowns at 40mg and a suppressed immune system which is probably how I got a kidney infection and shingles all in the same week 2 months ago. Experiencing hair loss, some skin problems and sweating right now. Prednisone helped my condition, (Temporal Arteritis); without it I could have gone blind or had a stroke, but I wish there had been another drug out there without all these side effects. I don’t know how people take it for years…..of course, I know they have no choice just like I didn’t. The risk of not taking it far outweighed the cure in my case and of numerous others. Just be well informed about what to expect if you are prescribed this drug.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
I finished my prednisone taper on June 13th after taking it since the end of January for a kidney auto-immune disease. When will this darn lingering depression go away? I am not experiencing too many physical side effects except my legs still feel a little weak. One day I am somewhat o.k. and the next day I’m crying all day like today. I just want to be HAPPY again and feel like a normal person. Before this whole ordeal with the prednisone I was a very HAPPY and POSITIVE person.
AA
IL
My mother had a severe cough and head ache. She had very high asthma, COPD, and sinus. All these things made her really sick. We went to the pulmonilogist and he prescribed prednisone 10 MG. After taking this medicine I realized that she became very irritable and would not sleep until 5 in the morning! She would get irritated on small little things. She has severe back pain and muscles pain after taking this steroid. Even though she went through so much pain, the medicine has still not helped her with the asthma, sinus, and COPD. My suggestion for people who are going to take this medicine is that don’t take it. It will change you into a totally different person.
Chrishonda
Nj
Monday I started feeling sick and assumed I was having an allergic reaction to some food I ate! I have asthma and allergies. My tongue and throat felt funny and my chest was heavy so I started panicking feeling like I couldn’t breathe right! I went to the ER and was given the allergic reaction treatment and something to calm me down (Xanax). I was sent home with a bottle of 20mg prednisone pills and told to take two (40mg)a day. And that they already gave me a dose. I felt like a nut I went back to the docs because I didn’t feel better I knew I had an upper respiratory infection, but I also felt crazy with panic, anxiety, jittery, restless, fear……just crazy! I told the nurse practitioner. She told me to stop taking everything including the prednisone and just take Xanax. I only had one day left so I did as told and stopped taking the prednisone and Benadryl (not really knowing about prednisone), and I also didn’t take the Xanax. I told her I didn’t want to take that. I in turn made an appointment to see the doctor for Saturday because I felt the nurse was wrong about me having an infection . The doc put me on a z pack and Robitussin for an uri. I went back to see him on Tuesday still feeling nuts he said I had bronchitis the doctor wanted to put me on 20mg of prednisone for 5 days and a different antibiotic. I refuse to take the prednisone I told him it made me feel crazy….. He said it will make you crazy like it was a joke! Well it’s not here it is Friday and I still feel like a nut. I am getting over the bronchitis. But I can’t sleep at all and every time I try to go to sleep I feel like somebody zapping my brain to wake me back up. I have headaches my nerves are bad I can’t rest and I feel like I’m nut. I still have high anxiety, insomnia and jitters! Nothing helps and I dont know what to do. I’ve been feeling like this for 12 days. The side effects of prednisone were never discussed with me, nor what would happen if i didn’t finish. I was never given the choice or the pro’s and cons about high dosage vs gradually taking it. be very careful with this drug!
Babs
USA
I was in a life threatening situation due to asthma. I was not responding to the typical meds & procedures. I was put on 20mg x5 daily for 5 days, then tapering off. I had to have another round of this high dose. I’m diabetic so my sugars are up in the 500’s – down to 70’s. I’m testing 8x daily. I would not have lived without the meds. I was that bad. I’m not coping with depression, extra tiredness, a feeling of hopelessness. That’s how I found this site. I see where others on much lower doses had problems, so I will continue to hang in there. I’ve been off the meds for almost a week & thought I’d be ‘back to normal’ by now. I’m not. Just sharing my experience…
Joy
Virginia
I just finished taking a 4 mg -6 day regimen of prednisone-6-5-4-3-2-1. I began on Sunday June 7. I had taken it a long time ago for swelling in my sinuses. It worked great but made me completely nuts. I felt as though I was coming out of my skin. I was very psychotic …mood swings from irritable to crying then yelling etc. So, I really did not want to take it again but was desperate to get rid of my pain in my feet and had been taking anti-inflammatory medication for a long time with minimal results. This time I was aware of the side effects to a certain degree and told my Dr. I would give it another shot. PRO: The pain in my feet seems to have decreased tremendously at this time. CONs: Although I was doing well, being aware of the side effects and getting through the day feeling weird and paranoid, I had OTHER side effects the last day of finishing the pills. On Friday, June 12 in the afternoon, I had terrible heart burn ….that lasted all night and all day on Saturday. I drank lots of heartburn medicine and water…I could not get enough fluids and had terrible cotton mouth. Saturday night, my head was splitting, my eyes were aching, i felt awful. SUNDAY, my head was still splitting, I had very little sleep (not that I got a lot while taking the prednisone), my throat was swollen and I had white puss on my tonsil. I felt very fatigued and just wanted to lie down in a dark room. I was convinced I had mono, tonsillitis or strep. I went to the Dr. on Monday and she was convinced it was allergies or an allergic reaction. She prescribed Musinex D. (yes, you can get it over the counter-600 m.g. )I started taking it that day…and the next morning I could tell a difference. My headache had decreased and my throat did not feel as swollen. I drank water and lots of juice…ate whatever healthy thing that seemed appealing. I was feeling much better by Tuesday. Wednesday, I felt more like myself than I had since I started taking the Presnisone! Thank you Doc and Musinex D. I believe it was an allergic reaction/withdrawal effect from the prednisone now.
After reading some of the thoughts posted, I can only say “THERE HAS GOT TO BE SOMETHING BETTER!!!!”
Gigi
LA
My experience has been similar. The deal with the devil was worth it until now. I have been suffering from really bad allergies. My doctor didn’t want to but still injected me with a steroid to help with my symptoms. I had tried everything up to that point to get things under control. I was miserable from itchy eyes, nose bleeds, fatigue. The steroid, however, 3 days later made me feel like Superwoman! I felt like myself again – better than myself. I knew this meant trouble. 2 weeks waiting for a skin test and I deteriorated again. I looked worse than before. Another shot. This time I got sick but the allergies were under control. Then, the skin test done on my back turned into this unbearable rash. That’s when I was prescribed Prednisone 20 MG twice a day fro 5 days. The rash went away. My allergies cleared. I was a new person again. I started waking up with out feeling tired between 7-8 am, which was unheard of because I was waking up at 10-11 am feeling like I had no sleep. My energy was amazing. My mind was clear. But then I started experiencing anxiety. I am already one that occasionally get anxiety on my own but this would hit so suddenly. Anything could be a trigger. Shaky hands. Today is the second day off of the medication and although my allergies haven’t been bothering me (minus the dries nostrils of all time) I woke up tired. I even took a nap today from which I woke up even more tired. My head feels fuzzy. I feel irritable. To get anything done today has been a struggle. I have to figure this all out but I just had to write about my experience.
Elizabeth
West Virginia
I am about to start prednisone with a dose of 600 mg. This is for a flare up of MS but…… I’m aware of how HIGH this dosage is but I’m in extreme need as well. Anything I should know?
Delphine
Regina
I have been on this drug since May 14, 2015 at 60 mg and reducing 5 mg weekly. Today is June 16, 2015 and now at 45 mg. I was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. I was new and unaware of this drug when prescribed it. I did so much research on it since then. It has its pros and cons. So far, I am doing good with it. I do fear being on it for life. I want to be normal again. I never take any medications for anything. Then suddenly I am battling an unsuspected autoimmune disease which I am thankful was caught soon enough. The medical professionals thought my liver was going to fail at one point. I am fortunate. I find out tomorrow if my liver is improving. I currently take vitamin D and calcium to counteract the prednisone attack on the bones. I have children…although I am not pleased with the meds I have to take, I take them for my family. They need me. I am thankful for the doctors who are looking out for me at this time. I appreciate all the stories I read. I learn a lot from them. Keep sharing.
PleidianDreams
State of disbelief
Namaste. First off I’d like to send light and love and healing to anyone reading this.
I’ve been on Prednisone for several months due to a rare blood disorder I acquired. I walked into a hospital with abdominal pain and ended up in ICU. I almost died. They interbated me and when I opened my eyes, I couldn’t feel my legs. I’ve been in a wheelchair ever since. But, I digress…….
My doctor put me on a high dose of this drug and it’s been an absolute NIGHTMARE. I am highly irritable, irrational, have crazy thoughts, and so many other problems. I do NOT like these feelings. But the prednisone is helping my condition. I do not take it everyday even though I’m supposed to. And I had no qualms on telling my doctor that. So over the course of several months, my doses have been high, then tapered. High then tapered and so on.
I have started chemotherapy three weeks ago and I hope it helps because I truly cannot take the Prednisone anymore. It’s driving me crazy. They should definitely warn people about this drug.
Anyhoo, have a splendid day. Hope you feel better….namaste
Joan
Hamilton NJ
PLEIDIANDREAM….so sorry to hear of your health issue just know that MANY, including me, have and are experiencing the same mental side as you. It is an absolutely HORRIBLE DRUG but it works and that’s why some doctors use it. I just recently came off mine. Was on since last January 80mg tapering down over the last few months. I am starting to see the “old” me emerge. I would have not believed that a few weeks ago but others on here to me to hold on and be patient and I would be ok! still have a little low lying depression and are tired. Hoping once my body and brain heal that will be gone too! Hang in there and write back to let me know how you are doing.
Joan
Zeeb
Alberta
It’s been 5 years that I was diagnosed with an auto immune kidney disease, while the prednisone (80mg) to start I’ve experienced many side effects without I’d be on dialysis or not here at all. Weight gain (120lbs), fatigue, cataracts, diabetes, osteoporosis (vertebrae collapsed & lost 1.5 inches in height), but worse than anything for me was the mood swings, for no reason at all just break down crying anywhere anytime which was very hard on family as there was nothing they could do.
I’ve been on cyclosporine for two years now and lowering my prednisone dosage but every change in dosage would cause about 2 to 3 weeks of emotional mood swings. The cyclosporine is starting to work better and I’m now down to a prednisone dosage of 10mg one day and 0mg the next hopefully off it altogether soon. But after pointing all the side effects the alternative without prednisone would have been much worse as I’m still here to ramble on.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Zeeb….. I too have been recently diagnosed with an auto-immune kidney disease (very rare) came out of no where. Started on 80mg prednisone last January and his finished after tapering last weekend. I had an absolutely HORRIBLE mental and physical side effects. At one point I could not even walk for a couple months. I am finally starting to say I feel about 60% better. I am having my last chemo treatment next week and hoping and praying my kidneys will cooperate for a long time! How long have you had your disease? It sounds like the prednisone had many side effects for you too. How long we’re you on the prednisone? I will tell you what others have told me on this site. You will feel better when you finish the prednisone and I am starting to see that in myself which just a few weeks ago could not. Good Luck and i hope you feel better soon.
Joan
Jay
Atlanta
Hey Zeeb. I am sorry to hear about all of the side effect you have had to deal with. I too suffer from an auto immune kidney disease called IgA Nephropathy. It has led to me being on dialysis. For the record, it isnt that bad. But without having functioning kidneys, your heart gets really over worked and heart desease is the end result of treatment for most people. I have been on dialysis for 2.5 years and I am currently in the process of getting a kidney transplant. Since prednisone is one of the major drugs after surgery and transplant recipients have to take it for life, I decided to read what others were saying about it. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Olena
Fairfield CA
Hi,
I was on Prednisone for 12 days, for hearing loss, I am 30 y.o. female. 4 days of 60mg, 4 days of 40 mg and 4 days of 20mg
On day 5, I stopped sleeping at night.
From day 6, my neck, jaw, chest were completely covered with terrible acne and inflammation rash.
From day 7, my face turned round as I have an ocean of water under my skin.
My upper arms got so wide and big/swollen.
Ok, I finished the last dose. My body ACHES like I was hit by the BUS.
Lymph nodes all over my body got so inflamed.
Muscle soreness and pain like I am about to burn alive.
Joint pain and pain in bones like I have an arthritis when I am 80 years old.
Should I say Prednisone didn’t return my hearing, didn’t reduce the pressure in my ears and head? Doctor prescribed it because she was sure I have an hearing nerve inflammation.
(MRI is clear, hearing test says no high frequency sounds mostly in right ear). I have hearing/pressure in ears problem since May 20th, driving through the mountains trip.
Please, if anyone know, when I will get bet to normal/no pain/no inflammation in muscles/lymph/joints after complete stop of Prednisone????????
Thank you, people
Olena
bob
san diego
Similar to the author, I was treated with Prednisone because of a middle ear problem caused by a sinus infection that would not leave. I needed to travel on an airplane in a week and told my doctor to “fix me” so the altitude changes on the plane would not make my condition worse. The doctor prescribed a 9 day regimen of Prednisone starting at 50 mg and tapering off to 20 by day 9. I had already researched the side effects and I new sleeping disorders and anxiety were common side effects. I did mention my confers to the doctor and she seemed to take what I said with a grain of salt.
I started the medication the following day and within 3 days the pressure in my infected right ear did subside and by day 4 I could start to hear normally again. The trade-off was I did in fact have trouble sleeping, would wake up in the middle of the night and have trouble getting back to sleep. On more than one occasion I was unable to get back to sleep and would take cat naps during the day to help catch up. Another symptom of the Prednisone was it made me edgy and nervous throughout the day – other time my head felt like I was in a fog and anxious at the same time. Very weird and unpleasant. I finished the 7th day and after getting a total of 1.5 hours sleep the night before I decided to discontinue Prednisone. I have been off the drug 48 hours and still feel the side effects – periods of anxiety throughout the day, excessive worry about my health and if I will ever feel normal again. I also feel fatigued throughout the day which causes more anxiety. So it has not been a whole lot of fun. Fortunately my ear is still clear and I hope it stays that way.
Joan
Trenton, NJ
Renee….so sorry to hear of your newly diagnosed disease(s). It is very scary and I know exactly what you mean when you say you don’t know what it feels like to “feel normal”. I feel the same way. Trying to stay positive the best I can and believe the others on this site that said I will be ok.
I will be thinking about you. Please write back to let me know how your getting along.
Prayers to you as well!
AF
I was Rx’d Prednisone 10mg pack for 10 days. I took it because my insurance company wouldn’t have permitted an MRI otherwise. Needless to say, I got all the usual reactions to the drug I normally get when I take it this long-mood problems (angry, depressed, irritable), swollen knee that prevents me from walking, water retention-my face looked like a full mom, and painful elbow joint that limits what I can do with that hand.
The back pain wasn’t phased by it. It’s still there. I’m considering canceling an epidural steroid procedure that’s been scheduled. I’m afraid my knee will start hurting again while my back pain might or might not get relieved. The knee pain is as bad as the back pain.
I don’t EVER want to take Prednisone again.
rantbot
Boston
My experience with prednisone has been far better than some here. I suffered serious debilitation from Crohn’s disease for many years until it was finally diagnosed by a backwoods genius GP. He put me on some 60mg/day which immediately cured excruciatingly painful joint swelling, and of course also fixed the usual digestive anomalies characteristic of Crohn’s. He didn’t give me a set dosage, just told me that it was dangerous and left it to me to taper off to some level which kept the symptoms under control. I quickly stabilized at 5mg/day and stayed at that level for several decades with no ill effects. Every few years I have a bone scan to check for calcium loss, but no problem has shown up yet. Other doctors have tried to get me off the prednisone and onto methotrexate, 6 mercaptopurine, etc, but those have not been successful. For me, only prednisone works well on the Crohn’s. I eventually worked the prednisone down to 1mg every three days, and that has been enough to keep the Crohn’s inflammation in check.
Recently an ear, nose & throat man put me on 40mg/day for a week, dropping to 20mg/day for another week. This was to treat severe nasal polyps. The polyps did indeed shrink down immediately. A nagging gout in one foot also disappeared. At 40mg, I noticed some new behavioral effects. I need almost no sleep. My energy was phenomenal. My time sense was distorted; I seemed to move faster, while other people seemed to be standing still when I walked about. I got an amazing number of things done in a day; I’d mow the lawn, change all the storm windows on the house, rearrange my computer’s file system, write several letters I’d been putting off for months, then mow the lawn again just in case I missed a spot… VERY unusual, and not like me at all. Annoying aches and pains disappeared; various twinges and annoyances due to gout or just old age were completely gone. I was in a mildly euphoric state; the weather seemed slightly nicer, the ugly parts of town didn’t look quite so ugly, clerks and cashiers at stores seemed unusually affable. I experienced manic delusions; fortunately I recognized them as such, and didn’t do anything dumb while believing myself invincible. All of this disappeared when I switched to 20mg/day. I did have some chest pains after dropping the dose, but they may have had nothing to do with the prednisone; I’m also a cardiac patient, and sometimes chest pains are just part of life.
Unfortunately the polyps were back in a matter of days, and nobody is going to prescribe 40mg/day in perpetuity just for those. Too bad; I kinda miss the manic delusions, though obviously things like that can be dangerous.
In sum, a very interesting drug, and not ALL bad news.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Why do you experience anxiety and depression when withdrawal from prednisone? Can someone please explain? I am now down to
5mg in the last week tapering down from 30 the last month or so. Started at 80 mg. the end of January and by February was “really out of it”. Still kind of feeling out of it now. (maybe not as bad) Does this happen at only 5mg? Maybe I am bringing on the anxiety and depression myself…..I just don’t know anymore, however I still am not feeling “normal”. Also, how come some doctor’s understand about the psychological side effects when taking prednisone and some doctor’s think you’re just “crazy”?
Jamie
Texas
Was given a z pack and 20mg prednisone 3xs a day for a sinus infection. I’d taken prednisone years ago for my back with no effect. This time it’s awful. I can’t stop shaking my leg and foot, very anxious, feel like crying all the time which is very unusual, insomnia, and just a general I don’t feel like myself. Zero appetite. Jaw pain on one side, but like the kind when you eat something super sour. Forget this I’m tapering after this… and this is barely day 3! Thank God I have alprazolam for sleep (worked shift work 10 yrs.) but I have to take 4x the usual amt. just to calm down, much less sleep! I hate feeling so weird and off. They should warn people. Neither the Dr. nor the pharmacist said a word about these possible side effects.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Have been on prednisone since January 2015 for a recently diagnosed autoimmune kidney disease starting at 80mg and decreasing over the last few months. I have been tapering my prednisone per my doctor’s orders and have come down from 30mg over the last few weeks and now today starting at 5mg. I am experiencing some side effects. My question is… does everyone who has taken prednisone go through some withdrawal side effects?
Joan
Trenton, NJ
Jaime K…..Joan here again… forgot to ask… did you have any side effects when taking the higher doses? That’s when mine all started 2 weeks in the 80mg dose and have been dealing with side effects all along. Have a good weekend!
Joan
Trenton, NJ
Will I ever feel normal again?! Scared to death that this depression and anxiety will never go away! I don’t even know how I am supposed to feel anymore!
Been on prednisone the last 4 months starting at 80mg and now down to 10mg. Feeling horrible… like a shell of myself. Can someone who has gone throughout this please respond? I am trying to concentrate on my new diagnosed disease and don’t want to have to deal with depression and anxiety too!
THANK YOU!!
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
CAN SOMEONE PLEASE REASSURE ME THAT MY MENTAL CONDITION WHILE TAKING THIS PREDNISONE WILL GO AWAY. I AM SO SCARED I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO. I am worried enough about my newly diagnosed auto-immune disease but the mental side effects of the prednisone are scaring me more!!! PLEASE HELP!!
Dawn R
Tucson AZ
How much Prednisone are you on? When I was on 40mg, I was having regular meltdowns……really crazy meltdowns. No patience whatsoever and screaming at my husband over the slightest thing. I had to inform my doctor who reduced the dose and I felt so much better. Talk to your doctor, you should not have to put up with this!
AF
Joan, it’ll stop. But remember that you’re also dealing with a new diagnosis and change can often be stressful, and stress can bring on depression.
I was right where you are now a few days ago. I’m still depressed but feeling less and insane.
I wish you all the best.
AF
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Thank you “AF” for responding to my post. My doctor’s office just called and wants me to reduce from 5mg to 2.5mg tomorrow.
I guess that a good thing. I just need this strange feeling in my head to go away so I can focus on my disease with a clear mind. Thanks again!
Jamie K.
Dix Hills NY
One month ago my immunologist wanted me on 60 msg of Prednizone for 4 days only. I am always reluctant because whenever I do a round of that drug knowing from the past, it would lower my immune system and I would get something else. I have a rare neuromuscular connective tissue disease so I am on 2 immunosuppressants. ANYWAY, the very next day my scalp was CRAZY CRAZY ITCHY SO I JUMPED IN THE SHOWER INSTEAD OF SCRATCHING AND AS I’M WASHING MY HAIR,……MY BEAUTIFUL THICK THICK HAIR IS COMING OUT IN CLUMPS!!!!! I filled 3 big cups of hair that day. I already took the second dose before I showered. It’s the 4th week, and nd I’m still losing hair but it slowed up. The Specialist said it will grow back, but no definitive answer.
IS IT POSSIBLE?….. I am always the one to be the first to report a side effect not listed like……AMBIEN…… So what do you think?…
Victoria
Australia
I agree Jerome, I have been taking this drug on and off my whole life. Just recently have been so ill that I have been on 50mg a day for 3 weeks including hydrocortisone for 5 days, if it wasn’t available for me to take I would be pretty sick or dead. Yup the side effects suck BUT for a lot of people the alternative is much worse, and I must say I am currently enjoying the fact that I can breathe. If your Dr. is considering or has put you on this drug they have for a reason, most avoid even mentioning the name unless they think that there are no other options.
Gordon
calgary alta
I was given the wrong dosage for a recurring iritis. 20 times. Due to severe blindness caused by iritis I was unable to see. I did not know there was a 50 mg pill. My iritis is so severe that all past doctors had to let me determine administration of dosage as if I did not alter an increase of dosage, as. per symptoms, I rapidly lost ground to the iritis. End result I can,lose vision for six months. due to the severity of this episode and the prescription error I self administered 500-700mgs daily for five days until complete body paralysis stopped me. then the medical and legal system swept it under the rug. It has taken 14 years for my brain to return. I don’t have to explain all I have been thro, times known effects x1000.
Chris
Phoenix, Arizona
Prednisone had a real and almost immediate benefit for me. Plagued with a painful and itchy psoriasis, prednisone alleviated the itching and there was a diminishment in the lesions within about a week. Concurrently, I had a bronchitis which was restricting my breathing and making me wheeze. This too eased and cleared up with use of the steroid. Opposite of nervousness described in the side effects, an anxiety due to the breathing problem cleared up with taking the drug. My doctor seems leery and afraid of prescribing the drug but my experience was better with no undesirable side effect.
Becky
Orlando, FL
Like Chris, above, I had a very bad outbreak of plaque psoriasis occur and then it spread rapidly on my arms, elbows, hands, fingers, scalp, ears and face. I also have another type of painful psoriasis, called “inverse psoriasis”, break-out and spread under the folds of my breasts and stomach. The inverse psoriasis became so raw and painful that I was bed-ridden for a week until I could get an appointment to see my dermatologist because it’s easy for me to contract a MRSA (a very bad staph infection) from the inverse psoriasis if the skin continues to become more inflamed and infected. I was hospitalized for 8 days in 2010 from getting an MRSA from infected psoriatic lesions, and I didn’t want to have that happen again.
In this last outbreak of plaque and inverse psoriasis, my skin was very itchy and the chills I was experiencing from the skin lesions became increasingly worse, so my dermatologist had no other alternative but to put me on a strong dose of prednisone for a week along with prescribing a pound of a medicated skin cream for the infected psoriatic lesions. I’m on day 4 of the prednisone, and both the plaque and the inverse psoriasis are clearing up. The prednisone has been a life-saver for me in clearing my infected lesions.
I’ve only been averaging two to three hours of sleep a day for the past three days along with feeling nervous and very energetic during my waking hours. I cannot sleep at night but have been able to calm myself down to get a few hours of sleep from 11:00 am to 1:00 – 2:00 pm. My teeth feel numb along with having the extreme energy and nervous moods that are strong during most times of the day and night. The side-effects are bad and uncomfortable, but I realize that I have to experience these to get the relief I need.
Rosemary
Virginia
I had eye surgery two months ago. I been using Prednisolone Acetate 1.0% drops since then. I’ve been feeling depressed every morning which makes it very difficult for me to start my day. When checking potential side effects of the drops depression is listed as rare. It was not until checking this site that I’m convinced my sadness is attributed to the drops. This is a high price to pay for an anti-inflammatory drop.
Ruben
California
I am having an MRI with Gadolinium contrast tomorrow. I had a very slight allergic reaction to the contrast during my last MRI, ie., itchy face, tingling lips. I have been prescribed 50 mg Prednisone at 13, 7, and 1 hour(s) prior to the MRI. Also, 50 mg Benadryl 1 hour prior.
I think this is a CYA move on the doctor’s part, and not in my best interest. There was no information given to me regarding side effects, nor any mention of tapering. Unless someone comments here with strong information as to why this protocol is absolutely necessary, I will choose not to take the Prednisone, and only take the Benedryl.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Joe Graedon,
I appreciate you creating this support site for all of us that have been prescribed prednisone. It’s been 4 months I’ve been on prednisone ranging from 80mg in January 2015 to date I am at 15. I have been dealing with mental and physical effects through the entire time. SO MUCH ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION!!! Can’t keep a positive thought in my head before the anxiety comes creeping back in. Do you have any advice you could offer? Family and friends don’t understand and why should expect them to if they have never experienced the “devil’s drug. Any advice you could give would be appreciated. Thank!
Joan L.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
I JUST WANT TO BE ABLE TO LAUGH AGAIN LIKE BEFORE!!! I have been in prednisone for nearly 4 months now and it’s really taken a toll on my mental well being and physical well being and I don’t know how to get back!!! Started on 80mg the end of January for an newly diagnosed auto-immune disease affecting my kidneys. My doctor tapered a little drastically from 80 to 60 the first month and then I ended up in the hospital for a month with various conditions, i.e., steroid induced diabetes and then a few days on the psyc floor and then on another floor for dehydration. Don’t really remember getting down to 30mg but I was sent to a rehab because I had trouble walking and although at the time I was depressed and anxious I do remember them giving me 30mg. Home from the rehab middle of April and over the last few weeks have tapered from 30 to 25 then 20 and now I am at 15mg. Just wish I could get past this stupor- feeling/depression and anxiety!!
PLEASE HELP, can anyone give me some suggestions on how you handled this and got through it? THANK YOU for any feedback!
Jamie K.
Dix Hills NY
Hi Joan, Don’t give up now, years back when I was first sick, I lived on that drug for 2 years, starting from 160 mg down to 80 for a year to 40 mg from 8 months down. When I got down to 20, that’s when I felt like you to. It’s withdrawal and part of this process. I promise it will eventually go away.
Until it does, don’t fight the anxiety,… it’s uncomfortable but it won’t kill you. I sort out a good therapist who helped me deal with it! Most anxiety attacks are unrealistic thoughts. Mine was so bad, I couldn’t watch TV.
Mindless reading helps no force yourself to do things. If u need a mild medication for it, it’s ok, but that’s another story!! Take care, write if u need!
Give it time! you’ll be ok!!
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Jaime K-
Thank you for responding to my post! I had posted a few times out of desperation for someone to answer. I get so scared this is never going to go away and I feel just like I am going to lose it or die. It is a horrible feeling. Since my post my doctor had me decrease to 10 mg last Tuesday (4 days ago) and wanted me to go to 5mg today but I was scared that was too fast, although I do trust my kidney doctor, he keeps insisting my depression/anxiety is not from the prednisone. He says I should talk to my psychatrist to change my anti-depressant.
I was so “normal” together and positive before this prednisone last January and now all I do is cry and feel crazy! Are you still on prednisone? If not, how long did it take you to feel somewhat better? I just want to be able to take care of and have fun with my 13 yr. old daughter again. It is so hard not to feel the ANXIETY!! every time I try to keep a good thought the anxiety just comes creeping back in! Again, that you for taking your time to respond to my post. Hope you are doing well now!
Joan
Renee
GA
Hi Joan ,
I was diagnosed with Giant cell arteritis, and Polymyalgia Rheumatica 5 months ago, and started out on 60 MG of prednisone daily. Since then my whole life has turned upside down. There seems to be problems tapering me down and I have been as low as 10 MG daily but the pain comes back and I have yo yoed back and forth on the dosage . I have had blood clots in my leg, which necessitated a blood thinner which caused, a bleeding ulcer , which led to a low hemoglobin count and needed 2 blood transfusions.
Yesterday I just went down to 30 MG but I am having all over body pain and extreme dizziness. My face and neck are all lumpy and swollen. I have been told I may be on this drug the rest of my life as they have nothing else to treat my problem with. I was a healthy , active ,elderly lady living alone until I was hit with these 2 diseases I had never heard of. Now my life is a disaster and I am essentially a shut in with no family. Thank God for good friends who have helped me.
Like you, I wonder if I will ever feel normal again. Indeed , I don’t remember what its like to feel normal. I get very scared being all alone. There seems to be no place for people like us to turn. Good luck and I pray you feel better.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
Renee….so sorry to hear of your newly diagnosed disease(s). It is very scary and I know exactly what you mean when you say you don’t know what it feels like to “feel normal”. I feel the same way. Trying to stay positive the best I can and believe the others on this site that said I will be ok.
I will be thinking about you. Please write back to let me know how your getting along.
Prayers to you as well!
Anne
I finally found a website that explains my reaction to Prednisone! I had a skin condition, and the doctor prescribed 40mg once a day. After4 days with no effect, I stopped, because that’s what the doctor had told me to if it didn’t work. I thought I was going ballistic! I had all sorts of anxiety, and it felt like something was rushing through my nerve system in waves. The second day going off, my husband begged me to take 20 mg due to the abstinence symptoms. It really helped. I took 20 mg for two days, then 10 mg for another two days, and then quit. I still feel three days afterwards that my body is going on high energy and wearing me out. Yes, I did have suicidal thoughts, too. This is the most nerve-wrecking experience I had! I want to call my doctor and beat him over the head, but I am afraid I am not able to express myself the right way. I am not even sure he will believe me…
Hope
Atlanta, GA
I, too, wished I had known how this drug – which was prescribed to me for a sinus infection – would affect me. Unfortunately, I had just began a wonderful cruise vacation and had a sudden onset of shakiness, sweating and dizziness, accompanied by extreme anxiety and uncontrollable suicidal ideations. They took me by wheelchair to the ship’s doctor, who had no idea what was wrong with me. It was the scariest couple of hours of my life, and had there been a hospital or psychiatric facility nearby, I would have been admitted for fear I was going insane. Instead I had a few Xanax with me, given to me by my doctor in case of a panic attack during flying, and the ship’s doctor had me put a tablet under my tongue. Gratefully, the absolute terror subsided within an hour and I was able to rest that day and enjoy the remaining week of my cruise without incident. This is a very dangerous drug, and I am shocked that it is so freely prescribed.
Jerome
Florida
All your posts on prednisone are negative. Your scaring people off who can benefit from this drug. Prednisone has been a wonder drug for many, many more people than have suffered side effects. Talk more about the good things that prednisone can accomplish.
Chris
Agree, Jerome. Even my doctor is leery of this drug that has been so very beneficial to me including being able to rest well at night due to ease of breathing. I experienced no problems from taking this steroid. Unexpected side effects were beneficial.
AF
Jerome, those ppl should rely on their experience. I’m thankful I found this site because I feel normal among those who share similar experiences.
AF
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
AF…..you are so right! Everyone that takes Prednisone have different reactions. I wish I did not have the horrible mental and physical side effects but I did. Hope you feel better soon!
Joan
Katherine
Australia
The majority of side effects from prednisone posted on this forum sound mostly to do with sleep deprivation. Confusion, dizziness, apathy, depression, etc is how I feel when I don’t get enough sleep without taking prednisone. I’ve just been prescribed 25mg of it per day for 5 days before IVF treatment, to avoid rejection I suppose. A local guy who has researched human microbiology to cure an illness his son had, successfully, told me one day that the reason people can’t sleep is because they have too much cortisol in their system at night and it peaks in the biological clocks of everybody at about 3 am. So, I can imagine that with extra corticosteroids via medications in the system the body is completely out of whack when it comes to sleepiness. Then you get the mental symptoms of sleep deprivation.
Dan
michigam
I was given prednisone 20mg/2x daily by the ER. I had an enlarged uvula from bactrim for a sinus infection. They did not taper my 1week dose. I experienced many mental problems, I puked for two days after, Ive lost tenlbs, my left eye still twitches after 2 months
didn
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
When will this nightmare end??!!!! Started on 80mg prednisone the end of January. My mental changes did not start until 2 weeks into. Like some of the others on this topic have related the same. Went to bed one night, woke in the morning and felt as if i was someone else. Anxiety and depression had set in and has stayed with me during the few months since I started. My kidney had me go from 80mg to 60mg when the side effects started. I then spent almost a month in the hospital for a high sugar count so now I have diabetes (thank you, prednisone), a few days or so in the psych unit and then I went back for dehydration. From there I went to a rehab because I could not walk without assistance. Recently started walking without help but I still feel unsteady. Anyway I don’t remember when i went to 40mg to 30mg. Maybe I went from 60mg to 30mg is the last I remember. I don’t really much about my hospital stay, I was kind of out of it. Had a cat scan done I was told and still do not remember to this day. Apparently it was in March because that was the month I was in the hospital. I had an MRI done the end of March and both the CT scan and MRI showed no abnormalities of my brain…but it sure feels like it to me. My kindey took me down to 25mg a couple weeks ago when I asked him if I could go lower and 7 days later down to 20mg and in 2 more days will drop down to 15mg. I know I do feel some changes since tapering but the mental changes not. When will I start to see some changes in my anxiety and depression, lack of concentration, confusion and memory loss which only gives me more anxiety when I can’t remember something. Feel like I’m in a fog all day. Can someone please reply as to how your side effects were during, when tapering and when you were finished. I know everyone is different but I just need to hear something positive after prednisone.
Karyn
Glasgow
I have been on high 80 mg for 11 years of prednisone been try to reduce my dose for a year as there no longer working for me. OMG the pain the first few weeks I could suffer but now excruciating a can’t stand up back pain am going to physio and sending me for X-rays and scans but living with the pain is unreal.
JLo
Hamilton, NJ
have been taking prednisone since the end of January, high doses…80mg, down to 60 a month later and ended upon the hospital due to mental side effects. don’t remember much of when I was in the hospital, even had a cat scan and don’t remember having it. I have depression and anxiety and feel like my brain is half alive. can do some things like load and unload the dishwasher. make my bed, wash/dry/fold my clothes, can cook small things like French toast and eggs, grilled cheese but when it comes to some other things can not process how to do it. lots of memory problems and I had an exceptional memory before starting on the prednisone. my doctor had me taper from 30 which I had been taking for a while down to 25mg last week and diwn to 20mg last Thursday. yesterday at my appointment he said to drop another 5mg. I love and trust my doctor but is that too quick? anyway I feel HORRIBLE!! !!! I know withdrawal is different for everyone but I am looking for some advice on when I will feel better because all I feel now is numb but crying all the time about anything at at all. no interest in TV. don’t have any interest in looking at my design magazines, which before taking the prednisone I looked at constantly, over and over again. have no laughed in months and don’t feel love for anyone or anything. advice please and thank you!
Catalina
Colombia
Hi, my dad went on a treatment for 5 days of a very high dose of prednisone and after the treatment he has been very sensitive crying a lot, he lost interest in everything. He doesn’t want to read, go out or do anything at all.
I was wanted to know if you finally recover from all your symptoms? Are you the same as before of the prednisone?
Please help me I am very worried.
Joan
Hamilton, NJ
I, Catalina are tapering now. Starting in January do an auto-immune kidney disease. Started at 80mg and tapered down about a month when all the mental side effects started. Was in the hospital on 3 different floors the month and really don’t remember much of that time. Apparently I had a CT scan done and don’t even remember having it. I have now tapered to 25mg two weeks ago and a week later tapered to 20mg and will be tapering to 15mg in another 2 days. I have experienced bad side effects for the last 3 months. I feel confused, have anxiety and depression and are crying all the time too. I hope your dad is feeling better soon. Who knew Prednisone could make you feel this way….HORRIBLE just HORRIBLE!!
Joan
Trenton, NJ
started on high dose 80mg and a chemo treatment for a recently diagnosed kidney auto immune disease back the end of January. after taking the prednisone for 2 weeks that’s when my mental state went “crazy” ended up in the hospital treated for diabetes which I did not even know about, then I spent about, I believe in the psych unit, then about a week or so for dehydration. I was so out of it I had a cat scan done and don’t even remember having it. yes I seemed to be out if it for sure. I have recently, per doctor down from 30 mg to 25mg last week for a week and now had me go to 20mg. and keep reducing by 5mg every 5 days. I am very happy with my doctor and trust his advice but do you think it’s too quick. the reason for the reduction is because of the HORRIBLE side effect I have been having for the last few months, teeth are very sensitive, trouble walking, dizziness, confusion, depression, anxiety, a strange funny feeling in my head kind of like I am just existing and not living. sometimes I feel like I am going to just faint, pass out or just die. i’m afraid to go to bed for fear I will not wake up in the morning. I then just spend the day with side effects again. Have no interest in anything, hard to even watch a show on television or read. I HATE THIS FEELING!!!! looking for someone can tell me what my future holds as many of you on this board have had similar side effects. Thank you!
Joan
Trenton, NJ
started on high dose 80mg and a chemo treatment for a recently diagnosed kidney auto immune disease back the end of January. after taking the prednisone for 2 weeks that’s when my mental state went “crazy” ended up in the hospital treated for diabetes which I did not even know about, then I spent about, I believe in the psych unit, then about a week or so for dehydration. I was so out of it I had a cat scan done and don’t even remember having it. yes I seemed to be out if it for sure. I have recently, per doctor down from 30 mg to 25mg last week for a week and now had me go to 20mg. and keep reducing by 5mg every 5 days. I am very happy with my doctor and trust his advice but do you think it’s too quick. the reason for the reduction is because of the HORRIBLE side effect I have been having for the last few months, teeth are very sensitive, trouble walking, dizziness, confusion, depression, anxiety, a strange funny feeling in my head kind of like I am just existing and not living. sometimes I feel like I am going to just faint, pass out or just die. i’m afraid to go to bed for fear I will not wake up in the morning. I then just spend the day with side effects again. Have no interest in anything, hard to even watch a show on television or read. I HATE THIS FEELING!!!! looking for someone can tell me what my future holds as many of you on this board have had similar side effects. Thank you!
kathy
n.s. w australia
Hi, my 11 year old has been on 15 mg of prednisone daily for around 20 months at first I did do a little research as I did not want to put her on this medication but the Dr said it was necessary to keep her walking longer.
I’m still worried about the side effects as she has difficulty explaining how she feels, the first year she put on lot of weight and and was having trouble sleeping and was anxious most of the time. Last time we visited the children’s hospital I asked to lower the dosage we lowered it to 12 1/2 mg daily there has been no more weight gain she is still walking the same is sleeping better so next time we visit the Dr I was thinking about another drug that does the same thing without the side effects. I’m hoping she does not react the same as some of the people who were weaned off prednisone as I understand there have been young men with the same illness as my daughter DMD who were on prednisone which from what I read have gone to hospital with DM.D and broken bones, was not given the right dosage of prednisone which contributed to their deaths.
Scott
Detroit
I am currently on prednisone for severe psoriasis.
I can tell you that it DOES work. I’m on my 2nd day of taking it after being off it for a month, and in a day my skin has gone from feeling like it was wrapped in sandpaper to feeling like I’m 16 again. The rashes have improved considerably. My skin used to burn frequently after a shower or in bed but not anymore.
When you first take prednisone you feel calm and relaxed, but it is the withdraw from it I believe that causes side effects like anxiety and shakiness. To counter this, my dermatologist gave me Hydroxyzine tablets which are a sedative and anti-itch medication.
Overall my experience with prednisone has been positive, aside from a little weight gain from eating. Just make sure to follow the prescription directions carefully.
CJ
If you have to take another drug to off set the symptoms from the prednisone then that’s a problem. Prednisone is no good. Period.
rantbot
Boston
It’s been great for me. Irreplaceable. I’ve been taking it for decades. It controls my autoimmune condition when nothing else will. On a high dosage (40mg/day or more) I may get interesting mental effects, but nothing too serious; and sometimes I notice no weird effects at all. I tend to eat too much but it’s controllable; I even managed to lose fifty pounds while taking it.
Ruben
California
I had a mild allergic reaction to the contrast dye: Gadolinium during an MRI. I need another MRI and the doctors want to pre-medicate me with three doses of 50 mg Prednisone. Would I have to taper that? Can the radiologist determine if I didn’t take the Prednisone? I don’t want to take it if I don’t absolutely have to. I have two weeks to figure this out.
rebecca
CT
I am and a MRI technologist. Generally the first reaction to gadolinium is the mildest. The fear is with each exposure the reaction can get worse. See if your doctor can prescribe some form of benadryl if the prednisone makes you uncomfortable but I wouldn’t mess around with allergic reactions. Good luck!
Rosie
London
I suffered an allergic reaction while abroad and ended up in A&E near enough as soon as I got back from the airport. The hospital gave me antihistamines and 30mg of steroids to take for four days. I know people on here have been on much stronger doses and longer amounts of time but the side effects have been dreadful. I’ve been completely useless for over a week, still barely able to leave my bed. Im still suffering from dizziness, headaches, feeling like the world is spinning, tiredness, confusion, anxiety and feeling emotional five days after stopping the tablets. It’s hard to explain exactly how I feel but the word vacant comes to mind, like when people talk to me I find it so difficult to focus on what they are saying, I almost feel stupid and vulnerable as I’m not aware of my surroundings. The doctors say it’s all normal side effects but it’s left me feeling lazy and pathetic, I can’t even use a computer for longer than a few minutes without my head and eyes feeling a lot of pain. I haven’t been able to go to work and the one time I tried to go into uni I was a mess and had to come home. I can’t wait to finally wake up and feel better as its so horrible feeling like you can’t do anything and falling behind on important uni work is just stressing me out even more.
Connie
USA
It’s sad to say, but I’m glad to be reading about the side effects people have expressed, because my husband is going through the VERY exact thing. Sad everyone has to experience this, but glad to know he’s not the only one. He’s in his 70’s. He’s been on a fairly high dose of steroids for 6 weeks due to a severe incidence of auto-immune disease. They have started tapering him off, and he’s got all the symptoms people describe: so much confusion, crying, severe short term memory issues, not able to concentrate when people are telling him things, feeling shaky, extreme fatigue, hurting all over. He’s been so bad we’ve been to the ER 3 times. They tell us it’s the steroids and it will just take some time. Good Lord, why didn’t anyone tell us about these possible effects ahead of time?!?!? At least we wouldn’t have been scared out of our wits. He’s so afraid he’s going crazy. I’m reassuring him and I think sharing what some of you have posted will be helpful. I think the effects must be intensified the older you get. I’ve been doing lots of research on steroids and found several sites that say 6% of people will have these negative effects. WHY aren’t doctors warning us about this? Hang in there folks!
cherie
newzealand
I have been put on 2.5.mg of prednisone one at night and 2 200mg plaquenil a day for arthritis pain. I have been on it for just a little over a week. I find I have extreme tiredness and fatigue, after eating I go to sleep. The pain has improved,but this morning I feel so unwell. Very tired and dizzy and nausea, although hungry I don’t want to eat. I feel so lethargic and even though I slept well, just want to go back to bed and stay there. I already have ringing in my ears but now have a pulsing type of sound. When i started the medications about 9days ago, i had head aches for about a week. I am going to stop these two medications and see if there is an improvement, I’m feeling like I can’t function. Please e-mail me if you have had similar reactions.
Susan
Louisiana
I had a 5 day round of prednisone 3 x daily. The problems started the last day of treatment. I have heightened senses. My whole body is almost numb to the touch. I can not feel the inside of my mouth. I know this all sounds crazy but it is happening. I am nervous and have the shakes. I was not tapered off the medication just took stopped. It was very short term. Its been 3 days since my last dose and I am not any better. How long will this go on? I have gained 7 pounds also.
dave
michigan
I have been on predisone for approx. 14 yrs. at different doses ranging from 10 mg to 40mg. per day, for rheumatoid arthritis. I hurt so bad when I started them, it was the only thing that helped, and the only drug my insurance would pay for, other than plaquinil which didn’t help. The Drs. have tried to taper me down, but everytime I get down to 10 mg, I’m almost paralyzed by the pain, and at 5 mg I’m in ER, because my body wants to quit functioning. I too am not the same easy going guy I used to be. I’m fine as long as nobody gives me any crap. I have CRS disease real bad(forgetful). Confusion and dizzines, and anger have become a regular daily occurance. I am now taking 17.5 mg per day, after being cut back to 15 from 20, and still can barely stand the pain. I am sick and queasy feeling all day everyday. I hate narcotics, they may help the pain, but otherwise make me feel even worse. I take nausea meds, that don’t always help. I now also have Osteoperosis from Prednisone. I also have had cataracs removed, supposedly caused by the prednisone. I am borderline diabetic, again prednisone related. I have recieved Orencia injections now for almost 4 mos. and methotrexate for 6 mos, and I’m still a basket case. Nobody Warned me back then, or I would not have ever started with prednisone.
Dawn
Arizona
Diagnosed with Temporal Arteritis in Jan. 2015 and started on 40mg of Prednisone. Slowly began tapering down to 20mg in March, but had a flare up and increased to 25mg. Began a taper again, this time slower, reducing by 2.5mg every 2 weeks. Recently got down to 20mg and all hell broke loose. A kidney infection, shingles and a temporal arteritis flare up, all in the same week. Doctor told me to increase dose to 22.5mg, where I currently am now as I recover from the kidney infection and shingles. The temporal arteritis has calmed down, but I wonder if and when I will be able to get below 22.5mg. So depressing as I want to get off this drug before I have more side effects or illnesses attack my body!
melissa
Rochester hills mi
Depends on the situation. Lucky that I have good doctor because I been on prednisone past four months but my doctors finally slowly tapering me off. There doing it slowly my each month till gets down to 10 then there taper it off from there. Otherwise glad I’m on it. It caused my rare anemia to go away where I don’t need blood transfusions anymore. I have only one kidney and helped that to get back to normal function where I was able to get off of dialysis. Ya side effects suck. But I’m alive and able to work.
Moni
Seattle
Went to emergency in anaphylactic shock; I thought I had bronchitis but it all happened horribly over a few mere hours. Doctor gave me drug but I am terrified to take it though I am not getting better…still feel like I have bad bronchitis though I’ m told it is an allergen. Ugh…do I dance with the devil?
Mike
East Greenwich, RI
I underwent 6 rounds of “R Chop” chemotherapy 18 months ago to treat Stage 1 non-Hodgkins large B-Cell lymphoma. The infusions took place on the first Monday of the month throughout the summer of 2013.
Following the infusions on Monday, I had to take 130 mg of Prednisone (that’s the “P” in R Chop) every morning Tuesday through Friday. That was 6-1/2, 20 mg tablets, daily for 4 days. I did this for 6 months.
My oncologist told a story about the day she took 80 mg for some allergy & her staff sent her home at 11:00 AM due to her ornery demeanor. So I’ve been looking for some anecdotal or clinical research on the long term effects of prednisone. If anyone can point me in the right direction it would be appreciated. Unfortunately, I stopped taking the drug immediately after my last week of therapy. Needless to say, my personal & professional relationships have been strained as I struggle to understand what has happened to my demeanor. I’ve become someone I don’t recognize, but the cancer is gone. What a price to pay.
Tom
Grosse Pointe, MI
I’m happy to have found this post. No one told me about withdrawl from Prednisone, I could strangle my Doctor. Everyone talks about their symptoms from having taken the steroid for 10 days or what I consider short-term, I’ve been on it for over three years but discontinued use 2 months ago. I feel my pain is worsening daily instead of fading, I was told to taper and did so over a three week period lessening the dose every couple of days, apparently that was to quick because every muscle & every joint in my body is killing me, from a sitting position I cannot stand up without help. I am now trying to get in touch with my Doctor for advise. But I have found some relief after reading this post, Thank you.
Julie E
New York
I knew I didn’t trust this drug. Yesterday my dr rx’d a 9 day taper…60, 40,20 for dbl pnuemonia. I’m 51 , have always been in good health. Reading up on the side effects and the stories confirms my suspicions. I, too, was not informed of any of this. I’m going to take ibuprofen instead. It’s a ” nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory” plus a pain relieving fever reducer! Personally, I’m not allergic to it and am familiar with it. I’m sorry everyone’s experienced such horrible side effects, but, your input has been extremely valuable to me. Thank you!
Gail
Nova Scotia
Being on prednisone for years, it attacked the bones in my mouth. I had two bridges in my upper mouth (had to have them due to a head on collision) and they fell out and the doctor indicated it was a side effect from the prednisone. Does anyone know if there is any financial assistance out there to help with this issue. I can’t afford to replace the bridges myself and feel very vulnerable as the absence of the bridges is so noticable. Thank you for any information you can provide.
bob
ca.
I developed a rash from trimming a bush. My doctor prescribed prednisone ( 20 mgs a day for 5 days) I’m hearing all these horror stories. Should I go to another Doctor.
Rosemary Peppercorn
U.S.
At noon, I received prescription from doctor for Prednisone for very bad poison ivy. It is almost 5 am the next day, and I haven’t slept.
Joe
Bethlehem, GA
I considered myself in excellent health all my life, until about 15 years ago I developed Dyshidrotic Eczema. My “Primary Care” didn’t know what it was. Finally in an effort to ‘clear it up’ he put me on Prednisone. 20mg twice a day, with NO word of warning. When the eczema abated, I quit taking the drug. The eczema flared back up. A call to the doctor refilled the prescription. Cleared the eczema up. Quit taking the drug… Eczema came back. Call to the doctor – prescription refilled. This went on for 5 Months, when a dermatologist did a biopsy and told me what I had !! When I told him of my Prednisone regime, he had a fit and told me all the things my doctor and pharmacist had failed to mention. Among other things, my Adrenal glands had completely shut down. It took another eleven months to completely wheene me off the drug. All I can say is Be Careful !! They call it “Practicing Medicine” for a reason !!
Danny
Australia
Hi Joe
What was the condition you were diagnosed with in the end? I ask because my undiagnosed symptoms are similar and highly pred responsive.
Danny
MeLissa
Olympia, WA
Just found out I have a very rare condition and they are not entirely sure how to treat it, it is incurable, but their first thought is Prednisone. I just feel like I have the flu for no reason, about 2 days twice a month. I am no thinking I might just live with that rather than take prednisone. My doctor told me I could potentially gain a lot of weight in only a month on prednisone. Have you had a lot of weight gain? How easy is it to lose once you are off the prednisone?
Melissa
Atlanta, GA
Hi Melissa,
My husband has a rare blood disease and has to use prednisone to treat it when it gets out of control. He says the urge to eat is ridiculously strong and it takes a lot of self control but he was able to get through this round of prednisone with only gaining 10lbs. He’s been on it for 5 months now and is currently tapering off. I try to make “clean” food, low in sodium – it takes a lot of planning but it’s better than him gaining weight and feeling bad because of that on top of all of the other mental things that go on with this drug. Everyone is different, but just thought I’d let you know it is possible to not gain – it’s just A LOT of self-control. It’s not fun for him or for me when he is on it – but it saves his life. If his condition was not life threatening I know he would not take this medication.
Diana
Edmonton
I was diagnosed with sarcodoisis on my lung and now I must take 6 prednizones every day for 1 month then 5 prednizones for next month then 4 prednizone for last month , My Dr. says we have to be very aggressive with this disease I have noticed I don’t have to much patience with people to which I am very quiet person usually , I’m wondering if anyone knows how I can deal with this … I know I pray for patience a lot lol
Robert
Since age 15 I have been prescribed prednisone and antibiotics on average about 5 times a year for asthma till about age 33. I just kept getting bronchitis or pneumonia. At age 27 I had meningitis strep throat & pneumonia back to back to back. I lost about 40 pounds in three weeks felt totally defeated. Started looking into these drugs and found they cause weekend immune system.
I started take care of my own health. Feel much better still have asthma rarely have to take any meds. But now at age 47 started having swelling issues I believe I have acquired angioedema and believe its a side effect of prolonged use of antibiotics and prednisone all those years. Trying to strengthen my immune system.
The medical industry only seems to know surgery or drugs to treat symptoms with no cures $$$$$$ money to be made.
Laura
Albuquerque,NM
I’ve been on prednisone for about 2 wks now. Was on 125mg in my neb treatments, then on 20mg for 5 days, then 10mg for 5 days & now 5mg. How long does it take for withdrawal symptoms to disappear & when will my adrenal glands return to normal after I stop taking drug.
Joe
Bethlehem, GA
It’s a slow process, Laura. But it sounds like you’re being monitored and properly tapered off. I was on 20mg twice a day with no guidance for five months before I even heard a word or knew what was happening to me. It took them another 11 months to get me completely off the medication and my adrenal glands functioning on their own again.
Debra
United States
I suffer from a rare autoimmune disorder called Behcets Disease that causes vasculitis. As a result, I am often given a prednisone taper to combat flares. I usually wait until the flare is unbearable before asking for it because I hate the side effects so much.
Even without taking steroids, I have a lot of edema and the prednisone just makes it worse. I get a headache the first few days I start on it and can’t sleep. I started a 7 day taper yesterday that started at 60mg for the first 2 days, 40mg for 2 days and then 20mg for 3 days. I’ve had a massive headache since yesterday afternoon and didn’t sleep for squat last night. Honestly, I don’t know which is worse, the inflammation or the side effects of the prednisone!
Debra
Chewelah, WA
Another side effect I’ve noticed, especially recently, is heat intolerance. My disease has progressed to where I must take a high dose (20mg) of prednisone daily. I’ve always been sensitive to heat but now it’s 100x worse. I get overheated just walking across the hall to the bathroom! If my bedroom is above 64F and I don’t have my fan blowing on me at all times, I’m in trouble! I had to buy a personal fan that that hangs around my neck and blows air up at my face for when I must be out of the hose.
Frank
United States
Debra,
(20mg) of prednisone daily is by no means considered a high dose. There are 50mg tablets available.
I just completed 40mg a day for 5 days, then 20 for five days. Without no noticeable side effects.
Everyone’s results may vary, but 20mg for me was the lowest dose I took for ending the treatment.
VSH
Evans Georgia
I have always been very lucky with my health. NEVER sick much. I got the Flu in January 2015. I do not have insurance so I just figured I’d wait it out. It is now 04/08/2015 and i have been to the ER four times. I now have severe chronic bronchitis. I have to use an inhaler and do breathing treatments. It has scared me to death. Last ER visit I was prescribed prednisone 40mg for 7 days and a Z pac. After only one day my feet and ankles are so swollen the skin looks like it may split. My face is swollen and I’m dizzy. Normal conversation is difficult. I can’t concentrate.
Finding this website and hearing the stories of others has helped me realize just how serious this is and just how much I was not told. Thank you for simple information I needed to know.
Joe
Bethlehem, GA
Prednisone is a wonder drug for sure. But many of our prescribers know little more about it than we (patients) do… Do not let a question go unasked – or answered !! Good luck with your recovery.
Joy
Houston,TX
Mmmmmm…Glad I found this site. Have pneumonia. Prednisone definitely helped my breathing and severe cough but the shaking, headache and insomnia aren’t helping me get back to work. Doctors should definitely have warned us. Made it to work 4 hours today but I am so wired my co-workers wanted to know what was wrong with me. Very embarrassing in front of my staff. One girl even asked me if I was in steroids, so guess these are typical side effects. Going back to Dr tomorrow, I have to get back to that high pressure job. Won’t make it like this!! Ugh… Good luck all!
Matthew
Houston
I had what I thought were sinus headaches (migraines) that were debilitating never lasting more than a day. But one day I woke up and the pain never stopped. Doctor put me on prednisone high dose for what he thought was a sinus infection. I could breath an actually smell things for the first time in three years. My dry cracked bleeding fingers healed and my pain was diminished. And natural body oils returned, Once I was off the prednisone my pain came right back in a day level ten head pain. So now I take 10 mg every 10-12 hours. At this dose I still feel level 1-2 pain from my sinuses, but it keeps the pain managed. I have had every scan known to man. CTA, MRI, MRA… Nothing found. I think I have a type of vasculitus. I am thinking Wegeners. Having the doc test now. Since this only seems to be controlled by prednisone as I have taken tons of other meds. I have no symptoms other than night sweats when I try and take another med at the same time as the prednisone. The only other side effect is constant hunger! I eat like a bear! My doc gave me all these horror stories about prednisone, but I think the benefits outweigh the negatives. I would rather not be in level 10 pain.
Letoy
IL
If you are on prednisone ask your doctor or endocrinologist to test your adrenal gland before and again if you are on for extended period of time. I asked for mine to be tested and it was -.5 way below normal. Most people don’t realize how many things have steroids in them and that added to the prednisone is bad news for your adrenal gland.
My doctor said he’d never seen anyone with that low of adrenal gland. Of course he hadn’t, because he never tests for it and has been known to push prednisone and steroids regularly no matter what you have. He was going to have me taper over 5 month period. By that time I was already crazy and not sleeping so I went to my endocrinologist and she had me off in 7 weeks. I’m in constant pain now and have osteopenia and will be taking an infusion once a year with the idea that may prevent osteoporosis and rebuild my bone density. I had an old time doctor tell me you should not have more than 3 steroid injections in your lifetime. I would have to believe him as he was very wise buy now can hardly wait for one to stop the back pain.
scorpiongurl
washington
My sister was put to 6omg per day for 4 days.
On the 1st day that she took it she experience nervousness, depressed unable to sleep.
On the 2nd she took it again side effects more intense that she could never stand for it she had panic attack, palpitations more depressed and she can never barely sleep she’s wide awake until 5 am.
On the 3rd she was taper to 40mg per day. But again side effects are more more worst. And then she does want to take no more, so she just stop suddenly. Today is the 5th day she stop to take the prednisone.
Now I think she’s in severe withdrawal. She is having severe depression, sleepless nights, panic/manic attack, body shaking, increased thirst. What should I do to help her? Can she able to be on her self again? Please please help me.
Joe H
Bethlehem, GA
Suddenly stopping (unsupervised) Prednisone is never a good idea. It will eventually leave her system, but not without the side effects you describe… Seems it would be better to decrease the dosage by half every couple of days. My withdrawal was guided by an endocrinologist and over several months my dosage went from 40mg to 20mg to 10mg to 5 mg to 1/4 of a 10mg tablet, and so on… Of course I had been taking Prednisone without guidance for over 5 months at the time.
kim
mesa, az
I was diagnosed with Poleymyalgia,Rheumatoid Arthritis on Feb 14th, 2014 . Was put on 80mg of PREDNISONE 3x a day for 2 weeks. Am now trying to work down from 4mg. I get close to 2mg and start the hurting process all over again. Was told I probably will end up taking it the rest of my life. Am now developing stomache aches. NO FUN!! Wish i had an alternative solution..
lauryn
West Palm Beach, Fl
The doctors have to know how serious these side effects are! It really bothers me that I was not tapered down after my now knowledge of this pill. I went into the ER with an allergic reaction. I’m usually more talkative and am aware about what they are putting in my body but by the time benadryl was inserted I was pretty out of it. They put prednisone in my IV right away followed by 5 days of 40mg doses. They should have tapered me down because what I experienced next following my 5 day doses was the worst feelings I have ever felt! Instant disorientation, room was spinning, felt like my head was about to erupt, pounding headache, shaky, anxiety, chest spasm and insomnia. The first 48 hours were the worst as far as head and spinning but I’m a little over 72 hours in and I’ve slept..maybe 6 hours? It’s 5am and still wide awake. My temples are spasming constantly and panic and anxiety set in every night as I lay in bed. I can only hope this is temporary being as I was out of work all week. But I’m only 27, very active normally and I have no energy to leave my bed. Praying for a miracle. I will do everything I can to warn my loved ones that unless it is absolutely necessary this drug should not be used! Prednisone was the worst experience of my life and I feel it is highly irresponsible as a doctor to not give the option of tapering down due to such severe side effects. To all who have suffered and who continue to I will say a pray for you all as well as me tonight! Be well.
Joe H
Bethlehem, GA
Lauryn, you have a valid point. And because they are doctors, you would assume they know. But my experience (as yours) has taught me that they don’t. I would say that the majority of them prescribe and use Prednisone because it is so good at what it does… They don’t have to ‘figure’ anything out because Prednisone will ‘clear up’ just about anything !! They either have no idea… Or they don’t care. ASK. Then ASK again !!!
Richard
Stevensville
I have had 2 surgeries on my neck and three disks replaced. My surgeon gave me this drug on multiple occasions prior to surgery. It helped some. Post surgery 5 years my neck is acting up again. Pain off the charts, but when I take one 20mg of this pill I am good to go for 18 hours, no side effects. I would rather take this pill for the rest of my life than get cut again. I also have high blood pressure, but other meds put it in check, no high blood pressure to date. No conflict, no mood swings, nothing adverse. Would like to hear a doctor tell me I am crazy, but no doctors are complaining, annual physicals.
Marcia
Boise
I had to be in the hospital, after a viral infection went to my joints and cause so much weakness I couldn’t walk. They thought Steroids would help, they did, but I hate the side affects… they put me on 1000 mg dose of IV Steroids for 3 days, I have taken the oral kind like 40-60 a day, but never got that much steroids, and it really scared me, not just the taking of them, THEY MAKE YOU CRAZY, no sleep irritable, talkative, I am driving my husband crazy too… I now have to be on a fairly long taper because of so much, and the worry that my symptoms will return? What are the side effects of such large doses… I read somewhere they actually stay in your system… so I am not sure I have even started to withdrawal, my last IV of 1000mg was Sunday… this is only Tuesday, now I am taking 40 a day, wish I could just stop. :( … I wouldn’t have taken them, but I couldn’t move I was almost paralyzed in my joints, so I do think they helped me to walk again, but still not fun, wish I could stop sooner, does anyone know the side effects of such high ones, do I really need to taper longer because of it??
Lee ann crowe
okla City okla.
I’ve been on prednisone 90 my. Down now to thirty. But when I started to verbally attack people and all the side effects that everyone has stated I quit. I’ve never been suicidal but honestly I think I could have hurt someone.
Ray Ro
United States
I have been on prednisone for 9 months. I started at 50 mg twice a day and have tapered down to 5 mg daily. I have not seen any of the side effects mentioned.
Ray R
claire k.
United States
Wait till you get off. I just got off of steroids after being on it for 13 months. I went from 40mgs to 2mgs before i got off. Off course I was weaned off slowly. Big deal!!! I have more pain now than ever and blood pressure sky high. Depression! 40 pounds later. Good luck! I call it the devil’s poison pill!!!!
sam
ohio
I have had a history of a-fib. I had an ablation 1 1/2 years ago since then no issues at all.
Then came the prednisone for bronchitis along with z-pak. I started having a-fib, but thought it was due to having 2 cups of coffee a day. Then one evening at 10:30 it started in and when my husband took me to the hospital… Blood pressure was165/105 pulse 134. Had to stay in the ER three hours to get my heart rate under control. Then admitted as a patient to monitor my vitals over night and the next day! Now back on cardiac drugs for a couple of months. Not every patient fits inside the DR’s box of prescriptions. They said the a-fib was prednisone related. If any heart history…question the prescription.
nancy w.
effingham. nh
I’m on 20 MG daily for 14 days. but honestly I hope my dr. Keeps me on them. No side effects and feel good. Copd and 76 yrs. old I have nothing to lose. If it helps I’ll take it.
Rosie
South Carolina
I have taken prednisone in the past and felt crazy going off it and it did not help my symptoms of bronchial asthma, and my partner now has been prescribed it for Polymyalgia. I have researched extensively and now believe that my food allergies played a HUGE part in my disease. My bronchial asthma (breathing issues since a small child) is SO much better since I went on an anti-inflammatory diet – no gluten, no wheat, no sugar, no coffee, and certain supplements. I was skeptical when I started but am now a firm proponent. And I figured what did I have to lose – except my yucky symptoms. I am a believer!!!! And a “Functional Medicine” doctor is the one who helped me. They look at the underlying cause of our disease as opposed to looking at the symptoms. I urge every everyone to give it a shot. Good luck!
Cherie
Decatur IL
I developed asthma after having a child later in life and wonder why or what affects it? I still don’t understand it and HATE prednisone – it makes my panic attacks horrible and takes me months to recoup from just the medicine. I know during a flare it is something we have to do. I would be interested to know more of what you did to help your asthma naturally! For some reason Aleve affects me a lot. And Spring and fall, but I don’t have allergies. Just sinus issues.
Ed
USA
Got a horrible bout of poison ivy, with weeping rash on my chest and legs. Got two rounds of oral methylprednisone, and a shot of it. Rash cleared up, but now my skin in hypersensitive to all sorts of things. Going on four months now of daily fighting total body tingling, itching, and welting. A recent 40mg shot of kenalog helped for about 4-5 days; but, back to square one. Taking 20mg of zyrtec per day, sometimes combined (alternating) with 25-75 mg of benadryl. Hard to sleep as every surface, including mattresses, linens, and bedding make me tingle/itch/break out. Worn out mentally, physically.
Heather
Cleveland
I had histoplasmosis (fungal infection) that “turned” into Sarcoidosis (autoimmune disease).
I was on 40 mg for a month last year before the side effects of the prednisone became too much to deal with, and then spent another month and a half tapering off completely.
I was just put back on steroids, methylprednisone, 20 mg, and I started having horrible heart palpitations/flip flops!, and immense tension in my body that would not let me relax, and a nasty mood to beat.
You would think that there was some advice, other to grin and bear it!
Dee
Missouri
I have Giant Cell Arteritis and have been on Prednisone for several years. When the doctor tapered the Prednisone a couple years ago, I started going blind. Had surgery to remove a tumor. Two days later I was okay from surgery, but either I was toxic from the Prednisone or suffering from adrenal failure. I still can’t tell the difference, cause the symptoms are pretty much the same. Apparently the doctors can’t tell either. One of them lowered the medicine and then other one raised it quite a bit 2 days later claiming some of symptoms are from too much and some from too little. How can that be? I burned my hand and feet a couple weeks ago (nasty blisters) cause I’m losing the ability to differentiate temperature. The doctor completely blew this off probably cause she doesn’t want me to question Prednisone. It would be nice if they were honest instead of telling patients what they think we want to hear. Does Prednisone cause neuropathy? I know it causes lack of sleep. I also can’t eat and am angry and overwhelmed which isn’t helped by no sleep. Gained over 5 pounds in one day yet I ate zero food and only took in 2 glasses of water. Feet are so swollen I can’t get shoes on. Doctor claims this is from tapering Prednisone, but it sounds more like too much Pred. If I knew what I know now when I started this drug, I would have accepted the risk of massive stroke, blindness or heart attack. Now I can’t get off the stuff. Seriously get a 2nd opinion before you ever go on Prednisone. Sometimes you can never go off it without blindness, adrenal failure and even death. They don’t tell you this when you start it cause they want to manipulate you into taking it.
Amber
north carolina
I hurt my lumbar in Krav Maga and had horrific muscle spasms and pain. My orthopedic doctor diagnosed it as muscular and put me on prednisone taper starting with 70mg the first day and decreasing by 10mg everyday. I turned into satan. I could not sleep and I had extreme amount of rage (I termed it roid rage). I hated everyone- most of all myself. I could not stand myself and my anxiety was epic. I had the facial flushing and hot flashes. It is very unfortunate, because it sped up my healing time in leaps. Tomorrow is my last day and I can not wait! I hope I never have to take it again – it did help the original problem though. I will have to be fully sedated if I need to take it in the future!
Dave
Spirit Lake Idaho, USA
I am taking 10 MG. of Prednisone a day for arthritis. I can not get below 2 MG. of this drug because of the pain coming back leaving me unable to walk. I then have to go back up to 10 MG. again and start down over again. I can’t get off of this drug. I am afraid of what it is doing to my immune system. I have been coming down at a rate of I MG> in 5 days until 2 mg. when I hurt so bad & can’t walk so here I go again to 10 MG> It is a dam roll a Koster!!
victoria
Last year, I was given prednisone for breathing problems due to a cold/flu. During that same time, I noticed that my vision in my right eye for seeing distance was doubled and it wasn’t until this year that I discovered this medicine can form cataracts.
Last month I had cataract surgery and was given an antibiotic, prednisolone AC and a night medicine, all eye drops. The antibiotic and prednisolone was causing me headaches, extreme drowsiness all day and pain on the surgery side of my face. My eye doctor didn’t believe me and told me to see my regular MD who suggested my eye doctor change the antibiotics which he didn’t. I had blood and urine checked and everything was ok.
I desperately called the eye doctor one evening after working hours because the symptoms were very bad and he had me stop the antibiotic and the night medicine and only take prednisolone AC 4 times a day for the weekend, and this was torture for me. When I saw him on Monday, he said to only take the prednisolone twice a day for 10 days and then once a day for 10 days. I can struggle through once a day but twice, I’m not sure. Yesterday my face, including my teeth and head hurt and I was drowsy all day long and my stomach wasn’t feeling right either.
I called a pharmacist to see if she had knowledge of these systems and maybe tell me what to do. She said it sounds like my energy level was low since I was always tired and drowsy and she recommended vit. B12 which I took and it didn’t do anything. So, I thought that since it could be that my energy level is low, then I would check my PH level which turned out pretty low, high acidic, so I researched how to keep my body alcholine by changing my diet.
This morning I bought a few stuff and made an alcoline breakfast and a fruit with almond smoothy. So far not much headache or stomach disconfort but still drowsy. I rechecked my ph level and it went from 6.0 to 7.0 but could be better. I don’t know what else to do to get some comfort, so hopefully, changing my diet to a very healthy one will help me, especially when this medicine lowers your immune system. I just started this diet this morning and will let you in a couple of days if its working.
Tammy
California
Prednisone is a serious drug and can have serious side effects. I have been taking it at different times and in different doses for the last 8 years. I have lupus, severe asthma attacks and had a herniated disc. Luckily prednisone makes me feel great but that would be because it reduces the inflammation that makes my life so miserable. The only bad side effect I have is when I taper down. I take the medication to be able to breathe or able to get out of bed due to lupus flares. It can be a great drug for serious illnesses. It is definitely not a drug to be taken lightly. I am lucky that I do not have bad side effects and have weighed the long term effects with quality of life. I would not have a life if not for steroids so as with all medication you have to weigh the risks to the benefits. Even Tylenol can be deadly.
Debbie
TN
My doctor prescribed 2 of the 20mg tabs for 3 days then 1 a day for 3 days to treat bronchitis. I took for the first 2 days and wasn’t having much relief so I asked the Dr to call in an inhaler in hopes that it would help open up my lungs. Well, apparently the inhaler had more steroids in it and within a few minutes I started to feel really strange. Like I wanted to jump out of my own skin! Then shortly after that I became manic.
I don’t remember what followed but my boyfriend says I flew into a rage then locked myself in my bedroom. When he tried to get in I refused for a while. Then finally let him in and he said I was writing suicide notes and had several old bottles of pain meds out on the bathroom counter. When I became very sleepy and disoriented he called 911.
Thank God he did because I apparently took several pain pills and overdosed. I spent 3 days in the hospital on suicide watch and I DON’T EVEN REMEMBER DOING ANYTHING! I had taken prednisone before in the step down dosepaks and not encountered any problems other than moodiness. Not sure if illness, exhaustion and work related stress played a part but I WILL NEVER TAKE THAT STUFF AGAIN!
Rebecca hale
Tennessee
Second time taking pills first was the 10 day now It was a shot then 20 millagrams for 5 days! I took pills 3 Dayan stopped! No sleep swollen face nervous heart beating so fast panicing felt like I was dying! I have been diagnosed with chronic bronchitis and asthma I don’t care if this medicine makes it better in the end because I still haven’t slept my skin hurts I’m red all over! I also have hep c they say not to stop taking to taper off I stopped felt like I was dying! Never again! Any advice on the abrupt stopping? I’ve taking this short term pills twice, shots at least 6 times! Also since the very first time I’ve been incredibly tired!
stacey
Fairfield
I have been taking prednisone for 6 years. 5 he last two years have been unbearable. I take prednisone for asthma exacerbation. The only 0 nay issue is it causes me scicosidls…There words not mine but I do feel crazy. I can read the warning labels. I go from three doses of 125 in two days and they release me on 5 pills off 10 to 20 mh and wonder why I have anxiety through the rough….why even muscle in my body aches…..I cry uncontrollably this has been going on 6 years
…….
Martin
Rotherham
I am currently going through a 2nd case of optic neuritis. This time being much worse than the first (only 3 months ago.) This Time (unlike last time) I have been prescribed Prednisolone.
What a massive shock to the system!! And really without any real advise on how I might feel. Apparently to “be aggressive” I was on 500mg (yes 500) for five days, lowered to 60mg after that. To be lowered by 20mg every 14 days.
Palpitations, heart burn / chest pains, severe neck pain, headaches, short temper and unable to think….., confusion, light-headedness, insomnia and generally feeling energy-less and unwell. I have been told I need to stick it out although I’ve said I’ve had enough!
The effects are starting to dip a little now as the dose drops but wow. Powerful stuff that obviously has its positives but really has a dark side!
Michelle
Ontario
I am on day 28 of 50mgs of Pred. Other than the odd heachache and slight water retention I am feeling pretty awesome. I have a rare autoimmune disease Sarcoidosis which is in various organs of my body including my heart. This med has removed all joint pain and aches. If you are prescribed this med, remember there are MANY people that don’t get the horrible side effects. Most of the reading I have done are about how bad this drug is in high dosage. You never find the reviews about how great it is.
Cherrie
Pennsylvania
I was given prednisone at the emergency room due to an asthma attack. I filled the prescription took one at home and felt horrible like the worst feeling ever, like I put something in my body that was killing myself. Threw them out immediately and will never take prednisone again.
Sheila
England
I had myalgia and then temporal arteritis, which heavy doses of prednisolone cured. I then needed over 2 years to come off it slowly. Gradually all the side effects like dizziness,blood spots and rough skin, swollen ankles etc etc faded away and I finished the last dose a fortnight ago. Now I am constantly incredibly weak and sleepy. I try hard not to become depressed and walk every day but it is hard, as the drug gave me glaucoma and cataracts. Perhaps it takes a long time for the drug to clear out of one’s system.
lisa
UK
Hi, I started on prednisone 60mgs 2 days ago for temporal arteritis. Feel shocking! I’m 48 and a well person normally and am not looking forward to a 2 year course of this! Really? 2 years? I was told I’d be having a short course! At least I won’t go blind. Hopefully I’ll be ok but all this has been a bit of a shock. My partner is worried I’ll be more grumpy than normal!
alexander
southafrica
Hi, I have had 3 operation in the past 3 years, first removal of my nasal polyps, I could breath anymore through my nose, them I pointed out my lump under the ear, which resulted in parotid gland surgery, removal of most the gland. My hearing on this ear did drastically decrease over the years as well. I noticed my tinnitus/buzzing in the ear becoming unbearable. After seeing my doctor again, who removed the polyps and improved my life tremendously, he suggested a ‘stapedectomy’ due to osclerosis. The op went well, though my tinnitus got more worse, my hearing almost disappeared completely. After seeing my doctor again, he prescribed Prednisone and antibiotics, as he explained that my sinus infection is clogging up my ears and hearing. Only 2 days after taking 8 pills Prednisone daily, I felt that I can hear again on my ‘deaf’ ear, it was like a miracle, the surgery worked. My tinnitus is also a little bit better. Frankly being almost a week on Prednisone now, I don’t feel any side effects just coughing, feeling a bit weak but I sleep well. Well, I just hope my hearing stays the way it is and will improve even more.
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I had recent issues involving asthma and I was hospitalized twice. They prescribed me with this drug and now I have be having major anxiety and depression. I am also really paranoid for some reason when I hear noises. This drug is beneficial in some ways and not in other ways. For example for me it is negative all around. It doesn’t help my breathing and it make me 10000000 times more anxious than I usually am.
Also, I feel like I have to pee every minute and I feel like I’m going to fall asleep. It is also really important to be aware of the symptoms so you know what to expect.
Jill
A little over a month ago I hurt my back. I went into the Doctor and was diagnosed with Sciatica and put on 40mg of Prednisone for 5 days. The day I stopped taking it my skin hurt. It felt like I was either bruised all over or had a sunburn. The next day started with Tachycardia, extreme fatigue and stomach pain.
My Doctor does not think it’s due to the Prednisone because I was only on it for 5 days. But it seems like a pretty big coincidence that it started right after I came off of it.
I had an upper GI done which showed severe gastritis caused by the Prednisone. Now I have to have an endoscopy done to check for erosions and to have a biopsy done.
I was also sent to a Cardiologist who noted I have sinus Tachycardia, but believes it’s a symptom from something else. She stated it could possibly be from the Prednisone and I would just have to wait it out.
Nicole
Evans ,Colorado
Well I’ve been Severe Asthmatic since I was 4, I was taking liquid Steroids at 4, Gradually moving up to injections at 14 that would last up to 3 months. Unfortunately the Medication was the only medication ( Prednisone) that opened up my airways followed by tapers throughout my life ,now I’m 37 and from taking this evil drug. Now I suffer from early on stages of Oseoperosis,bone loss,depression ,severe anxiety along with other psychological problems. Also can’t and could never sleep on them associated with anxiousness,irritably, and on edge,body aches you name it. I am currently on a taper now as well, go figure. My asthma is so bad though and again Prednisone is the only way my lungs open up. Oh and if you are taking Prednisone long term it also affects your Adrenal Gland causing more issues such as Adrenal fatigue.
Nikki
Oh.
Well I suffer from multiple autoimmune diseases and haven’t needed to take prednisone recently. But I also had never paid attention to how I was feeling while taking it. My rheumatologist gave me 20mg for 2wks then down to 10mg for 2wks don’t know if I can make it. Day 2 of no sleep getting cranky.
Erik
Las Vegas
WHY don’t you stop taking a corticosteroid suddenly??? Nobody at the doctor’s office said that, the pharmacist didn’t say that, I found those words a couple paragraphs down in tiny type in the description of the drug papers with the prescription, but nothing about WHAT the problem would be! God Damn it this article isn’t much better! Will somebody tell me what it is?
The reason I’m asking is because I did just that months ago when I was prescribed Prednisone and I didn’t wan to take a steroid, so without any warning from the doctor or pharmacist (that time OR this time) I stopped after one dose.
My heart has been beating irregularly ever since, like it pauses briefly and continues with a heavier beat. It can be normal for hours, but usually it will do it once or twice every 15 minutes to 30 minutes. I’ve also experienced shortness of breath.
Will somebody please anti-up, get real, back up your sow of concern and let me know?
Thanks,
Erik
Brea
Texas
I’ve been on and off prednisone for years because I have an auto-immune disease. I do well on it. Just want to add to everyone who goes on it that it’s VERY important that your dose be gradually decreased. Right now, I’m on 40 mg a day. When blood work shows normal, my dr will start decreasing that amount. I’l’l go to 30 a day for about a week, then 20, etc. Right around 10 mg is tricky time because your body has stopped producing cortisone, and it’s only at 10 mg that it will start again. I’ll stay on 10 for about a week, then 5, and even then, I’ll have to drop to 2.5 a day before stopping. Too fast, and I get nausea, weakness, etc. and can’t function.
val g.
Eastbourne
Have been on steroids for 3 yrs at varying doses, but started to reduce at around December, but got sick and ended back on 50 mg, loads of anti etc, saw my consultant this week and now I have to go into hospital for minimum of 3 weeks to come of them, having read some of his stuff I don’t feel very happy about the whole situation.
Jennifer
Philippines
I started taking in Prednisone 20mg/3x a day just last week and we were not instructed by my doctor to taper down the dosage and she said last week to come back after a week for a follow up. By the way, I am 16. I asked my mom about the dosage and she said that the doctor said I can stop taking Prednisone last Thursday. Saturday came and my body is sore to the touch. I am also disoriented and having suicidal thoughts lately. Ugh! worst kind of body pain, tbh.
Pete
Houston
First of all, a big thank-you to the Graedons for hosting this site. It is therapeutic to be able to read other peoples’ experiences. There are many sites where one can find the side-effects of *taking* Prednisone; but, this is the only site I found that addresses the issues people have when they go *off* of Prednisone.
My story is not that interesting. I have had chronic back pain for almost 40 years, and have been given Prednisone a number of times when dealing with an acute issue with back pain or sciatica. Always the 6-day dose pack. I never noticed that it did much good; but, I never noticed any side effects, either.
About a week ago I had dental surgery, and was once again prescribed a 6-day does pack of Prednisone to deal with the inflammation, along with an antibiotic to deal with any possible infection. I felt GREAT while taking the Prednisone. Even little aches and pains that I normally feel were all gone. I was pretty sure that the lack of pain was due to the Prednisone.
What I did not expect was that the day after the last dose of Prednisone I would feel AWFUL. The tooth pain came back, along with every little ache and pain that I normally feel … except they all felt worse than normal. As other have said more eloquently … yes, the pain went all the way to the bone. I suspected that this might be withdrawal from Prednisone; but, since I have never noticed this withdrawal effect before, I was also skeptical of putting the blame there. It has been a few days now and all of the pain is subsiding. Unlike some others here, I do not anticipate a life-long effect.
If a doctor suggest Prednisone in the future, though, I am a lot more likely to ask about alternatives now that I know just how dangerous this drug can be.
Lillysez
pennsylvania
I have severe asthma and experience at least one crisis per year, usually in the winter. My dr (who is truly great, btw), usually prescribes methylprednisone shots, which I can handle in small doses. This time, however, due to the severity of the incident, she had me taking oral prednisone, 10 mg. I was to start w/ six pills twice a day, then taper down to 5, 4, etc. I didn’t even get through the first day when I was in utter agony. I had a crushing headache and knee pain worthy of a 90-year-old sumo wrestler. I also couldn’t sleep to save my life.
It hasn’t been long enough yet, but prednisone also gives me violent mood swings, which are very out of character for me.
Frankly, I think the cure is worse than the disease!
Ron
Bahamas
I am appalled at the high doses many have reported. I am elderly, and went to my ENT doctor 4 months ago for nothing more serious than a very stuffy nose. I almost never have colds or flu. I do have some allergies but they are mild and not troubling at this time of year. But I was using a decongestant every 5 hours. Doctor prescribed 5mg Prednisone twice a day for a week, followed by 5mg a day for a second week. Within 48 hours I was breathing through my nose perfectly, and I noticed that my arthritic aches and pains were almost gone. I felt terrific.
Since then after a few weeks I gradually developed a stuffy nose again. Doctor this time put me on 5mg Prednisone 3 times a day with meals for a week, 5mg twice a day for another week, and finally 5mg once a day for a final week. I had the same dramatic recovery, which lasted for several weeks after treatment was stopped. The amount of Prednisone I was taking is much less than any other of your letter writers, who were surely over dosed and not adequately tapered down.
OK, perhaps I react more favorably to Prednisone than most people, but it is a miracle drug as far as I’m concerned. Unfortunately I had to go through a third treatment but with the same good result. But the weeks have passed since the third regimen, and again my nose is gradually getting very stuffy. I am concerned about taking Prednisone again. My doctor is not as concerned as I am. He points to dosages ten times higher and more, that some patients need.
Jah
Florida
You might be right, my husband was diagnosed with CIDP and prescribed with prednisone 20 mg 2 X a day, he has taken it for 4 days now, last night started a severe migraine (he does suffer from that normally) he took 2 excision for migraines. He had been experiencing sleepless night past 2 nights, but last night early AM started vomiting, seeing numbers all over small and big, severe stomach pains, diarrhea, severe back pain from inside the spines, he says. I was going to stop this cold but after reading all of this I will tell him to weaned it out.
daphne
californi
My daughter took 10 mg 4 x a day for ONE week. She has had side effects of breathing problems, bleeding, stomach issues. I called doc and he said we can discontinue. Do you think it is okay to discontinue suddenly, or wean her off?
Warwick
Salamander Bay AUST
There are certainly some terrible side effects reported on this site. I looked because I have noticed slight irritation and itchy skin. I have been on Prednisone for 4 months to treat PMR.
Starting at 100mg for 4 days 75 mg for a further 5 days then 50 mg for a fortnight having the dose half every two weeks until I am now on 5mg until 27 Feb when I am off it altogether.
I seem to be very lucky only to have the skin issues although I have been waking up with pain in my arms and shoulders lasting a short while. I felt the Prednisone was not working as the pain is similar to but nowhere near as severe as what caused me to seek medical attention PMR. After 27 Feb hopefully the pain will cease if it is caused by the Prednisone. I have fortnightly blood tests to check on effects of the medication –liver and kidney function as well as my inflammatory markers so I am happy with the treatment I am receiving.
My heart goes out to anyone who is suffering side effects it must be horrible when the cure is worse than the disease!!!
Lisa
NH
I am having huge joint pain and after 2 medrol dose packs of steroids in which you taper off… this idiot dr. put me on a week of 40 mg. This is my first day and I am so rageful- I am lashing out at complete strangers. For instance, I told a woman who held up a whole lane of cars because she was trying to cut in that she didn’t know how to drive and that she needed to go back to her own country because we didn’t want her here. WTF? And I was holding up my pepper spray while screaming at her! Obviously I already have a mood disorder but it seems like I cannot stop myself from lashing out at stupid people. I feel absolutely insane!
F. M. Diehl
Carmel Indiana
I have been reading about the pro’s and con’s of Prednisone and mine is a case of reaction to a cholesterol statin. The statin reaction locked up my muscles in my legs and hips shoulders and legs to where I couldn’t move without severe pain. Removing a toothpaste cap was a labor, getting dressed was a real chore. It was difficult trying to turn the steering wheel of my car.
I went to my family doc and he put me on one tablet of 10 mg of prednisone per day after one day’s dose, I became less restricted, I can’t believe the huge doses I have been reading about I would be scared out of my mind to be taking such HIGH doses of this powerful drug, and would not hesitate to tell my Doc so. Those who do not taper off this med are just asking for trouble as in all meds, they need to be treated with respect. If my Doc said yeah it’s ok to just drop the Prednisone I would politely be seeking out a new Doctor.
Long story short, the prednisone works, but do your homework don’t just let this med mess you up, get second opinions, let the med work for you not against you.
Adrian
California
A lot of people on here are saying to stay away from Prednisone from their bad side effects. I have a different story.
I had a really bad allergic reaction to a natural oil I was using on my skin to get rid of a rash. My whole body from head to toe went in shock and I broke out in rashes everywhere and every inch of my skin was completely itchy. I was in so much pain. I went to the ER and they gave me Prednisone. They tapered me on 65mg. Within a day or two everything completely went away, but as soon as I got off of it my rashes came back. Long story short I was on 65mg every day for 5 months straight which is really dangerous because of the side effects.
Now my experiences on being on such a high dosage for such a long time. As another comment said their heart rate was fast, yes that does happen, but you shouldn’t freak out. I can see some people who would freak out because of that and make Prednisone seem worse than it is. Mental issues. For me my mind was faster and I was a lot smarter after a month or so of finally getting used to it. The first month my mind was foggy and I couldn’t think straight, but after that I was completely fine. I think it is just a period of getting used to it because it is a powerful drug so it is no big deal. Now at about 4 months my muscles started getting weaker. There was a point where at times I found it very difficult to lift something that was 10 lbs. And my muscles were aching. 5 months the doctor had to take me off it copd turkey and there was a couple months of recovery. To rid the aching of my muscles I got a Swedish massage to rid of the toxins. My strength quickly came back and I was completely fine.
Well now my rashes came back after a year and a half of being off Prednisone and the doctor has me on 50mg a day. No tapering this time and I stopped again cold turkey so my rashes could come back to do a biopsy. The only issue I have with the Prednisone this time is that stopping cold turkey causes my mind to be foggy and I get forgetful, but that only lasts a day or two. Resting also helps with the recovery. That’s about it, and Yea it can be hard to sleep sometimes because your heart rate goes up, but I am able to sleep 6 hours at the least. It is just something you have to get used to if you have to take it.
So I am writing this because some people are saying to avoid the drug and just live in pain or something similar to that. Prednisone has helped me greatly. It is a powerful drug with bad side effects so Yea it is good for emergencies. Sorry if some people have had bad reactions to it. You can have a bad reaction to any drug. As for me being on such high a dosage for so long, I probably will have bad long term effects like weak muscles or something. Maybe I won’t idk, but I would not recommend such high dosages.
Lillysez
Not to sound like a smart aleck, but have you tried a regular allergy med, Benadryl, Benadryl cream, hydrocortisone cream, or calamine lotion? I’ve found those work really well for skin rashes w/ little to no side effects.
Vicko
Sydney Australia
I am allergic to contrast dye. I needed to have a CT angiogram which used contrast dye. The radioligist prescribed Prednisone to ve taken before the angiogram to prevent the reaction to the contrast dye. 50 mg the night before and 50 mg one hour before. So, all in all 100 mg over two days.
Well I stil came out in a rash from the contrast but started to get strong stomach pains and mild nausea. The pain wad constant and after a week I was convinced that I had stomach ulcers or even stomach cancer.
I want to my GP and he told me it was the side effects of the prednisone. I would never have had the angiogram if I had known of the side effects. I only had two doses and will never take it again.
Avoid this evil drug at all costs.
SKG
Ontario
I am sorry to hear about all the horrendous side effects others have been experiencing, however, one requires a good physician to help you weigh the risks and benefits in terms of your overall health. Corticosteroids are certainly not something one takes like aspirin and can have very serious side effects as mentioned. However, in my case my health (life) is at serious risk if I do not take this medication – Currently, there are no real alternatives – I am just glad there is something that might help reduce the inflammation in my heart but I do worry about the outcome of being on high doses for long periods of time. I will have to try to manage other health concerns to reduce the potential effects, for example, risk for diabetes & bone loss.
Cerise K.
Jackson,Michigan
I love to take prednisone. It makes me really happy. I am always in severe pain so it takes the pain away & cleared up my eczema. It does make me hungry all of the time & sweaty & I don’t like that. Gave me moon face. I was taking 20mills twice a day. I don’t get much sleep anyway so that didn’t bother me. I wish I could take it all of the time. I am kind of a bitchy person anyway but it did take my bitchiness away. LOL Now that I am off of it ky eczema & pain are back so now I am depressed. I just wish I could take a smaller does to keep things at bay. I guess I am the only person on here who likes prednisone.
kim
michigan
I was to start my new job today. I woke up in a panic again for no reason! I have been paranoid and acting nuts for the last few days. And I was so dizzy I fell twice. I’m dizzy right now. I was afraid to tell my husband what a freak I felt like. But after the dizziness and falling this morning I had to tell him. I cannot believe how awful it feels to stop this drug. I’m hoping they will save my job for me. I’m so sad My Dr said nothing!
Stephanie P.
United States
I don’t like taking any drug that isn’t necessary but I’m really grateful to my doctor for prescribing prednisone when I need it. I have Lupus and now have organ involvement. My heart hurts and feels swollen. When I take prednisone, the pain goes away and I’m able to function and work . I have been on prednisone for a long time and would like to eventually taper off. I take a benedryl right before bed which helps me to sleep. Tums helps with indigestion and exercise helps with the weight gain. I do feel that everyone experiences side effects differently and should be warned but my quality of life is much better because of prednisone.
jill
sc
I was prescribed prednisone after being diagnosed with bronchitis. While on them, I felt bad but the day or 2 after my pills were done I started to feel I’d say the worst ever in my life. I got extreme weakness in upper body even legs where I could barely get out of my car. Also on my upper body it was tender and slightly sore to the touch as if I something had hit me the night before. Also rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, neck pain like no other, headache and when sleeping feeling woozy/ paralyzed feeling. Please tell me someone out there has experienced this. This is my 2nd day w these side effects and its not better yet. I even went to er last night BC I thought I was having serious problems since my left arm was numb and upper body feeling crazy unexplained weakness. Thanks
julie J.
Geeze, I am so sorry about your dilemma. But speak with your doctor about All of your symptoms. And God Bless You !
Patricia
Pa
Hi Jill I to just done with my steroid prescription I have had the same think happen as you I am getting rapid heart rate my bones hurt very cranky I wake up my clothes are drenched in sweat terrible headache I never want to take this prescription ever again
Jane
NY
I took prednisone for bronchitis this week. My doctor has always taken good care of me, and he prescribed a small dose that he said would taper off easily, 30mg day #1, 20 mg day #2, 10mg day #3. But I had never taken it before and my reaction was immediate and terrible. My heart was racing, skin crawling, I was angry, confused, shaking, and crying. I woke up every hour through the night with extreme anxiety. By day #3 I had a full manic episode, screaming at my husband for hours and threatening suicide. I locked myself in our room, and though I only had a flu/cough, I honestly wanted to end my life. This drug should only be prescribed for serious disease and life-threatening circumstances. I cannot believe doctors are allowed to prescribe it as an anti-inflammatory for viral or bacterial infections when there are so many antibiotic options at their disposal. Never again!
J.S.
United States
My husband became psychotic and committed suicide in 2013 while being tapered from high doses of prednisone. He had been on-and-off of it for complications following a bone marrow transplant. I had told his doctors he needed psychiatric intervention but they refused to prescribe anything or refer him for psychiatric treatment other than tapering him off. Their reasons were valid, they were unsure about how psychotropic medications would interact with his current medications, but were unaware of how dangerous my husband’s mental condition had become. By the time I realized he was suicidal, it was too late. So be forewarned, you might be on your own in dealing with this drug.
julie J.
Oh My! God Bless You Sweetie! And thank you so much for sharing your experience.
Jane
My heart goes out to you and your family. No patient should be left to cope with suicidal thoughts without medical intervention. I hope you brought legal malpractice against the physicians who ignored your plea.
Alexandra Steiert
United States
I just started talking prednisone yesterday although I have taken it in the past. My Dr put me on 10 mg doses ,4 a day for three days and then 2 tabs for three days and slowly decrease from from there. I started noticing bad back pain after the second dose that day and lasted most of the night. I used my heating pad it was so bad and almost took a trio to the er. Now I’m scared to take more and waiting for a call back from my dr. I think the doses are way high.
Richard M.
United States
prednisone has ruined my life…..I am suffering from insomnia and have been to the ER so many time the the doctors there do not seem to want to help me. I tell them that the prednisone is whats causing it and all they can says if well its a pretty rough medicine. I literally had a doctor come up to me and ask what the story was this time?!? like I am making things up!
xxx
PA
With all these serious side effects I think it is time for a Class Action suit against the drug manufacturer
Jane
I agree! Clearly patients suffer beyond reason, and in the case of J.S. whose spouse committed suicide, this drug needs to be classified and controlled for specific use only. A basic psychiatric evaluation of any patient should be a deciding factor if it must be prescribed. Also, follow up within 48 hours should be mandatory and immediate attention given for their safety.
Lillysez
Frankly, I think you’re right. I understand that this drug is a last resort for many people, but prescribing it should come with a FULL list of the potential side effects and reactions and explicitly state that these reactions are more likely the higher the dose. Shouldn’t the patient be allowed to decide, and make a truly INFORMED decision? After all, it is the patient, not the doctor, who is running the risk of truly vile side effects.
codi d
Phx,az
I am researching the side affects of this drug since i am on it. I have noticed heart flutters multiple times in 2 days. I wasn’t able to sleep well last night and i have yellow something pouring out of my nose from this stuff. Needless to say i wont be taking this again. I can foresee many other side affects headed my way with prednisone 30 mg just from a sinus infection.
Richard
Wrightstown Nj
i was just given three 20mg tablets at the ER and prescribed to take three tablets a day for 4 days…
after reading the horror story’s is it worth taking it?
Jane
NO!! If nothing else it should be tapered down day-by-day. Never quit it cold turkey. There are too many alternatives to reducing inflammation or curing an infection.
lacinda Herrmann
Kentucky
my son is 2 years old he will be 3 in july, he suffers from asthma. He was diagnosed with type A flu the 12th of January, the doctors did not give him anything to take for it, within 3 days it had turned into acute bronchitis, acute sinusitis. They then give him prednisolone, and an antibiotics, along with his inhaler. He has taken the prednisolone for two days now, let’s just say it has turned him into a completely different child. He gets really agitated, shows a lot of aggression, he got upset and punched our shower door. He is only 2 and shouldn’t have to deal with this stuff. The doctor never warned me of the side effects of prednisolone needless to say he is not taking the medicine anymore I will not give it to him.
J.Clark
Oklahoma City, OK
I lost my hearing in one ear, in August of this year. Treated by a hearing specialist with sinus rinses, twice a day and spray, said hearing would come back in 6-8 weeks which it did. I continue with sinus rinse 1 x day. Go in for nose polyp test in two weeks. Continue to hear, but can hear my breathing and inside of ear does not look normal yet (per my primary physician).
During this time, I have had severe body pains, muscles and joints for the past months. Sometimes, cannot hardly walk as I am so stiff, arms ache badly at night. Mid December tests were taken and primary said it was positive for RA. I made the appointment, but cannot get into specialist until March. Meanwhile, I was prescribed Prednisone 10 Mg. which worked magnificently for me. Pain just eased away, I could walk well, no pain.
It worked throughout the prescription which was 4 days on 3 days on etc., till wean myself off. I was find for about three days and pain and body stiffness returned with vengeance. Called primary and she prescribed MethyIPrednisolone. It is a 6 day and then down to one tablet (4 mg). It has once again eased my pain. I am on my last day today and praying the pain never returns.
I have had very positive relief with this drug. The only side-effects was night sweats, sometime 2 x night. This I can deal with. I just wanted to comment that sometimes this drug works…I had heard only negative remarks. J.Clark
grant m.
Canada
Prednisone helped save my sanity through a severe case of Nummular Eczema. The dose was 40mg for 4 days, 30mg for 4 days, 20mg for 4 days, and 10 for 4 days. I was told the dose was tapered for good reason, and not to adjust it on my own without consulting the doctor. Near the end of the 16-day treatment, I experienced some confusion and shakiness, which was a mild trade for the skin-clearing power of prednisone. It works.
While I’m not a doctor, I find some of the dosages above to be heavy without a declination in amounts prescribed. This could be a cause for heightened severity of side effects…
r griffith
california
best dosage to avoid harmful effects
Victoria B
Lansing, Michigan
I’m 19 years old and I’ve been on and off prednisone all my life. At the moment I’m on 17.5 mg daily for this month, last month I was on 20mg daily, and the month before 15mg daily. I know the side effects that come with taking prednisone. For my body I get extreme mood swings, depression, irritability, weight gain, moon face, sleeplessness, hypertension. But with my disease I’d rather deal with all those side effects then have to experience horrible pain everyday without taking my steroids. As a person you have to ask yourself does that one benefit outweigh all the side effects? And in my case yes.
Steve
CA
Well, there are some awful side effects listed here, I feel for each story I read. I myself have found the drug effective for sinus polyps and have used them to prolonged the time in between having them surgically removed.
My side effects in simple words would be “road rage”. I will go off quite easily. Second my “filter” of what I say goes way down. I say things I wish I could take back.
I write this to say to some out there that I do see this as the miracle drug for my body, worth those frustrations.
Ellie M.
NH
I am now in my fifties and by the grace of God I got through a serious illness (sarcoidosis 5 which can result in death)that somehow I got in my late teen years in my nervous system being attacked by a terrible tragedy. Through prayer,the love of my family and a wonderful doctor came help. The sad part is that I had to go on Prednisone on and off over the course of the last 20 years. I had heard about the evils of this medicine and asked frequently to change but it was to no avail. I was never off it for more than 3 or 4 weeks at a time and I see clearly now that I was going through horrible withdrawals of the medication and the doctors didn’t realize it. They took it has more symptoms of the illness and put it back high doses of prednisone..50 mg and higher…. my doctor said if it wasn’t for my great diet in being a vegetarian I could have died… so my sister who is a nutritionist / herbologist (as are a few others in my family) kindly told me to get off and she would help me to recover by God’s grace… I am Telling You I am going going through every single one of your symptoms!!! My entire skeleton hurt so bad I thought I had bone cancer head to toe I couldn’t breathe, abdominal pain, my face was numb my feet and hands were swollen as well as my legs, I developed a few sores on my legs and my eyes flooded with tears uncontrollably.severe headaches with itching over my whole body like a band of mosquitoes attacking… I’ve had to be bedridden while I took the treatment flooding my body with certain raw juices 64 oz a day for over three weeks and raw foods… I definitely had to put my trust in God the whole way through… I’m in the fourth week and although I still have all the symptoms they have all been diminished greatly and I feel like a new person already… it would take me a few more weeks to become the person I was before I popped the first pill 20 years ago, when my doctors gave me a death sentence they are in shock… education of the doctors and a class action suit is a fair assessment for all who were blindsided by this love /hate medication monster… I will keep all of you in my prayers…
Ellie
NH
In an update about my progress, it is an uphill climb but very positive everyday. I was once a 15 + for pain and now I am a 7 ➕. After being on raw juices and herb treatment for over 6 weeks now I am feeling very thankful to God to have His Love and prayers of my family and selfless sister who took me by the hand to walk me out of this tragedy I will continue to pray for all that are in the situation and that God will send someone to you that knows about diet and recovery. For treatment and prognosis comes from doctors but health comes from the Lord and fate is in His Hand… God bless you all……
Ellie
NH
Hi to everyone! It’s been like over 7 weeks and I can honestly say that through all of this pain and suffering that there is a bright sun at the end of my tunnel! The prayers and the treatment my sister put me on has brought me a long way! My pain reflects every area of my body head to toe but the amazing news is that that it has gone down to a 5 ➕! I can now walk on the treadmill for 10 minutes slowly but thank God I can do it and also I can now go for short walks! It feels amazing!!!I never thought I would walk againor be normal at all….all the glory goes to God I will continue praying for all on this site……Take Care….
Ellie
I’m actually more like about 9 weeks time flies and when you have pain you lose all sense of weeks days and minutes
Michele
California
I was given Prednisone for my allergies, I am supposed to take 2, 20mg tablets a day. Ever since I started taking them I wake up nervous and shaky. I feel worse than before I took them. I do not want to continue taking them I feel dizzy and drugged.
grant m.
Get your doctor to wean you off them slowly! Don’t stop the medication without a consultation. Your pharmacist should help, if you can’t see your doctor for awhile. Good luck!
Georgina B.
London
I have been on prednisone for over 2 months now after being diagnosed with ITP and spending 10 days in hospital.
I started on 40mg and I have now been tapered down to 10mg. I have never felt so ill in my whole life even worse than I did in hospital when I nearly bled to death. I have headaches, muscle weakness, my bones hurt and I have developed severe anxiety. My anxiety is that bad that I have been advised by my heamotologist to move back to Manchester to live with my parents for a few months and get physiological help.
This really is the devils drug!!
Sgbear98
VA
I can relate. I had a nasty asthma attack that put me in the hospital for 6 days. They had me on high dosages of prednisone while there and discharged me with 40mg for 2 weeks then down to 20mg for 2 months. I have never felt so disconnected in all my life. I couldn’t think, I couldn’t talk without my voice shaking. I had anxiety so bad I honest thought about walking away from everything. I was yelling at my kids for the oddest and simplest of things, I couldn’t help it. It was so frustrating – It was like there was a person all manic and out of control and I am watching from inside this monster and I couldn’t control it. I was having chest pain and even went to my cardiologist, had a stress test, he probably now thinks I am not just an stressed out nut.
I am still suppose to be on it, but I couldn’t handle it, not a single day longer. I tapered it off and after three days free of the drug I am starting to feel better – I can think and talk. The downside is my asthma attacks have returned, though not as bad (so far) but right now, I just needed the break. I’d rather risk the asthma attacks than lose my mind.
I know it is a great drug for what it is meant to treat, but I truly think patients on this drug seriously need to be monitored rigorously for the mental effects. It is a powerful drug both good and bad.
Ellie
NH
I am now in my fifties and by the grace of God I got through a serious illness (sarcoidosis 5 which can result in death)that somehow I got in my late teen years in my nervous system being attacked by a terrible tragedy. Through prayer,the love of my family and a wonderful doctor came help. The sad part is that I had to go on Prednisone on and off over the course of the last 20 years. I had heard about the evils of this medicine and asked frequently to change but it was to no avail.
I was never off it for more than 3 or 6 weeks at a time and I see clearly now that I was going through horrible withdrawals of the medication and the doctors didn’t realize it. They took it has more symptoms of the illness and put it back high doses of prednisone..50 mg and higher…. my doctor said if it wasn’t for my great diet in being a vegetarian in great part I could have died…. so my sister who is a nutritionist /herbologist (as are a few others in my family) researched and kindly told me to get off and she would help me to recover by God’s grace…
I am Telling You I have gone through every single one of your symptoms!!! My entire skeleton hurt so bad I thought I had bone cancer head to toe I couldn’t breathe, abdominal pain, my face was numb my feet and hands were swollen as well as my legs, I developed a few sores on my legs and my eyes flooded with tears uncontrollably.severe headaches with itching over my whole body like a band of mosquitoes attacking… I’ve had to be bedridden a bit while I took the treatment flooding my body with certain raw juices 64 oz a day for over three weeks and raw foods… I definitely had to put my trust in God the whole way through…
I’m in the fourth week and although I still have some of the symptoms they have all been diminished greatly and I feel like a new person already..it would take me a few more weeks to become the person I was before I popped the first pill 20 years ago,when doctors gave me a death sentence they are looking now!!
Jerry
connecticut
Georgina, I was diagnosed with ITP in 2008 and had two others episode in 2012 and 2013. This drug had prevented me from bleeding to death but had destroyed my life. The side effects are tremendous. Besides the cramps, mood swings, irritabilities, sleepless nights and worse are the grandiose episodes that I had suffered. I had lost all my retirements saving due to getting involve in dead-end businesses that I would never get involve when I am out of the effect of this drug. I can right a book about it. Every time I tell my doctor about this he laughs… my family had shared a lot of the pain…
limmer
Indianapolis
8 days after my son was prescribed Prednisone, he tried to walk home from college which was 100 miles away from home. Fortunately, he got back to his dorm, we got there and took him home. The next day the doctor told him to stop taking the drug. We had him talk with a psychologist a week later . The psychologist was a family friend because our son did not want to see anyone else. He had some sleep issues…but was back in summer school at out local college, he was life guarding and doing a little part time job…he never once mentioned suicide. Three months to the day after he tried to walk home from school and when he had told us that he saw things in his dorm room, he committed suicide with a note that said he could not stand to remember it. the doctor never really addressed the psychotic reaction which our son apparently experienced. The doctor never suggested medication post psychotic reaction or even the psychotic reaction itself. I can’t write enough about this tragedy because, of course, we wonder what else we could have done. he had no history of mental illness, but after the incident he was just “edgy” and we could never put our finger on it. I will never get over this. Doctors need to address the side effects of prednisone. Our son was prescribed it because he had asthma and had an upper respiratory infection. It was the first time he had taken it – he was 19…died 2 weeks shy of his 20th birthday. People were so shocked because he had such joie de vivre – not some depressed teen angst prior to this prescribed medicine. my heart is broken.
Jane
NY
I am so sorry to hear about your son. That is absolutely heartbreaking. Was all that because of those 8 days or did he continue taking prednisone for a while longer? I pray that you may heal and have faith that God will make this right one day.
Theresa K.
Madison WI
I cannot even begin to imagine your pain, I am so so sorry this happened to you, your son and your family. Your story however may be able to shed some light on what my 17 yr old son is experiencing and I’m writing in hopes that you can lend some direction on what to do for my son.
So here’s what happened: Last Saturday (01/10/15) my 17 yr old son called me saying absolutely crazy, scary, things. I instantly knew something was wrong the second I answer. He started off by saying “mom I don’t know what’s happening but there is something really really wrong with me…” He went on to say how he felt like he was in a dream, that he couldn’t tell what was real from what wasn’t real, that he felt like he’s losing his mind, that he doesn’t feel normal and his mental thinking isn’t right and that he feels like can’t process things correctly, that he’s literally shaking, nothing seems clear.. and the last thing he said was “I just want to end this, I’m not ok”.
I sat there listening in horror while my, otherwise healthy/normal son, was saying just crazy things. Naturally he was scared out of his mind!! (as I was just listening to him say these things). I started asking him questions..”how long he’s felt this way, when did it start, any changes or medications I don’t know about, …etc”. He lives with his dad and I was not told he had been taking the drug Prednisone (20mg / 2xday) for s sinus infection. Apparently he had been on it for 5-6 days, but had stopped taking it on Friday (which is when the thoughts actually started-but were less severe), he called his doctor to ask if he could stop taking it- and was told that was fine.
Since the Prednisone meds are the only recent change he’s had, I felt that was the only logical cause for his irrational thoughts and what was contributing to how he was feeling. I decided to do an Internet search on the medication- I am absolutely horrified at what I’ve been reading about Prednisone! And am so angry at his doctor for prescribing it to him. When my teenage son calls me saying he can’t tell the difference from reality and what’s not reality.. that he just wants to end feeling that way.. that’s a problem and I’m about to tear into the doctor who told him it was ok to abruptly stop taking it and who did not educate us on the side effects.
I’m so angry right now.. I’m scared for my son, and not quite sure even who to direct my frustration and anger at right now. After reading about this drug I’m convinced that he should never have been prescribed it, and ABSOLUTELY should have never been given the ok to stop taking it abruptly, rather instructed to taper. I spoke to him last night, he says he’s still not back to normal, which was clear to me after he started asking me about events from his childhood.. he asked me if there was a time when he died, that he was convinced that he once died but somehow lived through some experience he had. I’m so worried for him, these things he’s saying doesn’t make sense, and to him nothing seems clear, he’s questioning things that may or may not hav happened. I really need some direction.. please, after reading your story I’m convinced that I need to intervene, I’m afraid that he might do something.
If there is anything you can offer, any insight, I would be so grateful. Your story in itself has been an awakening for me- I want you to know that it has touched me and has most definitely led me to see the severity of what he is feeling and actively seek help. Thank you for reading and listening to my experience.
Theresa K.
Jane
I hope your son healed after time off from the drug. I’ve had my share of sinus infections, there’s absolutely no reason to prescribe anything other than one of several broad-spectrum antibiotics, (500mg for 10 days) and daily sinus rinsing with a neti-pot or similar med-rinse from the pharmacy, with lots of rest and water. Please make sure your son is being treated carefully, and that he isn’t suffering delusions unnecessarily. Good Luck.
Lillysez
I am heartbroken for you. I, too, periodically get prescribed prednisone for my severe asthma, but as far as I am concerned, the cure is no better than the than the disease. Probably worse
I get severe body aches that feel like I’ve just gone ten rounds with Mike Tyson, vicious mood swings, including swearing at and kicking the bumper of a fellow motorist who took my parking place. (I should note I am barely 5 feet tall and normally as shy and self-effacing as they come.), crushing headaches and vicious insomnia. I realize this drug can work wonders for some, but it seems there needs to be much, MUCH more research done before it is prescribed regularly. It is a vicious, vicious drug.
hatepred
United States
I had never taken a steroid and developed a sudden breathing issue while visiting Phoenix, AZ, presumably from environmental factors. Prednisone was prescribed by an Urgent Care clinic, 40 mg each morning for five days, then 20 mg each morning for five days.
I made it through two days of 40 mg Prednisone, my breathing cleared up and I was desperate to stop the pred. I was lucky to get two hours of sleep each night. When something mildly stressful happened, I cried uncontrollably for hours. I felt spacy and racy, sweaty and nervous, like I imagine I would feel if I smoked a bunch of crack.
The nurse who prescribed it mentioned nothing about side effects so I was surprised this drug completely changed me, and so quickly too.
My doctor said it was ok to stop, so I did. I spent a day feeling all cracked out, restless and horrible. Then, I finally slept most of a night and started to feel normal again.
Now I’m wondering what affects those two days of pred had on my body. Is my immune system going to be suppressed for some time after this short burst of pred? How much pred still lingers in my body? How can I flush it out as quickly as possible?
I will only use pred for life/death situations. This stuff is crazy and the effects on your immune system can last a long time, from what I’ve read.
Cherie
Monterey
I was diagnosed with RA this past summer, triggered by PTSD. My doctor/s tried a variety of drugs that I reacted poorly to, which included Prednisone. I am tapering off that now. I was on only 10mg but had the worst possible reactions. I thought I was going crazy and the worst part of it was that no one bothered to tell me about the side effects. I haven’t been able to eat, sleep for days at a time, horrible ringing in my ears, shaking and anxiety attacks. I hate to think what would happen if I had taken larger doses.
I’ve been unable to work due to stress and concerned I may never work again if I’m forced to stay on this drug. It’s a horrible way to live and not one of the doctors I’ve seen seem to care.
RMP
America
I was having shoulder pain (possible pinched nerve.) I went to see an orthopedic doctor. He ran an X-ray of my shoulder and neck. No bone spur or anything showed up on the X-rays. He said that it could be a pinched nerve. He prescribed a low dose of Prednisone, oral route, 5 mg., 3 X a day for first five days etc. but on the third night, after dinner I felt agitated but didn’t know why. I went to bed and was having trouble getting to sleep. I woke up an hour later and felt disorientated. It was as if I had amnesia for a few seconds. I looked at the clock and did not know where I was and had to try to remember what my name was and it was VERY SCARY! Maybe this is a side effect that would lessen in time–don’t know. I finally did get back to sleep and the next morning I had pain radiating down my right shoulder to my right fingers. It lessened after I got out of bed and started moving around the house. I assume that this medication might have worked very well for other people but it certainly did not work for me. I have always been sensitive to medications so I already know that I have to be careful. I will not be taking Prednisone anymore. The few moments of amnesia was awful! I would appreciate hearing if anyone else felt that type of episode.
Abby
USA
My experience with Prednisone is very similar to yours.
Was given prednisone for an inflamed tendon in my shoulder- plan was to take it for 10 days, tapering off from starting with 60 mg for the first 3 days… First day was okay- on the second day I started having strong feelings of anxiety, my mind felt numb, I became increasingly depressed to the point of total disinterest. Confusion, nervousness, increasing difficulties to articulate myself followed in the consecutive days. Became very moody and for the first time in my life had thoughts of harming myself… Difficulties falling asleep and sleeping in general. Had to take one day off work due to nausea and disorientation and for the remainder of the work week kept apologizing to everyone for not being able to function correctly (“no, I’m not drunk- I’m on steroids”). Gained 6 pounds in 5 days. Two days before the official end I called my doctor’s office to discuss early termination. First thing that slips out of the nurse’s mouth was “Well, you would not be the first person to do this…”.
Stopped Prednisone on day 8 with two 20 mg doses left on December 19. Next day, I began to feel very strong muscle ache- mostly in upper body area. 5 days of severe migraine headaches followed. With migraine being gone, I noticed a bout of acne all over my face and back of neck. Currently my right ear is aching (started 3 days ago- not sure if that’s connected to the Prednisone or not- might just be an ear infection :(…. )
My shoulder is fine now, but looking back, I’d rather stick with pain than ever go on Prednisone again. I understand that the medication might be a godsend to patients with far worse ailments than mine- and that there is a point where the benefits outweigh the risks and side-effects. Personally, I pray that I’ll never reach this point in my life :(
Wishing all of you health and happiness in 2015!
Ellie W.
Malaysia
I was prescribed with prednisolone yesterday since I comes up with hives. I couldn’t sleep well (maybe few hours in a night) and hives doesn’t really seems to be improved so far. There is no significant changes in my behaviour but I couldn’t really rest and feel kinda depressed.
angela
minnesota
I was put on 20 mg predisone tablets twice a day for 5 days and then to take one a day until all were gone for a sinus infection. I was not told that this would stop the coughing from a cold and stop the blowing from my nose. It was horrible as within an hour I had a very severe headache.. was irritable and felt like I was having an out of body experience… Talk about feeling anxious.. It was an experience that is hard to describe but I felt like running around in circles without the energy to do it.. No sleep and no coughing which added to my stress as thought I was going into pneumonia… I even snapped at my husband when he said he thought this new medicine was the cause of my feeling so wild… I never snap at him and wondered what was wrong with me. I will never take it again unless for a life threatening time and have to.
Chris
95125
I can’t take NSAIDs, so when I hurt my back, the doctor put me on prednisone for 10 days. Wow! Not only was it the most effective drug for back pain I ever had, having suffered with tiredness for 25 years, I now felt absolutely wonderful & full of energy. I slept normal, all my bodily aches I’ve had for years were gone, and a weird disk-like rash I had for about a year went away. My sole regret is that I had to stop taking it.
Shana
United States
I was first prescribed prednisone in 1985 at the age of 37 when I was diagnosed with severe asthma, all bronchial, no allergies involved. My journey with this drug continued with very long and high dosages. I would be on for three weeks, off for two weeks and back on for how ever many weeks it took. This regime continued for at least 15 years when the asthma became controlled. At the 10 year mark, I was diagnosed with diabetes 2.
Every time I take prednisone my blood sugar rises to a very high level. I still have problems with weight, sleeping and sugar control. My doctor made me aware of some of the side effects. In fact, he even suggested a low dose paxil, which I refused at first but began taking after almost two years on prednisone. I am very thankful for that little pill.
There were no special instructions about what foods to avoid. Only through a book that I found on line, “Coping With Prednisone,” did I learn that I was eating incorrectly. I learned to steer clear of all simple carbohydrates, all of them. Of course, I had to stay away from sugar. Even changing my diet did not help. The weight gain I experienced still haunts me today. I am obese and the weight just does not come off. I walk for exercise and eat healthy. It is the stares from other people that make it even harder.
Now my condition is COPD. No, I never smoked. If you are just beginning to take prednisone, I will tell you there is absolutely no other drug that takes affect so quickly to help me to breathe. I suffer through some of the difficulties listed above but that is what I need to do if I want to continue to live.
Good luck to you.
Annie
Ocean grove
I take steroids about once a year when I have a flare up of ulcerative colitis.
It’s true that it’s a dangerous drug and not one to take lightly, but when I have a flare up its like a miracle cure.
Fortunately my doctor is careful in restricting my intake and so am I .
It’s true that if you haven’t had it before it would seem truly horrible, sweating, roaring in my ears, muscle cramps, wakefulness & pain.
But in my case it’s a trade off for a while to stop the diarrhea, exhaustion, constant sleeping, weight loss & not being able to eat.
Use it only for something serious and be very mindful of the dose, the tapering & how long you are on it for.
If there’s any other way, use that. It’s true it’s a miracle cure, but it’s a double edged sword.
Marie T.
New Zealand
I have rheumatoid arthritis and have been on doses of between 5 and 40 mg daily of prednisone for most of this year. I was on Humira (a self-inject biologic) for 3 months but had a severe skin reaction, (burning, weeping eczema and hives) so was on 40 mg prednisone to calm it down. I gradually got down to 5 mgs, but attempts to stop resulted in a flare up of symptoms. Then I went on Enbrel (another biologic) and suffered another severe skin reaction, this time only to my face. I had eczema and cracked, bleeding lips. I’m back up to 20 mgs and when I try to cut back, my skin deteriorates. However I know the prednisone makes my skin thin and fragile.
So sick of it!
joanne t.
washougal wa
I had a stroke and on the day of my release my Dr. decided I had had a giant cell arteritis and put me on 40 mg of prednisone and she took a blood test that came back negative but didn’t tell anyone so I took it for 8 days and my eye dr. decided I didn’t have it so I stopped it right away and the next day my Dr took a blood draw and made sure I didn’t have it, but I am having terrible side affects which the Dr. says is not from the medicine but I don’t believe them, all of a sudden I am anxious and nervous so they just want to put me on anti depression drugs. I am so angry that the Dr. at the hospital did not tell anyone I didn’t have, if she had I would have not taken the drug.
Willow
Michigan
Same for me, except I had no reactions to the humira or enbrel. They just dont work at all. I’ve been on prednisone for just under 2 years. And I can’t see my future without it… I’m only 22. :(
Polly
UK
I took 30 mg per day Prednisolone for just seven days to help get over a severe chest infection – as someone who already has very difficult breathing problems. The Prednisolone was a major benefit physically BUT about ten days after stopping, then depression became horrific. Maybe it has something to do with estrogen therapy also being taken and the thoughtful medical advice was given that I might benefit from leaving off the estrogen for a while. I’m not so sure that was a good idea.
I am back on the full dose of estrogen and that feels better, so far.
For those who don’t suffer depression, please understand that it is not a matter of “being depressed about something” – that is just being ‘very unhappy’ about something or some issue(s) in particular.
Depression is actually dangerous in that the thing that allows us to mentally suppress and order (to an appropriately necessary extent) the nastier things that we are aware of in all of life (war, financial crises, murder, crime of all sorts, politics and many of our day-to-day more personal issues), are no longer appropriately suppressed nor ordered. Everything is there on top. It can be overwhelming in its worst state and certainly in a mild form it can cause confusion of memory, partly, I think because that mental ‘filing and filtering system’ gets scrambled, too.
During my recent bout, I knew all my many passwords, no problem at all except the big one: which password applied to what? Was that one for the bank or was it my day-to-day email, or was it the one for my website? Or was it out out of date and now replaced with that one based on my grandparents?
Anyway, a lot better today, thank heaven but getting that memory stuff back in a proper state of order is not yet fully achieved.
Barbara R.
Salem County New Jersey
I was diagnosed with Lupus over 4 years ago, and I have been on predisone since my diag. I’m aware of the side affects. I have been trying to get my Rheumatologist to ween me off, she said when ever she tries, I start to flare.
I take 5 mg daily, is there another approach we can try? I’m 66 years old and I am worried my mental health and early osteoporosis and other health problems. I have been encouraged to explore integrative medicine.
Colleen R.
West Palm Beach, Fl
I too have lupus and was diagnosed with kidney failure. I was on 500 mgs of Prednisone and it took almost 2 years to ween me off of it but my rheumatologist put me on Plaquenil also. Originally, I was in the hospital for two and a half weeks and I started to have really bad mood swings and put on 20lbs while there. You are your best advocate. Remember the doctors work for YOU and how you feel matters. You are not forced to listen to them but make sure you convey your issues.
wayne
Boulder creek
Can taking prednisone early in life, at 10 with full blown crohn’s and colitis, cause growth problems? I took it until red was no more in bowel and weight stayed good. 3 to 4 yrs off and on it, but I’m in remission now thank god.
But the growth thing, can it effect the male /parts/? Feels like it scarred me for life… hives always, for life with acne… but bowel is good so I’m happy. But lonely… can someone answer this?
Em.
SC
Just finished a round that began at 40mgs (to treat vertigo, swelling & ear clicking from chronic sinusitis). Previously I’ve taken prednisone without much incident (aside from sleeplessness and increased energy); however, this dose was double the usual.
Side effects began with incredible insomnia and increased appetite, then rapidly transitioned to extreme, throbbing leg pains that only can be compared to receiving multiple shots while achy with the flu. With the leg pain came overall joint pain and muscular sensitivity, in addition to incredible depression (I’m an affable person). As intake decreased, side effects worsened to mental disorientation, extreme dizziness and the inability to hold up my head. My arms, fingers and face went numb, and my hands could not stop shaking. Breathing became difficult, and my legs couldn’t support me.
It’s been 32hrs since my final dose, and my legs and joints have not stopped aching. While mental disorientation and dizziness have waned, the physical side effects continue and in some ways have even worsened. My doctor advised taking advil to help with muscular pain but I have found warm epson salt baths to be the best remedy.
jen
arkansas
I was put on methylpred Nov 7 (21 pill pack) for AC joint separation. The first day on the drug I felt fine the second day I took one pill and started feeling awful panic/anxiety/ dizzy medicine head feeling/and legs are weak. I called Med Express the place that prescribed it to me they said not to take anymore.
So I took a total of 7 pills and I still have anxiety, medicine head feeling and my legs are also weak feeling. I have been unable to drive due to I don’t want to endanger innocent people. I have gone to my real DR several Times even had an MRI of my head because no one thinks my issues are still happening because of this drug. I was fine besides my shoulder hurting before taking this pill. I would not recommend this drug as my side effects are going on 4 weeks.
Ia_tea
Canada
I was put on prednisone for rheumatoid arthritis. When I got emerg my hands were so swollen I couldn’t drive or touch anything. The doc started me on 50mg and I stayed with that dosage for about 2 weeks. During that time my RA flare up extended to my entire right side of my body and I could barely use my hands and arm.
I’m not sure if the emotional hell I went through was due to the drugs or the fact that I was diagnosed with another stupid disease (I have celiac too) at 25. My face has been swollen, I don’t really feel like myself, I have trouble sleeping, my voice has been cracking, I’m loosing hair like mad and have some minor personality changes… but I wouldn’t change a thing. My RA is getting under control and I am now at 10mg and will slowing taper down the dose to avoid extreme side effects. While in theory I would tell people to not take prednisone, it helped me so much that I cant in good consciousness not share my story and let you all know that its worth the side effects in some situations. Hopefully by this weekend I will be completely off the drugs and get back to my normal state of mind with a mildly broken body :)
Lea
California
I’m on a prednisone 40mg once a day for 3 days. Then 20mg for 3 days and so on. For severe lower back pain where I could not stand up.
It seems to be helping, I feel I have more energy than I’ve had for years.. I have not had any negative side effects yet but I still have 5 days left…..
JustMe
florida
I was put on 40 mg once a day for 5 days for a severe tonsilitis! I wasn’t even thinking because the fever I had was so high that I just wanted to be better, but I should have known better than to take such a high dose. At any rate, I did get better as far as the fever, but my throat didn’t after 4 days of prednisone and a strong antibiotic. I was not told to taper, probably because it was a short course, but I didn’t take my last dose. Instead I took my husband’s Valtrex to see if that would help my throat since it looked like ulcers on my tonsil, which typically indicates viral. It worked! But…I now wake up with a super swollen face, hands, and feet since stopping prednisone!! The swelling does go down by mid morning but still a little swelling all day. I also keep getting headaches and I normally never get them. I still have dizziness and disorientation but not too bad. Still annoying though. I do have osteoarthritis, but the pain is more severe right now. Sure hope I get back to normal soon. I look like a freak in the mornings, I’m more tired than usual, and my body aches more! I have 6 kids to take care of!
KazD
Ireland
Hi, I was put on Prednisolone 30mgs yesterday for Chronic sinusitis and rhino-sinusitis – since starting them yesterday – they have already made me feel like I’m loosing the plot – I suffer deep clinical depression amongst a lot of other things and I done nothing but cry yesterday from taking these. I actually felt to the point I wanted to self harm and had to really stop myself. My husband has said my mood has gone all over the place from yesterday from starting these. I am on them for 1 week and then different treatment after that for 2 weeks then another different treatment there after… these tablets seem to have affected me almost instantly and not in a good way, my husband brought them back over to the chemist this morning and explained to them how they were making me feel and react – only to be told “Well she must need them, it is up to her whether or not she takes them” what kind of an answer is that? So took them again today and am ringing the doctor on Monday, as I say, I am only on them for a week however at this rate I will be ready to throw myself over a cliff.
I have never ever had anything like this in my life affect me like these and the only thing the consultant said to me was “They may make your hiatus hernia a little worse” nothing about anything else. Even writing this I feel like crying, it’s shocking. Have any of you been put on this dreaded medication for the same reason I have? And have any of you experienced what I am? I have also found from starting them yesterday, my head has been pounding, I don’t sleep well normally but had very, very little sleep last night. This to me is very worrying. I really feel for you all that is on this.
Geena
NSW Australia
I was on these dreaded tablets for 4 weeks (Dr wanted me on them for 10) but after the first week I was already feeling badly with insomnia, sweats, moody (crying all the time for nothing) so I rang him and told him I needed to wean off these things before I went loopy. He said ok lets do 25mgs for 1 week, 20mgs for 1 week, 15 for 1 week, then 10 for 1 week, 5 for 1 week and then stop.
Well this wasn’t fast enough for me so I did as he said until I got to the 15mg mark where I did 15 for 3 days, 10 for 3 days, 5 for 3 days, 2.5 for 3 days and then 1 for 2 days and then stop. Thought it would be ok until day 4 off them when I fell apart. The fatigue got me so bad I could hardly get out of bed. Have taken the week off work as I cant go due to this fatigue, numbness still in hands and feet, crying all the time and generally unwell. I understand this prednisone saves lives and is a great drug for some but I am not one of them and I will never go on these things again, there must be a substitute for this drug. One Dr. suggested I go back on them on a 1mg dose and start tapering off slower, is he nuts or what? Ive been a week without them as if I could go back now. No way…. I think if you have problems on this drug in the first week then speak to your Dr and get off them. They are not for everyone….
Bilal
Nebraska
After my doctor diagnosed me they found that I am ANCA positive, also the same time my kidney became affected from vasculit. Now I started 20mg three times a day. Does someone know if prednisone works for vasculit treatment?
The People's Pharmacy
Prednisone is prescribed to treat vasculitis.
Sandy H.
Oregon
Hello All,
I am soooo glad to have found this site! I went to Urgent Care last night because I have had a terrible headache with shooting pains in the right temple for five days straight. The doc said it could be temporal arteritis and prescribed a seven day course of Prednisone. I am bi-polar and have severe sleep issues. After reading the psychological side affects of this drug, there is no way I should be on it! I have been suicidal in the past but have everything under control now because of the right meds and a wonderful psychologist. I will definitely NOT take this! Haven’t even confirmed the diagnosis yet and he is prescribing the Prednisone like it’s aspirin without taking into consideration my existing problems, which I told him about. Fortunately the pharmacist told me that it might keep me awake all night so I didn’t take it as I had already been without much sleep for almost a week. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences with this drug… you have probably saved me from a very bad experience! My heart goes out to all of you struggling with health problems.
Thanks again.
DaisyD
NY
I was prescribed Prednisone to deal with an allergic reaction (hives, all over body itching) I had to Nabumetone, an NSAID for osteoarthritis. It worked for the allergy, but I had extreme heartburn for several days–so much so that I actually lost 4 lbs. It also made me nauseous. My orthopedist wants to prescribe a course of steroids (including Prednisone) to help me with my severe sciatica and lumbar arthritis I’ve had for 7 months. I feel like I am stuck between a rock and a hard place! Has anyone had success with Prednisone for osteoarthritis/sciatica pain?
Melanie
usa
I was prescribed prednisone for severe contact dermatitis from poison ivy, and I felt like kissing a pharmacist!! It worked so well to stop an out of control immune response that was making my life miserable!! Experienced dizziness and cloudy thinking as a result, considering discontinuing the rest due to upcoming Ochem exam! Rash is getting better and I need to study!!
Jill
Caribbean
After contracting Chicangunya, with one week of fever and agonizing joint pain, followed by 4 weeks of debilitating, persistent joint pain, making it very painful to walk, stand up, roll over in bed, etc.
All the literature indicates there is no cure for Chikangunya, only pain relief with aspirin and Ibuprofen. These helped my pain, but gave no improvement to range of movement or severe joint swelling.
After 5 weeks I went to my Dr. and he prescribed a 15 day course of Prednisone. Within hours of the first tablet, I experienced profound and complete relief from all joint symptoms, feel like a woman reborn.
Now, reading of possible side effects I am concerned about what will happen after I am off the drug. For now, I am pain free, energetic, feeling great, though suffering insomnia.
Donis M.
Wildwood, FL
This is my 2nd. Round of this medicine ( first time to repair my hearing that was damaged due to Encephilits in 2002). I am on the 20mg doseage for Tenfinitis on my left elbow. I have 2 more days left & a horrible cough…….
Hank
Have been diagnosed with chronic pericarditis, inflammation of the sack around the heart. Very painful! The only relief is prednisone in a high dose. WORKS UNBELIEVABLE! Within hours full relief. Been on different doses for 8 months. The bad was, once weaned off the drug I would have an attack of pericarditis… I am down to 12mg a day and 800 -1600 mg a day of ibuprofen.
I have gained about 15 pounds and my wife says I am very irritable when I was on 50 mg a day. I am looking forward to being off the prednisone in the coming months. Without the drug I would have missed much more work and suffered horribly. My wife and I are still together.
T.E. van Heerden
South Africa
I have shared my thoughts previously. Landed in hospital near death with an abscess. (Was diagnosed with Sjogrens disease.) The best advice I can give is to check if they are giving the correct medication. I was given Panafcort 2 months ago, a generic, and I had really nasty side effects. Much worse than on Prednisone. My hair was falling out excessively, itchiness very bad from head to toe, rapid heartbeat, very depressed, total lack of concentration, mood swings, no concentration and could not work at all and I had excessive muscle pains. I thought I was busy dying until I realized what it was. The Prednisone has side effects for me but not as bad as the Panafcort.
Elena
San Diego, Ca.
Thank you to the brave people sharing on their use of prednisone 20mg. When I go to the doctor I always obey and buy the prescribed medicine….BUT….first I research the side effects! And you convinced me NOT to take! I will let my body Heal slowly. ( My symptoms, back from traveling were flu like, stomach, throat, general ill feelings, serious, but getting better).
Mack
Chicago
I am in high school, and I have been put on prednisone more than five times that I can remember. While on prednisone for asthma I could not sleep and I felt very jittery. It also made me very anxious and hyper. I do not recommend prednisone unless you really need it.
Eileen
Canada
I have PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica)…..a very painful condition. I suffered for a few months before being diagnosed. Had a useless life; couldn’t enjoy my grandchildren or continue any physical activities. I was diagnosed 2 months ago and my doctor prescribed 25 mg. of prednisone a day; taken in the morning only. It was a life saver! I have no more pain, am active. Was warned of all the side effects, but fortunately so far only small weight gain and a puffy face, and a dry mouth and throat (can’t sing anymore). I sleep well at night (because I don’t take it before bed). Maybe I am one of the lucky ones from the comments I have read. But for some conditions, like PMR, Prednisone is a necessity if you want a pain free life. My Dr. has said I would probably be on it for a year maybe longer. PMR could be a part of my life…..it can go into remission but it can also return any time. Thought I would post this as it is kind of positive. Usually see a lot more negative comments posted.
Genevieve
Arizona
I also have PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica) and am on 20 mg. of prednisone once a day. All the pain I had was gone in the 4th day taking the prednisone. It was a welcome relief after suffering for about 10 months not knowing what was wrong. I have had weight gain and some trouble sleeping at night and mood changes and I can cry for no reason at all. Those are minor side effects compared to the pain I had. It gave me my life back. I understand some people have not been able to take prednisone because of bad side effects but for me it is worth the risk. I am very lucky, prednisone gave me back a pain free life. I think some people did not have the right information about the drug. You must come off it slowly and with Dr. supervision. There has been a lot of negative posts about prednisone but it can be a very good drug for many people.
Mary Jane
Arizona
I have PMR also, and would like to communicate with you regarding the treatment we are taking (prednisone) It makes me have memory loss, elevated BP and generally feel spacey. I am glad it is helping your pain. It help mine somewhat too. Do you have to take any other pain med with the prednisone or does it take care of everything.? Thank you, MJ
Tracy D.
United States
I had been prescribed 3 consecutive scripts for prednisone 60 mg with a 9 day taper (40, 20) to stop my sciatica pain til I could have a nerve block, epidural. I have gained 10 pounds in 27 days, was suicidal, depressed beyond belief,.blurry vision, audio and visual hallucinations and basically unable to work the final week.
I have never had such a terrible month in my life. Yes, the physical pain stopped, but I am just now starting to feel almost human. My doc prescribed xanax, half mg 3 times a day which has helped with the rapid heartbeat and panic attacks. Please speak with your doctor about all these side effects. In a million years I would NEVER take it again!
skip
upstate NY
I suffer from sciatic and been in daily pain for over a year. on pain scale 1-10 its probably 5 to 7 most days. I was very active. I was put on lyrica and take 600mg daily but still have problems with pain. A few days ago I had allergic reaction to this hair dye and had to go to immediate care treatment. The Doctor there and a very good one examine my condition and put me on prednisone 20mg 2X a day for 5 days. Well this wonderful pill helped with the allergic reaction I am having plus I noticed the second day I woke up and hardly NO PAIN plus my energy level in the stratosphere. I am wondering if the steroid is having impact on my pain level. I will be seeing my PCP soon and tell him all about this.. WOW, I still feel hardly no sciatica pain going on 3rd day.
belinda
cairns
The doctor has prescribed me 25mg twice a day for 5 day for chronic pain in both hands at night. The pain in my hands has gone. I’m on day 3. However, I have had no sleep, I’m crying. I feel nausea, I feel like a zombie. .. I’m thinking just stopping this medication and just put up with this pain in my hands. The doctor didn’t tell me about these side effects.
Phillip
VAB
I just started taking prednisone today for what will be a duration of five days. Hope I don’t argue with people at work.
Ken
Millington NJ
I’ve recently experienced a series of adverse events while taking Prednisone for poison ivy and it’s very serious. I suddenly got very argumentative with my girlfriend on the day I completed the dose (I was tapering down but for whatever reason, I had three 10mg pills left and took them remembering the doctor encouraged me to complete the dose.) That evening we went to the park for a jog, so I took two Aleve and some 5 hour energy.
The short story is she hasn’t talked to me since and she has moved out of the house and says she’ll never talk to me again. She dismisses that my extreme argumentativeness was due to the Prednisone. I don’t blame her for being hurt by my words and feeling frightened by my aggressiveness. It took me a couple of days to recognize that it was the Prednisone that was driving me to try and win arguments over two subjects that have challenged us in the past.
Uninhibited, I felt that I could convince her to see things my way. All I did was scare the hell out of her. Losing her has made the withdrawals even worse, I’m a basket case and went to see a psychologist for anger management. It can be extremely destructive to those who are sensitive to the side effects in this drug. Heads up, avoid potential heartbreak, ask someone to keep an eye on you when you’re medicating. Avoid interactions with naxporen and alcohol! Please be careful out there!
Fleuramore
Salisbury, Massachusetts
I’ve been diagnosed with spondylolisthesis which is causing severe sciatica. I initially took 10 mg Prednisone for 5 days with virtually no side effects. Two weeks later I was given a Methylprednisone “pack” to take over 6 days. Again, no side effects but then 10 days after taking the last pill of the pack, my face is covered in pimples and my ankles and feet are blown up like balloons.
The acne I can live with but the swelling is terribly uncomfortable and worrisome. When I asked my Orthopedist why this is happening and how long it would last his response was “I don’t know”. I can’t find any info on how long the swelling might last. Does anyone know or has anyone experience the ankle/feet swelling?
rhonda
houston
I’ve taken Prednisone off and on the past 12 yrs for asthma. I’ve never had any side effects.
wro
portsmouth
Last sunday I went to the E.R. due to an allergic reaction to an unknown allergen and a subsequent asthma attack and they were put me on 20 mg. of prednisone and now that I’m weening of it I’m experiencing a cough that wont quit & bad hip pain to the point where it hurts to walk & my inhaler isn’t solving it either.
kristal
over the rainbow
I had severe hearing loss in my left ear they had no idea why but I was described presidone and I have been on it for four days I hate it it makes me feel weak. I am very grumpy I have insane mood swings and I get hot than cold so far it has not helped never thought I would be on steriods espeacially at the age of 15. If anyone knows what you can do to help sleeping can you tell me?
Cameron
United States
I have been on Prednisone for over a year and a half now. Now quite three years ago I developed an ulcer on my lower left leg that doctors thought was a bad antibiotic-resistant staph (MRSA) infection. After surgery to debride the wound and then a year to heal from it, I was given the all clear, only to have a new spot appear on the same leg, a few inches away. After seeing several more doctors including two specialists in different fields, I was diagnosed with pyoderma gangrenosum, an autoimmune disease similar to Krohn’s or IBS (same disease, really, the location it occurs is what determines the actual name, near as I can tell. so, bowels is IBS, leg is pyoderma, etc), and apparently also related to rheumatoid arthritis.
I was put on 100mg/day of prednisone to start with, and while I was rapidly tapered off of that insane dosage, I was stuck between 5mg and 20mg/day for most of the last year, as my dermatologist tries to wean me off. I was having irregular outbreaks of my condition whenever the dosage went below 20mg/day and constant ones at anything below 5mg/day, so I finally switched doctors again and am now seeing one at the dermatology clinic at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. He put me on cyclosporine, which is allowing me to wean from the steroids, to the point where I’m now only taking 20/mg every other day. This past Wednesday (4 days ago) was the first day in over a year and a half that I didn’t take any prednisone. The schedule the doc currently has me on should have me off entirely within 5 weeks or so.
I can personally vouch that this drug is hell. Yes, it is able to control my pyoderma, but the cost is astronomical and I would say not at all worth it.
I have always been argumentative and sometimes abrasive, but while I’ve been on the steroids those aspects of my personality have increased to a degree where some days I’m surprised people will have anything to do with me anymore. My wife and I almost never argued and certainly never got into lengthy bouts of anger with one another, but since I’ve been on this we seem to get into fights well more often that is healthy.
I have gained 150lbs; weight I haven’t been able to even attempt to lose while still on the steroids because I’d simply bulk up rather than burn it back off.
And I now have fairly regular bouts of depression, nothing suicidal, but definitely entire days where I want to do nothing beyond sleep because, and cross-my-heart on this running through my brain, “there is literally no reason to be awake.”
Even now, finally coming off the steroids, it seems worse than ever, because I now have days both on and off the medication where I can feel my mood swinging back and forth like a damned pendulum. Today was an off day, which means that all day I’ve felt fatigued, cranky, irritable, overly sensitive, and have spent the last two hours constantly on the brink of bursting into tears for absolutely no reason at all.
And all this is just the obvious stuff I can see on my own or be told by people around me, it doesn’t include the stuff I’ve been getting blood tests done to check on for the last 18+ months, including rising glucose levels, pancreatic shutdown, kidney damage, liver damage, or a myriad of other effects. Thank everything that might listen that I haven’t suffered from any of those, but I’m not even yet off the stuff, so I’m not entirely out of the woods yet. It’s not like those effects are particularly rare or the doctors wouldn’t have me getting blood drawn every couple months to check on it.
Prednisone is NASTY stuff. Yes it has helped me, but there are still days where I think the cure may well have been worse than the disease. If you do have a condition for which a doctor prescribes steroids, please be aware of the side-effects and make sure to discuss them with family and close friends. I’ve found that just knowing how it’s been affecting my personality and being able to keep an eye out for it makes it at least a tiny bit easier to deal with.
Bryce
Wisconsin
I’ve been on 60mg of prednisone for 4 days, no side affects yet. Honestly I feel 10 years younger then I am (at 33), it’s weird. I was prescribed prednisone for a sinus infection and inflamed tonsils. I’ve read up that it’s used to treat cancer, to what degree? I just hope I’m not feeling this great bc I unknowingly have cancer.
christine
beaver falls pa
The first time I was prescribed prednisone I was 25 yrs old and had a horrible bronchial cough for months. It was awful. I tore muscle tissue above my ribs from coughing so much. I remember being completely drained by the end of my work day just from coughing up nothing. Finally after several other medications failed I was given prednisone.
I swear I had not experienced one day of depression my entire life, although it is very prevalent in my family, until coming off that medication.
I am now 41 and have taken anti-depressants everyday since.
It’s the only thing that works for me when I get these coughs and I’ve only needed to take it a handful of times since, but I will always believe it brought out depression for me that maybe otherwise I wouldn’t have had to live with. It used to make me sleepy and mean. Now it makes me sleepless (and still mean). Haha. Just wanted to share.
Fran
Tennessee
After having terrible headaches for 3 months the doc finally did blood tests and my SED rate is through the roof. I have to have temporal artery biopsy but first he wants to put me on prednisone because of the inflammation. I had been on prednison maybe 4 or 5 years ago and went thru a terrible depression that kept getting worse to the point where I was suicidal. I wound up going to a mental health clinic in desperate need to talk to someone and was told that that could be one of the side effects. After checking with my rheumatologist (at that time) he disagreed. I will NEVER take this horrible medicine again as it was one of the scariest things I’ve ever gone through.
Allana
Deer Lake, NL
Hi I have been taking Prednisone for a week now. I can’t sleep, and feel so exhausted. Will taking a sleeping pill help me get some sleep? Today I took my Prednisone for 7 days now, because my voice get very weak. Until I have just a whisper, or I write down to talk. My heart is good, oxygen level good. So when I went to the Emergency, I could say two or three words at a time. They had me in the crash room, and just took x-rays, heart monitor, oxygen checked. All of that turn out good. They kept me in, because I could not get two words out at a time.
I was there for observation for two days, and they gave me IV. I did not get better, though the Dr in the hospital said I was improving. still don’t know what is wrong. They said I have to see a ENT, and he is saying it is red past my valve, he used pipe that sees further down my throat. I still can’t talk. Now I have a bad allergy that caused swelling in my face, eyes puffing up, shaking, and a lot of pressure on my chest. My family Dr gave me a allergy needle. So he said go off of them. Now what do I do? I lost my voice and not getting better. Please could anyone help me. Prednisone is so bad for me, with all the side effects.
Christine
Sydney Australia
Please everyone I totally understand all your heartache concerning prednisone …. Firstly this is what I use to sleep as steroids meds stop you sleeping and to constantly take sleeping pills is dangerous too…. So start taking magnesium supplements. 1 hour before you want to go to sleep take a high dose magnesium supplement… Also invest in getting magnesium oil spray which I use spraying straight on skin which absorbs way quicker. This has really helped me with the sleep deprivation from steroids meds.
Also this is important info I’ve researched and learned… You must take calcium supplements when taking magnesium as they work hand in hand and add to that mix vitamin d…. Steriod meds will decrease or long term use can cause oesteoporosis so keep up glucosamine and chondroitin supplements too for bone health. I’ve posted here before and search for my post… You must be vigilant as I’ve suffered 2 years of ill health and 40 doctors not recognizing addisonian crisis from being weaned off steroids meds where I was constantly passing out with slurred speech And paralysis in arms and legs… You must get blood tests performed to see your DHEA levels as steroid meds decreases your DHEA levels can be affected and you become so fatigued…
The best tests for cortisol level testing is Saliva… It’d the most conclusive… Also if your adrenals can be knocked out by steroid meds which can effect your whole endocrine system… Thyroid… Adrenal insufficiency… Pituitary glands etc…. This is pure hell and has happened to me and try getting and doctor to believe you whilst you suffer pain each and everyday…
I’m passing this info onto you all as I’ve had to resort to my own research and to try to find my cause as to why I’ve experienced the worst hell and since taking prednisolone it has made my like a living hell ever since… For Thyriod of tests please get all of these flowing blood tests… To determine properly if your Thyriod has been affected by steriod meds… Trust me, your doctor will only test your TSH levels and that test is not conclusive enough to determine Thyroid function…
So even if you have to pay for it yourself, do it because if you don’t you will feel sick everyday and be told nothing is wrong with you, here are the flowing tests to get don … Thyroid… TSH, TPO antibodies, Thyroglobulin antibodies, TSH receptor antibodies, FREE T 3 and FREE T 4 levels… Other blood tests are DHEA levels and cortisol… But the most occlusive cortisol test is saliva… Get your doctor to check pituary gland and for adrenal insufficiency… This is not commonly recognised with a lot of doctors…
Trust me they will say your just depressed etc… I’ve been passing out slurred speech and paralysis and 40 doctors Nd six hospitals say there is nothing wrong… I’ve found one doctor who is finally now helping me where no others would. Get informed and research yourself too it’s your only defense… I hope this can help many people and please don’t skimp on your health… People advice that has helped me are as following… Of course this site… Isabella Wentz to do with Thyroid… I found her on Facebook she has the best info for Thyroid… Www. Phion. Com.au for overall health and probiotic and hair analysis google adrenal insufficiency and addisonian crisis info that steroid meds cAn cause… And good luck everyone xxx
Hilary
Minnesota
I was given a Medrol dosepack (methyl prednisolone) for an allergic reaction to a caterpillar (I know, it’s weird).
I noticed a vibrating sensation in my body at night when I lied down to sleep, like lying next to a running semi or something. I honestly thought it was something in my house for a few days. Then my blood pressure went way up, I had ringing in my ears, intense headahces and goofy fears at night. I was lying on the couch one evening and looked at my own legs and had some weird moment where I thought I was looking at someone else. I have finally decided I think it is from the steroids. I am three weeks out from the last pill and it is still going on. They put me on a blood pressure med and that came down and I started feeling better. Has anyone else had that vibrating sensation when resting? You can’t see any tremor at all, just feel it inside.
Daniel
WV
I have had the vibrating sensation but only in my right leg.
A. Muktadir
london
I’ve recently had to take 40mg prednisolone once a day for 5 days for my asthma flare up. I’m type 1 diabetic also and found out the hard way as to why my sugars were so damn high whilst I was on prednisolone. Anyway, my asthma was terrible at first so once I took the pred it has definitely calmed down but I can still feel the wheeze in my lungs so I’m still having to take my salbutamol (blue reliever) to breathe easily.
I was taking 40mg Prednisolone + symbicort + beclomethasone + salbutamol in one day which eventually made me collapse on day three of the prednisolone course. It’s a powerful drug and I never was given any counselling by the doctor nor the pharmacist. I’m still struggling with the asthma but not as bad as during the flare up so I’m happy about that. I’m on step II of the asthma ladder but I think I may be bumped up to step three coz this wheeze ain’t shifting.
Dorian
dallas,tx
I had been taking prednisone for quite some time to deal with swelling lymph nodes. Felt really out of it one day and had to leave work. Went to ER and had HEART RATE 190 & ATRIL FIB! The ER Dr’s said it was from drinking, but I was at work when it happened. I thought they were right till I saw all these peoples posts about prednisone.
http://www.arthritistoday.org/arthritis-treatment/medications/types-of-drugs/corticosteroids/steroids-heart.php
You all should read article and comments. Now I know for sure where my problems started, but most Dr’s tell me they never heard of it.
Jana
Alabama
Just finished a week’s worth of oral prednisone (40 mg per day) along with three intratympanic perfusions of steroids. By the last day of the oral steroids I felt like I was having an out of body experience — just very, very off — weak and dizzy. Now that I am 2.5 days out from finishing the prescription my main symptom is tingling and numbness, basically all over my body. I have, at times, had problems with tingling and numbness which has been attributed to anxiety, but never as bad as what I am experiencing right now. I was being treated for sudden sensorineural hearing loss and I have had definite improvement in my hearing but still have lots of tinnitus. Between the tinnitus and the tingling I feel like aliens have invaded my body.
Susan
Richmond
I was prescribed 60 mg per day to be taken (2, 1, 1, 2 pills) for tennis elbow. The first night I awoke at 3:50 a.m. and wide awake, the next morning I awoke at 3:50 again and began to get a lower backache that made it difficult to stand. On day 3, I had a reaction of face flushing that lasted for several hours after my after lunch dose; and on day 4, I had a severe reaction after lunch dose that included searing, hot, firebomb in the stomach, face flush, cold sweats, pounding headache in front and back of head, and the inability to get comfortable. The terrible pain in my stomach lasted for an hour, the headache lasted for two days, and my body still doesn’t feel good 3 days later. Needless to say, I stopped taking the prednisone after the day 4 reaction.
This was a case where the tennis elbow pain was preferable to the side effects.
Shelly
Indiana
I was given 35mg of Prednisone with a taper down for 2 weeks due to lung inflammation. Day 2 started racing heart, sweating, tired, multiple panic attacks, high bp, loss of appetite etc. Dr said I could cut the taper in half which I did. It has been 9 days since my last 10mg dose. I still wake up with a racing heart and still feel a little not myself. Dr appt today said bp and heart rate back to normal. I will never take this drug again. It took me a while to find out how long I could even expect to feel a little better thanks to this website. I just wanted to let people know there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Jan
Palm Bay, FL
I have Ulcerative Colitis, which first started about 30 years ago. As I get older, my flare-ups are down to 1 or 2 a year. I take Lialda every day. However, the only medication that halts the flare-up and stops the bleeding has been Prednisone. While I don’t like the side-effects (insomnia, moon-face, weight gain, flatulence), I really don’t like the bleeding and uncontrollable bowel movements that I have with every flare-up of UC! I start out with 20mg twice a day of Prednisone for up to a month, then take about 3 months to wean down to none. I’ve had all of the regular side-effects, and many of the irregular ones, but I’ve learned to cope. I know I really get hungry, so I eat a lot of celery! I limit myself to 3 small meals a day. I take a sleeping pill to combat the insomnia. I’ve been doing this for so many years it’s become routine. Unfortunately, no one has come up with a CURE for UC, so I’m stuck with this routine.
CJ
Kansas
This is great to hear! I was looking for someone who had a similar condition. I was diagnosed with Colitis then 6 months later Colitis and Ileitis, and now its full blown Crone’s. I cant afford the medication I need (Humira) so I am going to have to start the Prednizone again because so far its the only thing that helps. I am to the point I don’t mind the weight gain as long as the pain stops. lol
Maria
AR
On the way to AZ for vacation, I broke out from Poison OAK! The AZ Dr had no clue what I had but I knew because I’ve had it before. He prescribed Prednisone and Hydroxyzine instead of one simple steroid shot!!! I’ve only taken the Prednisone a few days but was told to take 2 tablets twice a day for 5 days. There’s NO way I could have done that!!
I have gotten very aggravated and mean, have a very dry mouth, roof of mouth feel strange, and loss of appetite. I stopped taking them a few days ago (I have 8 left) and the first day I was so out of it. A lot of confusion and really strange feeling. I do not like it. Will NOT take another one. Dr’s are crazy for prescribing this and not discussing the side effects!!
Beatrice U
United States
I was given pred 20 mg. I am now in a lot of pain all over, with my joints hurting like crazy. I have aches every where, my fingers and hands neck back legs ankles feet just in pain everywhere wrists. I was given this med for l3 l4 and l5 herniated discs. Helpppp! My mom was taking it for Sjorgens syndrome and she gained 100 pounds, had vision problems and problems walking falling and in a lot of pain everywhere.
Rhadona
ABQ
2 weeks ago I went to the ER after having a migraine for 3 days straight. After a CT scan I was prescribed 20mg of Prednisone 2 times daily for a nasty sinus infection. I had never taken it before, knew nothing about steroids and was not given ANY possible side effect warnings by the Dr. or the pharmacist.
I took this for 7 days and upon the 8th day I started believing I was truly going insane. I felt like I was outside of my body. I felt like I was in a balloon attached to my body by a tiny thread and it was a windy day. I felt like I was barely holding on to reality. My feet and hands are numb and tingling. I can feel my heart beat throughout my body and I swear I can hear my hair growing! Then can the tactile hallucinations… I feel like I have no control of my body and found myself having to remind myself to chew and swallow and breath.
The wind blowing on my skin felt like I was in a stinging sand storm. In fact all of my senses are off, either heightened or dulled. I am a teacher and I could swear my students were even coloring extra loud in class the last 3 days! My vision was blurry with light auras around objects, I thought my fiancé looked like an actual angel last night standing in the doorway with the hall light behind him.
My face looks very swollen and round and my neck, shoulders and the right side of my face is covered in small itchy bumps that resemble acne. And now out of the clear blue sky I am coughing and feeling very congested in my chest. I was worried to talk to my Dr., for fear of being “locked up.” As I was determined that this must be what it feels like to truly go insane.
Luckily I have a supportive honey who made me go anyway this afternoon. I now know it’s the Prednisone… and I just need to wait for it to leave my system. It would have been nice to have known about these side effects before hand, at least I wouldn’t have been so frightened.
Hilary
Minnesota
Have you started feeling better yet? My issue started around the same time as yours and I am still feeling off, plus had to be put on blood pressure meds and Potassium due to the reaction to the steroid.
I have the same heightened sensory issue. When watching television, I swear I can hear the camera people making noise in the background. I hear everything in my house starting and stopping and unfortunately feel everything also. Is that the same experience you are having?
Teresa
Bellville South Africa
I have been on Prednisone for nearly a year. I have Sjogrens disease. For the time I have been on this medication I have not been myself. My doctor did not warn me to take Immune supplements and Calcium. With failing doing this I landed up in hospital a couple of months after starting on a very high dosage of 40mg. I had an abscess in my mouth.
I was told in hospital by another specialist that I should stop this medication after which the dosage was lowered. But I was minutes away from death and 3 days in ICU. I had panic attacks after that and on Anti-depressants now for 3 months. I am not sure if all this is worth it. I have to take all these medications and supplements but my mouth is rotting up. Even the visits to my dentist has not helped. And I had an abscess again after the incident with the ICU. The Sjogrens came to light as of severe swelling of my glands. I am asking myself if this medication is all worth it. My face don’t look nice…. my teeth look like a drug addicts mouth and I have thrush a lot of the time. And I am getting very hot flushes. Please advise.
RNG
I’d like to send my thanks, and gratefulness to those who took time out of their day to share their own personal experiences, so others may be for warned of these clear pros & cons; that it seems most are not disclosed from their said health care professionals until sadly after the fact.
After having an allergic reaction (that was both painful, and bizarre for lack of a better term) from another medication only a month ago; only having taken the medication for 3, maybe 4 days before the symptoms started. I also had not been given any warning of possible side effects, until I was already experiencing them. I was prescribed PREDNISONE (3 20mg tablets daily, for 3 days) just yesterday. I was restless all night. This morning I felt in sort of a daze, now in the afternoon I feel very moody, snappy.
I’m aware that it could just be the fact that I haven’t been sleeping very soundly due to coughing my head off thru-out the night. Maybe it’s possible I’m just being a worry wort because of the last bad experience I had only A few weeks ago? In any event, I was hoping to shed some more light on my questions and concerns, so i better understand what I’ve learned thus far.
1. I’ve read in several statements that this medication should NEVER be abruptly stopped, but rather tapered off. However, the way it has been prescribed to me makes no mention or attempt to do so. Should I be concerned about this?
2. I am also using an inhaler, which is another type of steroid. Can this increase my risk of suffering one or more of the side effects mentioned? Or even make them worse?
3. After reading the entries above, and gathering most of those who suffered side effects where at a lower dosage then myself, for example: 2 20mg tablets daily, one I read being prescribed different doses each day (the dose being increased & decreased from one day to the next). But I concluded that at least 2 20mg tablets daily is believed to be high a dose? And so does the level of dosage have an effect on the severity of your symptoms? And should I be concerned that my dose may be too high at 3 20mg tablets a day, & there for putting me at higher risk?
4. Since I was seen yesterday for cold/flu like symptoms, they’ve only gotten worse. Coughing uncontrollably, wheezing, shortness of breath, congestion. Today I can barely breath, only able to take short shallow breaths and trying to talk, stand or walk makes it worse. I become dizzy and very winded trying to catch my breath. I’m not sure if my symptoms are just peeking and they will start to subside tomorrow, or the medication is having a negative effect and I should go back into my doctor???
ANY comments/ advice would be gratefully taken and appreciated. Better to be armed with information & knowledge, then to be rendered defenseless because you were only given only part-truths to start with & failed seek out the whole truths (the PROS & the CONS) ;) thank you.
ELLIE S.
WI
I was first diagnosed with asthma 25 yrs ago at age 26. Since then I’ve been on various doses of prednisone, including IV, for varying amounts of time. I have experienced prednisone side effects that have went away and some that have stayed (including needing cataract surgery at 45 yro)!
The steroids in inhalers go straight to your lungs, so you will not experience those side effects. IV’s and pills go throughout your bloodstream and this is what can result in side effects.
If you are on the pills for a short time, probably less then a month, you usually won’t see many side effects other then the insomnia, irritability, possible depression upon withdrawal, things that are gone a few days after tapering down. IV prednisone is a totally different story. One time I gained 25 pounds in a freaking WEEK when I was hospitalized with the IV.
The average “bear” will go up to 40mg & be off them in 7-10 days. I’ve been on 80 mg before for several months. Yes, it definitely affected me psychologically & physically. I got strange illnesses I’d never had, I got the round “moon face” and gained about 30 lbs of fat concentrated around the midsection, very moody, irritable, etc etc. I had this happen to me every fall for yrs because of my allergies and asthma. No Dr ever told me that the reason you must taper down after taking them a few days is because if you stop abruptly, it can shut down all your major organs and freaking KILL YOU!! Oy VEH!
I learned the most about it reading the side effects sheet I got from the pharmacy upon filling it and on the net.
So at 20mg 3X a day, you may have very few side effects other then the ones most common here. It all depends on how long you’re on them and I would def talk to your Dr about that. Also, I don’t care what they say, I always taper down.
The prednisone most definitely has saved my life when I had pneumonia and broke up my congestion when others things had failed. But it has also given me some permanent side effects. I HATE IT!! I did want to tell you that it may take a cpl days to get in your system and work. It definitely helps with wheezing and chest congestion in pneumonia even when it feels like you have a weight on your chest.
I would have posted sooner, but just found this site tonight. I really cannot believe that medical science has not come up with something better. When I first had my asthma, I had a 22 yro very healthy & athletic friend that took prednisone for a brain tumor. By lowering his immune system, the prednisone killed him!!
Always ask for something different if you can get it.
Healthy blessings to all!!
JFKE
Was given mega dose of prednisone to take a day ahead of a CT scan because I reported a reaction years ago to the IV dye used. I’ve been having terrible attacks of night sweats, sleeplessness, anxiety, heart pounding, cold feet, elevated BP and feel like I’m going to explode.
How can the medical profession do no harm if they don’t inform the patient ahead of time of the possible side effects? And how can my PCP have no clue on what is going on with me when I complain of these symptoms?
Now how long do I have to wait for these attacks to pass? I’m so lucky I have Xanax on hand to take last night or else I would have erupted at home!
ga
is anyone out there with churg strauss syndrome?
Elaine P.
I’ve got it and also Wegener’s. Was in kidney failure before it was finally diagnosed. Luckily I recovered and am currently in remission but I have to give blood every month to be sure nothing is flaring. I didn’t want to take strong immune suppressant meds. After finally getting off prednisone, I occasionally have to take it for breathing problems. It got so bad my skin would peel off like an onion if I bumped into anything.
Jay P
My brother has a severe allergic reaction to something and came out with hives and swelling all over his body. He was prescribed 5mg of Prednisolone to take 8tablets for three days by hospital staff. There was no warning on the medication and no follow up or tapering.
He must have stopped taking the tablets as I found the box in his room with a days dose left in it. My brother dies two weeks after stopping his medication, he stayed out late, didn’t call home, was disorientated, vomiting, faint and he was hit by a train.
I didn’t realise he was taking such a dangerous drug, we dint realise that he had stopped taking it and didn’t have any guidance on weaning off it or a follow up from the hospital. All this is being looked into now but it’s too late for his family. My brother was not the type of person to not call home or not make it home.
He was an Accountant, sensible, level headed and easy going. There were no signs of him being depressed or wanting to die. The CCTV footage shows him struggling to walk properly, needing to sit down, holding his stomach. I believe this drug affected my brother. I think it’s dangerous and should be prescribed under supervision and monitored.
Please use this medication carefully as it effects people to very different degrees x
William
I agree with the side effects above. I get and got of lot of them.
But… The 32 pages of stuff the pharmacy puts in the bag with the prescription talks about the side effects although not easy to understand. Read it.
Billie Marie glover
Not sure what this means. U pick
barb
Prednisone has majorly screwed my life up! I was having back spasms and trying to get things done for my daughter’s wedding, so I asked the dr for something to help with the pain. She prescribed prednisone. That was about 1 wk before the wedding. Then my legs, ankles and feet swelled up HUGE, where I could hardly get shoes on and my skin was so tight I thought it’d tear. I felt like there was a lump in my throat or something suffocating me and was short of breath. I am type 2 diabetic and it also raised my blood sugars.
I couldn’t figure out what was going on and couldn’t stand all the swelling. I finally went to the dr (my regular dr) this week and my a-fib had kicked back in. When I really got to thinking, it has been a domino effect. The prednisone raised my sugars, which I have found can cause swelling too, and the raised sugars have a tendency to kick my afib into action. My heart rate was 156! I haven’t been eating much at all to try and keep the sugar levels down. I am a mess and just want this med out of my body!!
MB
Yes. I get u. Felt amazing to not hurt. Ever figure out why?
J.P.A.
I was bitten by one wasp, but on my eyelid. I got some hives and the eye became almost shut. So, this time I went to the ER. My throat was fine, but they said take this Prednisone 20mg for 4 days.
I’ve had dozens of wasp bites over the decades, always healed up well (on my own, little benadryl)
It’s just not necessary, you can heal from somethings on your own. I’ve slept all day and feel totally out of it. I’m not taking anymore. The docs with the drug companies over prescribe these things. Be Well.
lewis
I have been prescribed prednisone for sudden hearing loss in Jan 2013 , Jun 2011 and Sep 2008 each time my hearing has been restored to normal and had no side affects after the taper. UNTIL Sunday past . My same dosage of 10 * 5 for 2 days , 8 *5 2 days , 6 * 5 2 days , 4 * 5 2 says and then 1 * 5 2 days .
Into last week for the first time in 7 years my anxiety and panic attacks returned. I had been anxiety free for 7 years and have even managed to get my paxil to 5mg Mon,Wed,Friday for the past 2 years with no side affects.
All I know is now I am suffering big time with the anxiety and not sleeping and pacing the house at night time. My ear never even got unblocked but hearing is fine this time so I probably didnt even need the prednisone prescribed this time and it was another issue.
All I know is had I researched the side affects prior I never would have gone back onto it and now from what I see some people have lasting anxiety for up to 7 months after finishing prednisone. Went to my gp for a checkup today and told him what happened all he said was get a phycologist. Not much help .
Just wanted to say thanks to all who share as knowing I am not alone is half the battle towrads my struggle to get back to who I used to be and stop being a burdon on my wife who is worrying about me all the time.
Lew
SFD
I have COPD. I am 64 years old and have had severe allergies, asthma, nasal polyps all my life. I also have very high eosinophils. I have to take steroids all the time. Every time I take a tapered dose prescribed by my doctor, it won’t be 4 or 5 weeks until I am back on the prednisone. I am so sick of it, I could yell.
I have had sinus surgery 6 times to remove the nasal polyps or growths in my nose caused by the allergies. If it was not for prednisone, I would be dead today. I have had many close to death situations with my breathing. I have an allergy doctor, a ear, nose and throat doctor and a lung specialist as well. They all agree that there is nothing else they can do. I am on Advair 500 twice a day, nebulizer breathing treatments, allergy meds, also. I expect to hear them say any time now that I need to be on oxygen all the time. I don’t like to take the steroids, but I have to and there comes all the awful side effects every time.
While I was cooking supper this evening, I had one of my worst “roid rages” ever. I just wish I could get better. Good luck to all of you who have to take the dreaded prednisone. God bless all of you.
M.C. Chang
I went to a clinic in Taiwan cos of coughs and sneezing, and the doc prescribed me this… which I don’t know why.
But after taking 2 days (8 times) I felt really moody, weak, shaking, sleepless, rage… etc
and then I googled n found out about it..
Just why would a doc give me this.. for a minor cold…..
But please don’t take this thing, I felt horrible and I was on the edge of wanting to beat people up, and I went angry at my bestest friend, which I never did and I had no idea why.
LML
I took Prednisone 500mg in December 2011 when I had my first relapse of MS that required treatment. This time I am having a moderate to severe relapse and I have been prescribed 1250mg for 3 days. I take 50mg tabs x 15 in the morning with breakfast then ten more at lunch. Today was my first day of the three day treatment and the only side effect I seem to be having is severe pain in my hips. I know this is something that has to be monitored because this high a dose can cause hip issues. I will see tonight how well I sleep, if at all. Last time I had insomnia for seven days.
LML
I have RR-MS and have taken both high dose prednisone and solumedrol. The first time I had a relaspe requiring treatment in December 2011 I was given prednisone 500mg daily x 3 days. Other then not sleeping for 7 nights, I faired well with no side effects to mention and all my symptoms disappeared after the first dose. The next time in May 2012 I decided to try solumedrol 1gm daily x 3 days I had the metallic taste in my mouth and insomnia, but not as bad.
Unfortunately it did not get rid of all my symptoms. My strength did return in my right leg, but I still had and have neuropathic pain in my right foot. My neurologist would not give me anymore for worry of my hips. I suffered with the neuropathic pain in my foot for 9 months until they found a medication that I tolerated well and it worked. Still had some pain, but tolerable, my foot didn’t feel like it was in a pot of boiling oil.
Unfortunately I am suffering with another moderate to severe relapse with decreased strength, sensation and increased tingling/burning in my right leg from my foot to just below my knee. This time I opted for high dose prednisone that allowed me to go away for the weekend.
Today I started prednisone 1250mg in a divided dose x 3 days. I take 15 tabs x 50mg at breakfast and the other 10 tabs at lunch. The tablets have a very bitter taste that caused me to gag twice at breakfast, but I got them all down, and much better at lunch. I am experiencing some hip pain that I have to monitor. If it gets worse I am to go to the hospital. Since today was day 1 I will see tonight if I sleep.
Ke
I was given IV steroids in hospital for severe Crohn’s flare while 14 weeks pregnant, switched to 6 weeks of oral prednisolone on tapered dose starting at 30 mg when out of hospital. I have to say it was a life-saver for me- felt instantaneously better almost the same night I was started on the IV steroids- pain went, fatigue & diarrhoea instantly went. Oral pred made me feel amazing- superhuman, so much energy, I got so much done while on them & was constantly thinking ahead-planning my next six activities. I got so much done!
Didn’t mind the insomnia or getting up at 4am as didn’t need the sleep. Felt like a different person, while the previous 3 months I had been a tired and spaced out zombie- not realising how ill I was until I was referred to hospital after abnormal blood tests. My crohn’s was so severe my consultants wanted to operate, even while I was pregnant, but the steroids meant they could control it and reduce the inflammation without the risk of miscarriage that surgery would have posed. Yes I felt hungry all the time but that was quite good for the baby as previous 3 months of pregnancy I had had no appetite and lost weight. Eating lots was great for me and I found it fun (good excuse to pig out!) and anyway it stops when you stop the steroids.
I noticed a change physically on about 10 mg steroids and since stopping completely a week ago I have felt progressively fatigued to the point where I can hardly look after myself, let alone my toddler. Feel very moody, emotional and irritable. Legs ache. Bad sciatica (although I had that before so possibly unrelated to steroids.) Acne on face. I am not sure whether it is withdrawal from the steroids or the disease activity (ie how I would feel anyway had I not been on anything) but my inflammatory markers are so much better thanks to the steroids and I am feeling tireder than ever, so have to conclude it is probably withdrawing from the steroids. My consultant has put me back on 15mg of steroids thinking it is the disease activity, and is hoping to use it as a bridge until immunosuppressants kick in. I’m hoping this brings the energy back & moods stabilise.
This drug helps many people with serious conditions and it is essential to controlling their condition. But it is very potent. Yes long-term I am sure it can cause serious side-effects. But if you are prescribed a short course for a necessary condition, the benefits for most people far outweigh the drawbacks, and in my own experience, to get it in proportion, the moodiness is far less than PMS and no where near major depression or even the depression of chronic disease all of which I have experienced. Even the fatigue of withdrawal is no worse than the disease at its worst, and at least I don’t have the pain or diarrhoea of my uncontrolled disease, which could also kill my baby. So for me the effects outweigh the minor side effects.
I know everyone is different and may react differently – my consultant said steroids either cause depression & moodiness or euphoria & mania, neither of which are completely healthy. But please get it in proportion- even if you have a bad reaction, it doesn’t last forever (that’s why they don’t keep you on them for long) and in my case the euphoria was great-like taking speed I imagine! And far better than the uncontrolled disease. So if you have been prescribed steroids, please don’t be scared off taking them by some of these stories-I imagine they represent a minority of extreme and rare reactions or people who are unlucky enough to have to take them long-term at relatively high doses. Make sure you taper off slowly, and by all means ask your dr lots of questions, but I doubt many doctors would prescribe them unless strictly necessary, and will prescribe the lowest dose possible.
Mjd
Hi, just a comment about my experience with solu-medroyl for treatment of rrms. I had a 3 day iv treatment of this type 4 years ago and again this week. I have had minimal side effects both times, fortunatly! I did get the metal taste in my mouth, achy, tired then burst of energy, flushed hot skin, stomach cramping, clumsiness, aggitation, insomnia for the 2nd and 3rd day, but the treatment has already taken away the ms symptoms that the treatment was meant for. Its not a pleasant reaction but if it helps me get back on my daily routine after this week…its worth it!!! I also think this type of quick type of treatment opposed to long time pill use is the better way to go. Id ask your doctors to try this type of treatment before long time use, if your medically able.
VMC
I only took it for two days as I was going insane on it. I had arm twinges for a week or so. I will never take it, again, unless it is a matter of life or death. I feel badly for people who have to take it for a long period of time.
TW
my arm felt like it had no strength at all for a while after I took it as well lasted a week or so.
Renee
I recently went to a walk in urgent care and they informed me that I had an inner and outer ear infection, (very painful, and vertigo every day). They put me on a ZPack, antibiotic ear drops and 3 days of prednisone. After taking the prednisone 2 days I got this severe pain in my right breast, like a severe to the touch bruise, and my right arm felt and still feels like I have been lifting weights or something, it hurts and just no strength. Is this due to the prednisone? My pharmacists says no, but it started while taking prednisone. How long till it stops?
VMC
Went to the ER after being bitten by yellow jackets. Given Prednisone in the IV, then a prescription for 60mg-40-20 for six days.
Took 30 mg the first day, after the hospital, then started the next morning with 30 mg. Within two hours the hives were back,the breathing labored and the BP was all over the place. ER told me to continue taking them, as did the pharmacist. It was only when I called my GP that I was told to stop taking them as these were possible side effects. Had horrible panic, sleeplessness, stomach pains and constipation. I should have just stayed with the anti histamine after leaving the hospital. This is the first 24 hours since the 2 nd dose, still can’t sleep, racing heart and fluctuating BP. No more for me.
Cf
Unfortunatley, I have to take prednisone any time I have a bad asthma attack. I have almost died and was on 95% assist with a ventilator for 3 weeks in my twenties. I am in my counties now. It is an awful drug! But it is the price I have to pay to breathe. I know all of the symptoms and have had to maintain for over a period of 6 years total.
I just got married and adopted a young girl. I started on Monday taking again because of a bad attack. So here is what I do. This is to ease their anxiety and to warn them that I will become dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde. I have a pile of books next to my bed to read at night. I warn my family of the uncontrollable pain, irritability, crankiness.
It helps some what but glad to know others have the same thing, my doctors are not to helping with the side effects. Maybe because they have not taken them.
Good luck, :)
j.z.
I am so sorry to hear the effects of prednisone on so many. I must be the only person who has had a great experience with it. Five days of 40mg once per day. I even took it at night instead of in the morning, and I was a little wired but slept well. I wasn’t told to taper, but I sure missed taking it because it made me feel like a functioning, lively human being for the first time in decades. They won’t give me more… I asked. I don’t feel any worse than I did before but I still am allergic to things I can’t avoid and I exist with my body acting like a giant bee sting. I’m all swollen up without it, lost all the puffiness while on it. … Sad.
MT
Hey guys, I wanted to make this post to give you guys he truth about what I have experienced, because I understand just hearing other stories doesn’t always help.
I had tonsillitis, was put on Prednisone 20 mg – 40 mg -60 mg then down for swelling for 14 days.
The 7th day I got really foggy.
The 9th day I became very depressed and anxious, it was one of the worst periods of time I have ever experienced.
I went to the urgent care, and told them the way I was feeling because I was out of town.
At this point I was going down from it and was on 40 mg( 2 20 mg)
They told me to take one then stop (20mg)
There was not a serious withdrawal, as it made it a lot easier knowing the doctor told me it was going to get better.
It was rough, but after 4-5 days, I was back to normal, felt way better.
If you are already off, stick through it, at least from my experience, it will get better in a short period of time.
Thanks
Alisha
My mother was put on this when I was 12. She became a crazy woman on this stuff! She became abusive, gained a ton of weight, lost her sense of taste and smell. She was so miserable on this crap. It was so much worse than what she had been sick with!
AG
Prednisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid medication. It is a life saver and a very useful tool in dealing with allergic reactions and other inflammatory conditions.
Doctors should prescribe this carefully, reviewing each patient’s other conditions and medications. If you are not asked to provide this information, advocate for yourself by telling the prescribing doctor your medical history and list of current meds. And be sure you are given detailed instructions on how to take the medication.
Usually you can take the whole daily dose in the morning which minimizes difficulty sleeping at night. Prednisone should be tapered off gradually, never stopped abruptly.
Tony I
I was recently prescribed Prednisone 20mg for the ringing in my ears. After reading all these comments I am very skeptical using this drug.
Barbara M.
I have just come from the doctor and was prescribed almost Identical to you. Prednisone 9 days 10mg 3 3 days 2 3days 1 3days. Plus, Ipratoprium Bomide and Albuterol Sulfate inhaler plus Levofloxacin. Same systems as yours. Not sure now if I should take the Prednisone after reading all the reports.
How has it affected you and did it cure your Bronchial Condiatio?
H.
After approximately ten years of Prednisone at 20mg a day I could not taper off! I would get very sick and my joints would go crazy with pain and swelling (I have RA). After much research I read that Magnesium could help me get off of Prednisone! I found a liquid magnesium spray that can be applied to skin. I used the spray several times a day (5 to 10), maybe 3 sprays at each use. I WAS OFF PREDNISONE IN TEN DAYS!!!! What a relief. I will never use it again. I have been completely Prednisone free for about ten days. I continue oral Magnesium. My only side effect is that I’m very tired! Maybe I will go back onto the spray for another month. Good luck!
P.T.
I went on 40mg of pred. a month ago. my doctor did not prescribe me to wean off of it. I decided to do that myself. I have to agree with some people. I had this great energy! I cleaned, I cooked, I was in a euphoric la la land. I felt like my old self again! It has been YEARS since I had felt this way! Now that I am weaning myself off, I feel horrible! So tired. Just wanna sit on the couch and do nothing.
Mind you I hated the steroids. Acne, hungry constantly, hair loss, hair growth, etc…. I only have 4 days left of 5mg. I can’t imagine when I am completely off of it. Its a good and bad thing. I just wish my doctor had given me more info. Also that he would have told me to wean off sooner. I shouldn’t have to find out for myself. What am I paying them for? I am just glad I can vent to people that understand.
Danielle
I had severe back pain. I could only walk to the bathroom and the kitchen. Even laying in bed caused significant pain. I finally went to the doctor and he prescribed 50 mg/day of prednisone for 5 days. He said that if the pain was decreased that he would know that my pain was caused by an inflamed disk and would also know that a steroid shot would be effective in the future.
I have taken prednisone in the past because of lung infections. I knew I would be sleepless for five days. When I took the first dose I felt like superman. I felt like I could run 100 miles and I wanted to climb mountains. The pain in my back was cut in half. I also knew that my back was not better but that I was feeling the effects of the prednisone. I was more edgy and easily agitated. Since I knew this would happen, I watched my temper. I was able to sit up for 3-4 hours at a time because the pain was decreased.
I was only able to sit up for 5 minutes before the prednisone. I only needed 4-6 hours of sleep when usually I REQUIRE 8-10 hours of sleep. I also was very hungry. The reason why I came to this page is because I stopped taking the prednisone 4 days ago. The second day I stopped taking the prednisone, I felt as if I was getting the flu. My body hurt to the touch. My muscles and skin hurt. I took some ibuprofen and the symptoms went away.
The third day after I stopped taking prednisone all of the muscles on the back side of my body hurt like I had only used them to run 5 miles. I had to have a family member keep massaging my legs, back, and neck for hours. They kept cramping. Today, day 4 after stopping prednisone, I feel that my heart is racing, bounding, and or skipping beats. I can’t really describe the feeling. I took my blood pressure and it was normal. My heart rate is also normal.
I feel very anxious but I also feel very sleepy. I tried sleeping but I keep waking up because of the feeling in my chest, anxiety. The pain in my back has returned but pain is 3/4 less severe as it was before. I am also having graphic war dreams. I have never been to war but I keep dreaming about bloody war.
I have also experienced a few minutes of high ringing in my ears since I have been on and since stopped taking prednisone. The left half of my scalp will slightly go numb for an hour daily. I think these symptoms are odd but I am not freaking out because I know they will go away. I just thought I would share my experience so others do not feel that they are going crazy. The drugs we put in our body do effect us!!
sensible patient
I simply do not understand these comments. I feel bad for the hopelessness among patients but I now understand why doctors are so afraid of patients. Do some research. Ask questions. You’re the patient! Prednisone is a STEROID and these are all side effects associated with steroids: higher appetite, night sweats, dependency. This is why a prescription is typically given with a tapered dose. It works really well for patients and yes, I wasn’t happy about sleeping on a towel but as a stimulant, it will increase your heart rate and speed up your metabolism.
Don’t blame the drug for doing exactly what it’s meant to do. You can take alternative steroids but they will still have some sort of side effects. What mattered most to me was that my lungs were healed! I was on pred for pneumonia. I took it for 5 weeks.
Was it pleasant? Not exactly but the alternative was remaining hospitalized or worse, death. If you have a history of mental illness, you have to inform your doctor and check for any counteractions.
Jenny
I have been suffering from a severe sinus infection for the last 2 months. My doctor prescribed a HEAVY dose of Prednisone. I was taking 60 MG a day for the first 4 days. I was given NO WARNING about the possible side effects by my doctor. It is now 5 days later, and I have just returned from a 2 day stay in a mental hospital. I started getting angry and agitated, then eventually I hallucinated (giant spiders crawling up the wall and dissipating into thin air, wolves snarling at me in the patterns on the cabinetry, words in my book growing little feet and skittering off the pages), and eventually began seeing a repeated image of myself with a noose around my neck jumping of my second story deck.
I had been alone at home and decided that I needed to admit myself, because I wasn’t sure what was real anymore. By the time I got to the hospital, I was deathly afraid of my own voice. I felt that if I let it out, my head would explode. THIS DRUG SHOULD NOT BE GIVEN TO ANYONE WITHOUT GIVING THEM PROPER KNOWLEDGE ABOUT POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. I am currently tapering the dose down, and still feel “wrong”, but at least I know why. This has been the most absolutely nightmarish thing I have EVER GONE THROUGH.
Sara
I was given prednisone through an IV for really bad hives, I felt better until I started taking the oral dose prescribed. I was a lunatic, I had crazy anxiety, heart palpitations, night sweats, etc.. So I call my sister the trauma nurse thinking something had gone totally wrong with this med and she very casually says “oh that’s just a side effect, you should’ve seen mom when she took it, she was trying to mow lawn at 9 at night!” … uh ya that’s awesome that my mom also lost her mind as well but what the hell, feeling like losing my mind does not equate to my body healing.
So I stopped taking them and researched “eating for your adrenals” and I went on a strict no gluten no sugar no grains diet. I’m almost on the Paleo diet but I’m in this for my health not getting ripped at Crossfit, so I’m not a Paleo freak- The diet has worked, I actually feel better than before I took the stupid pill, and I’ve lost 10lbs in 3 weeks. I encourage anyone feeling like poo from this pill to research “eating healthy for your adrenal glands”.
Elle W
I have had two Prednisone regimens in my life, both around the same time for severe contact dermatitis. I had the standard, tapered 7 day course, and my rash went away as promised. The other course I had was 12 days if i remember correctly.
The only negative side effects I had were muscle weakness and shortness of breath. Going up just one flight of stairs, for example, would leave me short of breath. While I do have mild asthma, it has never been that bad, even during a major allergic episode, so I am pretty sure the Prednisone caused the bulk of that. I sing in a choir, and I had difficulty controlling my breath– it was like the muscles in my body, especially around my gut, turned to jelly. I also experienced some vertigo, and felt a bit “disconnected” from my body at times.
Prednisone worked pretty well for me, and besides these small side effects, which went away once the regimen was over, I did not have any other negative reactions.
NGailSheck
Me, too :(
It is making me crazy!
Johnny America
I have read all the horror stories, I’m not sure what to say other than each person is different. I was involved in a serious MVA and six months later a nearly fatal motorcycle accident. Needless to say, I have had multiple surgeries. I live in pain, but once every other month my doctor allows me to take a 9 day prednisone cycle. I honestly live for those cycles. Those are happy, pain free weeks! I always feel like a million bucks.
One thing my doctor does is she tapers me all the way down to 2.5mg before I stop. I admit the 2-3 days afterwards I normally feel a bit fatigued and will sometimes have a low grade fever and headaches, but to have over 8-9 days of pain free bliss, I consider it well worth it. I wonder how many people who call this medicine horrible names are living a life with chronic pain. That may also be the difference, the side effects at the end of the cycle seem so minor compared to my life of pain. I THANK GOD for PREDNISONE. It gives me relief every 60 days and a great deal of happiness during the cycles.
Some people have very good results and a few like me feel it’s a wonder drug.
Christina
My Doctor put me on prednisone take 3 tablets twice a day for two days, 2 tablets twice a day for two days, 2 tablets daily for two days and 1 tablet a day for 2 days.
Does anybody know about this??? This my first time taking this medication.
Jim e.
Bristol,tn
I was prescribed prednisone 80 mg per day for IBD (ulcerative colitis) by UVA GI dept. I promptly,and with no warning) had both of my hips collapse and crippled me(1975). Emergency total hip implants had to replace my natural hips and they have been severely painful (10 level) all the time.I had just started my job as Internal Medical physician in 1975 when my hips were destroyed.I had just gotten married and had new baby. Now unemployed because of prednisone and severely crippled- the steroid caused loss of job, home, marriage,children.I was given no warning by anyone that this drug could do so much damage, even diabetes caused by prednisone, now hopelessly destitute and bankrupt.
Jay
Prednisone gets a bad rap but it is a life-saving drug. Sure it does have varying side-effects. But I’d rather have to deal with the effects than be 5 feet under. I had a brush with Anaphylaxis and nearly died. If it wasn’t for steroids in general, I wouldn’t be around. The side effects are a small price to pay for the chance to live – in my case.
Sara
I posted in Feb 2014 about my experience with prednisone. Since then, I have not been able to return to work and have been in hospital numerous times and now in a rehab facility. Turns out I have 6 vertebral compression fractures! My vascular specialist has told me it’s due to mismanagement of my steroid reduction (that my rheumatologist was supposed to be managing) and because they didn’t have me on enough vitamin d & calcium supplements for my bones!
Prednisone certainly did its job initially, but I am so cranky with my rheumatologist that I won’t be going back to him ever again. I’ll just make the 5 hour trip to see my vascular specialist for anything now I think. For the first 2 months he told me it was just a muscular issue, after being at the hospital with my vascular physician for only 4 days they’d discovered the fractures, started me on a much better pain relief schedule, and started higher doses of supplements. And now I find out I can I only drop the prednisone by 1mg every 2 months or I’ll just go backwards.
Sometimes this drug is what you need to fix a medical issue, but just make sure your doctor doesn’t keep you on a high dose for too long, and starts to taper you down as soon as possible but at the correct rate. I would hate for someone else to go through what I’m going through – I’m 27 and was basically an invalid for about 3 months, and now have god knows how long of physio to get me back on track :(
R
I have asthma and had caught a bad respiratory infection so my medical doctor prescribed prednisone. At that time, I was only on my preventer with puffer. Suddenly, the prednisone produced serious suicide ideation which led to a hospital visit. Thankfully, my dr had me see a psychologist and now my records list prednisone as a severe side effect. In fact, I’m not to be given prednisone unless I receive emergency psychological care simultaneously so I haven’t had it for years and I’m glad.
KWS
Thank God I read this before embarking on my medication which my Doc prescribed today!! the stories are scaring and I can’t dare take this. First thing tomorrow I’ll be at my Doctors door for explanation and alternative medication. Thanks good people for sharing your experiences.
Chelle
I have Lupus and have been taking prednisone for 4 years now. My current dosage is 12.5mg daily. I took 15mg for a year but my heartrate has been over 100 for about 8 months. My rheumatologist said if she didn’t taper the prednisone down to 5mg daily my heart will wear itself out. I am tapering by 2.5mg every 2 weeks until I reach 5mg.
It is definitely a slippery slope. I want to save my heart but I am also scared of the inflammation that will pop up in my body because of the Lupus after decreasing the prednisone.
I have many side effects including moon face, weight gain, fat deposit in stomach and neck, gum and teeth problems, sweating, rapid heartrate, and others.
I am happy to decrease the dosage of prednisone but scared at the same time.
BKB
Most people who know my circumstances say I’m very fortunate to be alive. On 28 Jan this year, I was admitted to the hospital with H1N1 flu and double pneumonia which lead to acute respiratory failure. I was sedated for 1 month and on a ventilator 1 month plus a couple of days. I was in a hospital (3 different ones) for a total of 73 days.
I’ve been home now for 1 month and continue to gain strength and stamina. I’m grateful first to God for sparing my life; and for the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff for their excellent care they afforded me. and also to my insurance company who footed most of the astronomical bill.
Now to the reason for my post. Previously I had been in excellent health. The only meds I have ever taken were vitamins with an occasional Tylenol for minor pain. But now my life has changed and I am taking quite a few medications. And suffer from numerous side effects.
First the meds: Just finished a 5 day regiment of Prednisone 60mg/day. Presently taking Metoprolol Tartrate 25mg and Rampril 5mg for blood pressure; Allopurinol 100mg for elevated uric acid levels; Protonix 40 mg for indigestion; and Ibuprofen 800mg for inflammation and pain. Plus OTC Mucinex DM for congestion and a stool softener.
Now for the side effects: Severe headaches, nausea, minor weight gain, mood swings, and (this concerns me very much) excessive hair loss. I’m familiar with most of the side effects, but the hair loss has got me stumped. Any help regarding my situation would be greatly appreciated.
JK
I was given a 14-day course; first 4 days at 60 mg, then 2 days each of 50, 40, 30, 20 and 10. It was prescribed for a case of poison ivy that had gotten into my eyes and lungs; my swollen eyes required dramatic intervention. The first few days I felt pretty energetic, but nothing out of the ordinary. I was aggressive, and really mean and unreasonable with a few mid-level bureaucrats I feel I should probably send apology notes to. Definitely had some of the belly swelling, but the first dose corresponded with the first day of my period, so who really knows.
However, the very first day of taper, I began to feel a terrible, dragging muscle weakness. I’ve been riding my bike for the last few months instead of my car, so I know how I “normally” feel when I’m running errands or commuting on the bike. On day 5, I had no energy to go anywhere or do anything, and I’ve gotten super sluggish on my bike. I’m on day 7, meaning I’ve already been tapering for 3 days; I’m now starting to crash at work. Right now, this is the pattern: I take it at around 8:30 a.m., run manic through lunch, and then at 1:00 or 2:00 p.m., I get feverish sweats, and just want to crawl out of my skin. I sit in my cubicle dreaming of a cool, dark room with a cool, dark bed in it where I can relax. This is shortly followed by a total crash, where I can barely stay awake. I also am feeling dizzy and kind of spacey, forgetful and just plain kind of gross. It’s the same every day, so I think it must be the effect of the drug and of the taper. I don’t know if maybe the symptoms will change as the dosages change. I hope that things right themselves fairly quickly once I’m totally off.
All in all, I would say that having poison ivy of the lungs and eyes was really scary and pretty unfun, and the prednisone did the job of bringing down the swelling. If my eyes puffed up like that again, I might consider taking prednisone again (only if the side effects clear up quickly for me this time). That said, I would not even consider taking it for anything less than threatening my life or one of my major senses. If a doc tried to prescribe it for poison ivy rash that did not include my eyes/lungs, I would turn that down in a heartbeat. I’d rather dose up on benedryl for a few days than deal with this again.
LRA
I have been taking pred for bad reaction to poison oak. I started at 50mg and have been tapering down by 10mg over the span of 10 days. Pros- I feel FANTASTIC, has given me a sense of euphoria and a ton of energy.
The drawback is that this new found sense of energy makes it hard to sleep. I have been taking one Benadryl tablet an hour before I have to go to bed and I am able to sleep though the night. Cons- I have broken out into a rash on my chest and abdomen as I have been tapering down to the past 2 days of treatment. I have been reading that this might be common when tapering of pred, anyone else have this experience?
RRT
Hi everybody. I’m a Respiratory Therapist and an Asthmatic. Every year since I was a child (I’m 57) I get Bronchitis. I have a regime of steroids, bronchodilators and antibiotics. And the steroid I take is Prednisone. And get shots of Celestone (betamethasone) when in ER. Always get the side effects of fluid retention, insomnia, mood swings and tiredness. But I dance with the Devil because I have to breathe and get back to work.
This time though something has happened. I just took two weeks of steroids for my Bronchitis, heavy dose. I had a hard time with my symptoms and that is why I had a 14 day run. It’s been two weeks since my last hit of pills. And what I’m experiencing is frightening. I have a bad right knee/leg from a car accident years ago. The steroids have affected this leg and not in a good way. I am falling. My leg collapses and I’m hitting the floor. Also am walking with a very bad limp because it hurts more then usual. I have to be totally focused on my walking and where I put my foot or down I go. This is not good as I have fallen where I work. Which is a Children’s Hospital and I am a Supervisor(12 and 16 hr shifts).
I talked to my Dr and he agrees it’s from the steroid use. And hopefully this will resolve itself soon. I have always hated taking steroids but like I said it’s a dance with the Devil because I have to breathe. So yeah steroids can be very dangerous. To those of us with Asthma were damned if we do and dead if we don’t. Sigh.
ab
Prednisone is the drug from hell. I wish I would have researched this drug before ever taking it. Yes, has it helped me for what it was prescribed, but way too many side effects for me to deal with. Your doctor should tell you ALL the side effects you are going to experience BEFORE you take it. I have never, ever experienced anything like this in my life AND I do not ever want to….as we all know all medicine has side effects, however this is the worst medicine I have ever taken in my life!!!! And, now to think CHEMO is needed to get me off this medicine, which again I was not told before I started taking it.
LS
I was prescribed 30 mg a day for 5 days. I take it 15mg twice a day.Not told to taper. I have 30mg left. Should I taper that over the next 2 days. I have only taken 15mg today but am starting to feel very dizzy and very edgy. It was prescribed for severe bronchitis and breathing problem. This is a pretty short term dose so hopefully I wont have bad after effects.
MFB
I’m 63 years old and was diagnosed with tempura arthritis, which if left without treatment could cause a stroke and/or blindness. My doctor started me at 80 mg of prednisone and gave me a tapering schedule that lasted 12 months. Ten months later I’m down to 1 mg per day for 30 more days and 1/2 mg for another 30 days. The prednisone cured my illness within 2 months but I didn’t sleep much for the first 6 months. The initial side effects I had were lack of sleep, erratic fast heart beat shakiness and weight gain.
The side effects changed as I reduced the dosage. I went from not being able to sleep to not being able to get enough sleep. I still lack energy and generally don’t feel like going anything all day, which is so unlike me. I wake up with a headache feeling like I was on a drinking binge the night before and it takes me a couple of hours before I can attempt to do anything that involves me getting off the couch. The shape of my face changed and I have had skin problems that I haven’t had since I was a teen. I feel like I have lost a year out of my life, however, it was still worth taking the prednisone given the potential consequences of doing nothing.
Your doctor should also be prescribing Risedronate if you are on a high dose of Prednisone. Prednisone weakens your bones and the Risedronate helps to prevent this.
donna
OMG my mother has bipolar and was taken off her med for this 2 months ago in the local ER. She had been stable on it for 2 years. We watched her like a hawk, and low and behold she also got diagnosed with recent temporal arteritis and was started on prednisone 60 mg per day x 1 month to titrate by 10 mg every month. She was on the 50 mg per day and had been erratically cleaning her home and throwing things out, when she started to experience severe confusion.
At lst we thought mini stroke, until I realized it could be the prednisone., the drs really didn’t want to hear this. She stayed 12 hrs in the ER with no help and was sent home after trying to blow her nose on a slice of cheese!! 5 hrs later she experienced 7 grand mal seizures!! Back to the ER we went. She got transferred to a better hospital and got good care but developed double aspirational pneumonia on top of it all, and of course tx of choice is prednisone.
The md’s don’t want to deal with taper down dose an constantly pass the buck. She was transferred to a rehab facility today for weakness and no one has started titration until I called MD tonite. I am only a nurse but have enough common sense to understand the outcome of this horrific drug if proper protocol not followed!! She may never regain her old self, but we can only hope and pray she does!
LAM
Have twice taken prednisone for pretty severe bronchitis and no trouble at all! I get a little jumpy, but I still sleep well and am do just fine. Helped with the bronchitis (along w/ a Z Pack). Tapered off no worries. No left over side effects.
Now, if I had to take this long term I’d be much less sanguine, but the 3 to 5 day course isn’t really a big deal and helped a lot. Just take it with food. It’s hard on the stomach and tastes really lousy.
Many drugs have side effects. You need to balance the risks and “rewards” of any drug. As I said, for short term this drug hasn’t done anything bad to me.
bc
Although, I am here because I’m considering Pred for ear and skin condition. I saw your comment and wanted to inform you that possibly it is not the pred that has caused your side effects – it may be the Ciprofloxacin or a combination of both.
Twice I experienced psychotic grief episodes when given Ciprofloxacin following a test procedure. I looked up Ciprofloxacin and found that others have had this side effect too. Mind you it was not a minor grief episode, it was deep grief as if someone near and dear had passed away. I will not take Ciprofloxacin ever again! Also, Ciprofloxacin can cause chronic joint issues too.
Joe
Alex,
My teen son was given a high dose of steroids for 3 days (1000mg = 1g) in order to reset the body from an autoimmune disease. Now he is on a gradual taper dose (20mg twice a day). It is day 4 from when the high dose ended and I can tell you that the side effects he is experiencing are: sore muscles and weakness (he has a hard time picking up a full 1-gal water jug), has a hard time getting out of bed, extreme fatigue & slowness. It takes a lot of effort for him to get off the couch or to get in the car.
Is it normal to feel this way after such treatment? I just hope and pray it is the road to recovery.
I would appreciate your input. Thanks
RA H.
Prednisone for me has been a miracle life saving drug. I am 73, was diagnosed with severe RA 6 years ago. The next two years all of the standard RA drugs were tried with minimal control of my joint pain and swelling. A biologic drug was Rx. After 3 doses, I developed sudden onset of shortness of breath and a heart rate of 140 per minute. Interstitial Lung Disease was diagnosed… possibly caused by methotrexate, the biologic drug or? I received 50 mg of prednisone daily for close to 9 months, (every time a tapering was tried my heart rate shot up).
It was gradually tapered down to 10 mg a day. I also received cyclophosphamide for two years. The treatment worked, my last Lung CT scan revealed no progression of the ILD. I have continued on 10 mg prednisone daily for control of RA since I have had an adverse reaction to all other DMARDs. I will probably be on it forever! I take it every morning with a big bowl of oatmeal… never had any GI upset. Yes, I developed prednisone induced cataracts, glaucoma, osteoporosis, a moon face, buffalo hump, insomnia, some weight gain, that said… it sure beats the alternative!!! Thank you Prednisone. I am grateful to be so well.
lk
It is amazing to read here that people taking Prednisone are not told to taper over a verrrryy long period of time. Anything less will have dismal effects on your body. Your adrenal glands do not produce naturally while you are on pred, and the pred must be tapered VERRRYYY slowly to allow the adrenals to kick back into production. Take it easy on the reduction. Like 1 mg a week tops. My own body does not like the reduction and I get GI problems for a day. Get more pred if you need to to help the slow taper, it is cheap. Take it in the morning after a meal. It is an upper so you will not sleep if you take it at night. You can take Tylenol for pain while on Pred.
DP
Hi Mary, I am experiencing the same problems you had… I was prescribed prednisone for an sinus infection… Additionally, I have shakes and tremors and can not sleep at all. I consumed only (3) 20mg gram pills. How long did these conditions last for you is my question to you?
Josephine
I’m going through a similar situation. How long until the side effects of prednisone go away? Do you recover your muscle tone? How long was it for you to be right? How has your skin recovered? Regards
sak
I took prednisone for 1 week. I don’t know why I blindly obeyed my doctor! never again!!!!
worst week ever! horrible headache everyday, very bad mood, followed by heart rate increase! and severe abdominal pain and nausea. He could have just told me to take more ibuprofen!!! I will ALWAYS do my research beforehand from now on!!!
LadyChuckles
I would just like to say to everyone… THANK YOU ALL!! I was just prescribed a 4 day dose of Prednisone 20mg for an upper respiratory infection. I was given 3 pills of Prednisone not sure if they were each 40mg Prednisone or 40mg in total before being discharged from the emergency room. I left and went to the pharmacy to have prescription filled and thought it was just in my head but I kept feeling this prickly stinging sensation under my skin on my right shoulder.
I also noticed that my skin felt cool and clammy yet I was rather warm. I initially brushed it off as my body adjusting to the tylenol w/codeine I was given for pain. After I got home, I was laying in my bed and the muscles in the back of my thighs kept twitching uncontrollably…. eventually it stopped. I was supposed to start taking my prescriptions last night but I never take any meds at night if I was given meds at the hospital within 6 hours of my bed time. I usually will wait and start fresh the next morning.
I woke up this morning feeling like my clothes were damp and still sweating. I am taking these pills back to the pharmacy and demand a refund. So glad I read everyone’s comments.
Is
I was put on the oral form of prednisone about nine months ago it started out ok the most bothersome for me was constipation which I suffer from anyway but as I increased to 80mg a day everything started to go to hell. The constipation got so bad I wouldn’t eat it seemed everything backed me up I had acid reflux and heartburn terrible stomach cramps and ended up crying and calling the doctor and told him I couldn’t do it anymore, he immediately started to wean me off but it was slow going I was still miserable so he had me taper down faster and had since been referred to another hospital.
The doctors still have me tapering, down to 4 1 mg tablets a day and I taper down every week until I am off. He started me on an IV prednisone only have two days of that in now but he knew I had to to get off the oral form he said my body was clearly rejecting it and his hopes that with the IV treatment it being fed directly into my veins instead of having to be digested and go through the whole digestive process still have the weight gain and insomnia my face is still puffy full and square. I think I look like fat bastard from Austin powers. My face is normally thin with high cheek bones and not sure I have cheek bones anymore. I feel terrible for you the weaning off is such a slow process.
Why did they put you on this, have you thought about switching doctors? Personally I think prednisone is over or mis prescribed and the one drug the doctors turn to when they are stumped. I am very pleased with not only switching hospitals but my doctors too.
AS
Hi Jo
It sounds like something very similar happened to me recently, but my treatment was very different. I woke up and the sight in my left eye was very blurred in the centre, like a finger smudge across it. After many tests I was diagnosed with optic neuritis (inflamed optic nerve). I was treated immediately for 3 days of very high dosage prednisone administered intravenously (1000mg per day), then treatment stopped completely. By the 2nd day of treatment my sight was much better, and now (1 month later) it is almost completely back to normal. I felt pretty bad from the high dose of prednisone, but the effects only lasted for a week. Now I’m fine, back to work and sight is good.
I have been told this might be the first symptom of MS, but my MRI scans were clear so I have not been diagnosed with this and hopefully won’t develop it.
AS
Sara
I have been on prednisone for nearly 9 months now – started on 60mg per day and I’m only down to 30mg – after being diagnosed with a rare disease called Takayasu’s Arteritis. I am also on Methotrexate so that it will take over the role of the steroids when I’m finally off them.
However I’m nearly at my wit’s end after taking them for so long – I’ve gained a lot of weight (20kgs, gone up 3-4 dress sizes), have a huge moon face, my skin is terrible, I’m moody & emotional, the list goes on! Lately I’ve gotten really stiff in my legs though, which I can only put down to the fluid retention. And for the past week I’ve had sharp shooting back pain – has anyone else had this?
Everyone tells me that prednisone should actually cause the opposite, but nothing has changed so that’s all I can put it down to. I’m thinking it’s because of the excess weight – I can never really get comfortable, it would be putting a strain on my body, and I don’t sleep very well.
At this stage it looks like I won’t be off prednisone completely for another 3 months which really has me worried. I don’t know how long I can keep going like this as I actually feel like I’m getting worse. Can anyone relate? I would love to know when I might start feeling a bit more normal, and how long the side effects take to go away once I’m off the prednisone.
D.P.
I have an opposing viewpoint. While Prednisone has short and long-term side effects, it can also be a gift for those with colitis, uncontrolled asthma, and other types of inflammation. I take it for medical issues I don’t wish to detail online (yes I’ve been to many doctors and tried everything else). When I don’t take Prednisone, I’m sometimes so ill as to be bedridden. With it, I can feel close to normal.
Like every reasonable person, I try to minimize the dosage and frequency. With doses over 10 mg I get mild insomnia and overeat, but that’s it. It also makes me feel healthy and energetic. A family member took it short-term for poison ivy and experienced no side effects. So not everyone is miserable on it.
Some people are very judgmental about those who need Prednisone. Without Prednisone I wouldn’t be able to work, travel, or exercise. I’m not happy about taking any medications, and it shouldn’t be taken lightly, but sometimes there aren’t better options. Obviously everyone should do their homework before taking any medication, including so-called “alternative” meds, and get second opinions. But it’s often a balancing act of the risks and benefits. I’m ashamed to admit I used to be one of those people who second-guessed others who took strong medications for serious medical problems. Not any more.
J.S.
Before I was given a prescription for prednisone over 15 years ago, I had never had an anxiety attack. I have lived with high levels of anxiety ever since taking prednisone. Has anyone else had this experience?
I am trying to find any research on prescription corticosteroids possibly contributing to a dysregulation of cortisol levels (in humans or in animals).
N. Cooper
I was just put on prednisone (along with a z-pack and erythromycin) for pink eye and an inflammation in my ear with fluid behind it. The ear pain had started on a Friday, but I didn’t go to the doctor until Wednesday, as it seemed to be getting better on its own. I went to the doctor for the pink eye, purely because I know how contagious that can be. I mentioned the ear, he checked it out and prescribed 20mg of prednisone for 5 days. The pharmacist warned me about possible side effects, but in a joking way that made me think it would be irritating, but nothing all that horrible.
I took the 20mg on the first day and was thrilled for the first 10 hours to feel no change whatsoever in my moods or anxiety/energy level. I even felt pretty sleepy when I went to bed. But at 2am, my eyes literally popped open on their own and I could not go back to sleep. It felt like someone had filled my left shoulder/arm with cement, and my thighs felt as though I’d run a marathon. In addition, I had a headache that was incredibly painful. I tried to accept that it was just what I needed to go through to take care of myself…
I came into work and tried to walk to lunch with one of my co-workers, when my left leg literally gave out. I couldn’t put any weight on it whatsoever. It was the worst charlie horse I’ve ever had. This went on for over an hour, and may still be going on — I’ve just stayed seated since that time, so who knows what will happen when I stand up again.
I talked to my sister-in-law who is a nurse, and she recommended that, if it wasn’t a life & death situation, I may want to consider weaning myself off of it, as it is dangerous to stop taking it cold-turkey. She suggested I take just 5mg today and then be done with it. Neither my doctor nor the pharmacist had told me anything about lowering the dosage during the five days I was supposed to take it, but from everything I’ve heard, it’s really not a good idea to take such a high dose for the full 5 days for such a minor problem as an ear inflammation. I had no hearing loss, I wasn’t even having pain anymore.
I don’t blame my doctor — I’d rather have someone who is aggressive in treatment than someone who doesn’t do anything. But by the same token, the medical field really needs to get on the same page where this drug is concerned. Unless it’s a matter of life and death, or a serious quality of life issue were I not to take it, I would not ever take it again.
BM
I am on prednisone for uveitis. 2 months at 80mg now down to 60mg for the next month. I live in constant fear of breaking bones or dying of infection. I will eventually see a rheumatologist to hopefully get on a steroid-sparing agent.
Yoko
I had a allergic contact dermatitis (bad chemical burn rash) on my hand with exam gloves. No patch test was done so I asked my worker’s comp doctor to send me for it. She didn’t. My doctor prescribed topical steroid, antibiotics and allergy polls. I was on them along with topical steroid as needed for two weeks. In the third week after my work, another rash appeared on my both legs. I was having sharp needle pain in my arm, shoulders and legs with it.
I was puzzled how I got them because I was not using the exam gloves that I thought I was allergic to anymore. My worker’s comp doctor told me that rash on my kegs was not work related, I couldn’t understand that either why I was having rash on my legs. So I was almost believed what my worker’s comp doctor told me. Without certain ideas why I had more rash on my legs, I went to er and checked them up since my rash was not improving with topical steroid. Itch on my both hands and legs were was unbearable.
I asked if my rash was allergic reaction from the medications I was on for two weeks for my allergic contact dermatitis, he said, not likely so, he said, it looked like a bug bite and stop topical steroid and allergy pills and antibiotics. He said start taking by oral prednisone. I started taking only oral steroid, prednisone 60mg for 3 days, then 50mg for 3 days.
The first three days I couldn’t sleep, always nervous. My heart was beating like crazy, I was feeling so tired but alert. I gained 10lb, I was sad, I was sick, I was depressed so badly, my experience of the day 4 with prednisone was even unbelievable, I was peeing all the time, say. Less than one hour. A lot of amount. I felt thirsty and had a lot of water, and I was going to bathroom all day all night. I was sweating all day all night. I started having chest pain along with the same sharp pain and felt chill on my legs and both legs were also painful.
I called the work comp. doctor. She told me to call ambulance because she was concerned my condition and asked me question if I had blisters in my mouth, I said no, but I realized that I actually had a blister on the right inner my mouth. She asked me to stop talking prednisone and prescribed different kind of allergy pills instead, my symptoms staid the same for a couple of days after I stopped oral prednisone.
I lost the 10lb right away and still urinating more than usual another 3 days after that. I checked my weight because I had no appetite but I ate some for keeping me going. My doctor asked me to go get my blood tested so I did. The red flag was for my glucose level and also my bum level, they are elevated moderately, also, my rdw was elevated. I lost 6 more pounds. I felt fatigued and hot flash with low body temperature for the day, but when I went to see my doctor the next day, my body temperature was 99f. My normal temp was usually less than 97f. For me it was high enough. Also I was still having chest pain and I was drowsy.
I went back to work following over night shift. I felt shaky and dizzy during work, and started feeling little better on the next day. I was fine but tired the day after my work but I was fine compared to the day I stopped prednisone, but by the evening in the day, I started feeling cold and feel so sick, I checked my temperature! It was 101f. I couldn’t go back to work that night.
I was wondering why I was so sick since after I started taking all meds, later found out interesting article that said, if I was allergic to topical steroid, it is possible to make more rash anywhere on my body. Ohhhh nooooo!!! Please, someone tell me, am I allergic to steroid in any route? Well, my worker’s comp doctor dismissed me because I had rash on my legs. Yeah, I know I don’t wear exam gloves on my legs for sure.
This entire experience puzzles me why no one did patch test for me to check what I was allergic to? They just diagnosed me and have me prescription, then once they run out their knowledge, they brutally dismissed from their care. Don’t you think it was medical malpractice? I do think so.
RangerRick
I am on the same meds right now. I am glad I found this site. I thought I was crazy, could not breath, tight chest and throat, heart beating out of my chest, ears ringing, cough my lungs out dealing with pneumonia and COPD. I hope it works for most, but I will not take it again.
Don’t ever want to go thru that again.
BE
I was prescribed prednisolone whilst on a recent trip to the UK where I picked up a fairly severe chest infection. The dosage was 8 x 5mg tablets (at the same time) over 9 days. I was not told to taper the dose or given any other information. Upon my return to Greece I checked with my local pharmacist about tapering the dose and was told this must be done. I have just finished the medication and feel awful. I am experiencing dizziness/vertigo, headaches, muscle weakness and had I not seen all the information on the web about this wretched drug, would have thought I had some fatal illness. If I am experiencing this feeling of general malaise after a relatively low/short dose, goodness knows what happens to a person’s body after being on the drug for much longer.
Jo
Four months ago I woke up and had half of my vision missing in my left eye. I called the local eye department at the hospital and they said my optic nerve had completely swollen and that had effected my central Vision. They said it would come back and the put me on 80mg of prednisone and vision never returned so taped dose down.
Then 3 days later I had a relapse causing more vision loss so was out back onto prednisone but 120mg this time. My face and neck swelled like nothing, I couldn’t sleep, gained weight and stretch marks and also gained an intolerance to lactose and dairy which is linked into this drug.
I am a 23year old woman who gets married in 6 weeks. As they are not 100% sure what is causing my optic nerve to swell or if the prednisone is helping (it’s been over 5 months) I was very keen to come off the drug before more irreversible damage is done to my body and in time for the swelling to go down before my wedding my doctor told me that ‘it sucks to be you’. So it’s a waiting game now to see what’s going to happen when I taper off this dose, bone scan this week to see if any damage has happened to my bones.
It also doesn’t help that the doctor is not aware of side effects of this drug. If anyone has come across issues with dairy or lactose while taking prednisone I would love to know.
christineann
HI Fadedblue, I had an allergic reaction from the dye contrast for my scan, I went to the emergency room a day later, my entire body covered with bright red rashes, they gave me 5 days of 60mg prednisone, and I feel like I’m going to die, I woke this morning on day 3 and my hands and wrists and ankles and feet are swollen and in severe pain, I went to the doctor she told me she thinks this is from the high dose of prednisone but she can’t be for sure and I have to finish the med just taper it down.
I hope you are feeling better and if anyone has experienced the same symptoms please tell me what you did and how you are doing all she told me to do was take tylenol and it will take 2 days to start going away after I stop the prednisone.
maryann c.
United States
Yes, I have problems now with dairy. I am on prednisone. I am tapering off of this horrid drug as we write. I never had dairy problems before. I cannot wait for this drug to be totally out of my body. I hear it will take at least a year until my body is back to normal. I have been on the drug for 7 months. 3 months at 20 mg, 10 mg twice a day, and until 2 days ago, just 10 mg in the morn. Last 2 days 5 mg in morn. It is a bad drug for my body for sure!!!
JK
I have a family member who has repeatedly used Prednisone for many years. Her doctor prescribes it for almost every little ailment. Anytime something goes wrong, she is back on the drug. She is probably on it for 50-60% of the year.
She now has multiple other issues, which I think are caused by taking this medication. Some are so bad she now thinks she needs surgery– what she needs is to GET OFF THIS MEDICINE!
Please, please, please research these types of medicines before taking them. I had a doctor suggest them to me for urticaria but ABSOLUTELY NOT– I was able to finally make mine go away (after many months) by doing my own research and not blindly believing what I was told.
Rachel
I had to take Prednisone after a bad allergic reaction to a typhoid vaccine (I was headed to India). I was given a very large dose, and was told to gradually taper off. During the plane ride, I started having non-stop panic attacks. It was an 18 hour flight, and all I could do was sit there. It was awful! These panic attacks lasted for another week.
I had my prescribed Ativan with me, but it did nothing to make the constant terror go away. I couldn’t go to a hospital, because that is something you do not want to do when in Mumbai. I also couldn’t eat anything and lost a significant amount of weight. I literally thought I was going to die. All I could do was lie there, and not sleep. It was terrifying.
I came home and started having blood sugar problems (so bad I would lose my vision). I would also wake up in the middle of the night to terrible panic attacks. It also caused me to gain a lot weight, which I have not been able to lose. It has now been a year, and I am finally getting back to normal. I get that the drug probably saved my life, but I will never take it again (unless it is a life-or-death situation). I think there needs to be more warning with this drug.
George in Canada
In 2000 I developed Ulcerative Coitis at age 69, lost fifteen pounds in two weeks and spent a week in hospital. Discharged into the care of a fabulous doctor, I was on a ten-week tapering course of Prednisone. Remission was total with no apparent side-effects. The colitis flared-up again in 2008 due to the stress of four month long 24/7 care of my wife after lung cancer surgery. Local doctor (Vetinary!!!) couldn’t get it right and I was on the demon Prednisone for five months until deciding to go it alone. Faith worked, but now I have constant toe pain, worse at night and no apparent remedy other than removal of toes! My former brilliant doctor moved to the U.S. Wish I knew his address!!!
Marcy B
SInce recently being diagnosed with an auto-immune condition very close to lupus, I have been on prednisone, 20 mg every other day. I know that many people are demonizing this drug, but the truth for me is that it has been the only thing that makes me feel human again.
I have taken the drug intermittently over the years for asthma, pneumonia and bronchial infections, with good effect. Once the symptoms of this disorder hit, I followed my rheumatologist’s recommendation on dosing, and he finally agreed to the 20 mg every other day. I have had very little in the way of side effects, which must mean that I am one of those who tolerate the drug fairly well. Rather than being hyper, I feel energized again and able to do some things that I could not do when the condition was manifesting.
I also understand that cutting back and looking for dietary alternatives, stress relieving techniques and life modifications is part of the whole picture. I hope that finding different ways of dealing with my stress, diet and condition will someday allow me to wean off of Prednisone. For now, I can’t even think about doing that. Remember that we are not all cut from the same mold when it comes to life and reactions to medication.
Kat
This drug, Prednisone, has been not only euphoric in the short term, but a life saver. The idea of being a mouth breather and the discomfort which comes with it, for the rest of my days, is intolerable, in short. necessary high doses from my doc, I feel like superwoman, the president, and an Olympic swimming champ all in one. I’m SO sorry for those who don’t have the reaction for which this steroid is meant, I couldn’t live without it for about 20% of the year. It does make it hard to sleep, but I’m one of the odd ducks who finds no issue with that, since I am 26 with no kids. It’s BLISS.
Victor from El Paso, TX
Used methylprednisolone 4mg 21 tabs over 6 days about 5 yrs ago. Had hideous side effects, the worst violent hiccups that did not cease day or night. Interfered with sleep, eating, working. Bad anxiety. I was not able to complete full weaning dosage. Adverse effects lasted about 2 – 3 weeks to subside. Fully recovered over 2 months. 5 yrs later due to inhaled irritant, I’m put on same meds and regimen. I had forgotten my previous experience. Day 1 insomnia and heart burn. Day 2 hiccups, heart burn and left ear slight hearing loss, insomnia. Day 3 hiccups that haven’t subsided, muffled left ear hearing, horrible heart burn, anxiety, insomnia worsened. I then stopped the dosage without weaning after day 3. A day later I still have the worst adverse effects and seem to be getting worse instead of improving. Seems the treatment is worse than the illness. There are alternative treatments that should be considered before going with synthetic corticosteroids, which should not be first line of treatment in my opinion.
Heidi
hey, I am 35 year old woman from Newcastle NSW Australia. I have also been diagnosed with BOOP only 6 weeks ago. I had an accident at work in May 2012, and after 3 weeks I was sore under my arm, resulting x-ray showed my lungs were a bit weird looking. a throat biopsy & a VATS in Aug 2012 & it (apparently) is BOOP> I am on 37,5mg of Prednisone & have a 6 week check 18th OCT to see if it is working.
The side effects are just starting now & I’m trying not to be overtly paranoid but haven’t noticed any significant change in my breathing. As I’ve said, if it helps me breathe again, I’ll take the side effects. The non-sleeping is just starting to become problematic. I really hope your journey ends well & the Prednisone helps the BOOP!!
Thank you so much for sharing!!
LD
I’m on day 7 of a short course of Prednisone, 40mg for 5 days and then 20mg for another 5 and then done. And while I’m definitely having some weird and occasionally unpleasant side effects–the water retention and near-mania, the general cranking up of the radio dial in my brain–nothing so dreadful as what some of you have been suffering. And the condition it was prescribed for, apparently a bacterial infection of the lower intestine, was much, much worse. I’d spent four days on my back with a heating pad on my stomach, whimpering, before I finally got to the doctor, convinced that my appendix was about to blow or something equally awful.
So yes, it’s making me a little weird, but I’m so relieved to be functional and pain-free after a really scary few days that I’ll take the weirdness. I’m looking forward to sleeping normally again too, although it’s not insomnia per se, just… lack of desire to sleep.
It’s not necessarily all bad, is my point. Especially in short courses.
BL
I was often placed on lower doses of Prednisone (usually around 10mg) for asthma when I was a kid. Though I’m not sure if I ever actually had asthma, I do remember what it was like being on the drug.
I don’t remember having insomnia or depression, but I suffered from Cushing’s Syndrome and I often got tremendously painful hypertensive migraines. I actually once went to a specialist who wrote a note to my regular doctor at the time telling him it seemed obvious that the Prednisone was causing my hypertensive migraines, and that I should be tapered off immediately.
I haven’t taken this drug for about 18 years (except possibly briefly in 2002) until today. I’m rarely sick these days, but I’ve Strep Throat for the past 4 days (also, haven’t had it in 18 years), and was given a Rx for 40mg daily for 4 days. I was told to take both 20mg pills together. No taper. I took my first dose today and I don’t think I’ll be taken any more. Not another mg. I feel I’m on the brink of having a migraine…which I haven’t had since 2002. I’m on antibiotics for the Strep also, so I don’t think I’ll be taking any more Prednisone.
MR
I am so thankful for Prednisone – albeit nervous when I need to take it – because nothing else can clear up my asthma attacks when they get so severe that Prednisone is needed. I’ve had bronchitis for a month now and after only two days on Prednisone, I feel so much better. A weight has been lifted. I’ll be a bit nervous for the rest of my course (9 days total) because I know that the side effects can be rough. Still, I’m so thankful to be able to take a deep breath again.
kevin
the title says it all. no sleep can’t stop moving no matter how much pain you are in. you could have a broken leg and you wont stay still.
bad thoughts, anger, and other crazy effects. the devils drug for sure.
I am slowly getting off this drug after 4 years. can’t wait, but I have to. lol
M.M.
I’m sorry to see so many people had such issues with this drug, or refusing to take it altogether. I have taken prednisone for several years now (at times prior to other medications to increase the likely hood of remission–never happened). I can honestly say, that I would rather dance with this “devil” then spend my every waking moment in pain, or fear of eating something that will set off my Crohn’s.
Of course I’ve had side effects: I lost my teeth–breaking at the gum line, enamel wearing leading to complete extraction. Due to the high dosage I had the potential to develop anxiety attacks (totaling three in the five years I’ve taken it). In all, my side effects were extremely tolerable, and a fair trade given that on this drug I have a -life-. I am not ruled by pain, or being so listless I cannot do anything more then simply lay in bed.
What people are apparently not being told (a shame indeed) is that this medication has the potential to do incredible things, it can truly help (and for all intents and purposes this is truly the only drug that has ever worked for me). But that in taking it diet, exercise, and learning what symptoms you exhibit; as well as how to control them are important factors in staying healthy, and getting the full benefit of the medication while making the effects manageable.
It is sad to see the many horrible experiences most of you have had with this drug, it is even sadder still to see many of you dismissing the good points of the medication–which is why I felt the need to share -my- experience, because without prednisone I wouldn’t be capable of leading the life I am. Which, given the severity of my Crohn’s, with all the flares and troubles it has given me is pretty darn good! I feel like a person, a person who is happy, healthy, and most days I exhibit no sign that I have any medical condition whatsoever. Prednisone has allowed me to actually live a life (with certain dietary restrictions–Crohn’s related not pred. related) that is full, and rich! I could not be more thankful for this medication!
Val
This is my third time on prednisone. The second time, while taking the lowest possible dosage, I began having horrific psychiatric/psychological side effects. I was having panic attacks, anxiety and even once I realized it was the drug there was nothing I could do about it.
My symptoms were heart racing, numbness and tingling in extremities and face, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, shaking, etc. All the symptoms of anxiety and panic. When I had a sudden hearing loss five weeks ago and a diagnosis of cochlears hydrops or Meneire’s, I was horrified to find out the treatment is high doses of prednisone. I am in my last week of tapering off and my anxiety and panic is off the charts, with all the same symptoms. Plus this time I’ve also had significant stomach upset and heartburn.
Great title, Deal With the Devil. For the first time today I was able to hear some tones in my affected ear but am having a hard time getting past the fact that I’m having tingling and numbness all over and can’t even sit at my computer to work.
Last time it took four weeks after my last dose to clear my system and feel normal again. I hope it happens more quickly this time. Even knowing what is causing this doesn’t make it any better, easier or go away.
Holly
When my pulmonologist prescribed prednisone for my hypersensitivity pneumonitis, I have to admit I was concerned. I’d read so many horror stories.
However, my own experience has been pretty much a non-event. I am hungry all the time, and so I’ve put on about ten pounds in the past month and half from consuming more calories (note: I’m six feet tall), but that’s about it. My mood and energy have been great. So, aside from the weight gain, I’ve bucked the trend on this one.
Nurse Jon
As a hospital nurse, I was aware of many of the side effects shared here. So, when my wife came home from the dentist and with a prescription for prednisone, my first response was, ‘Your not taking that.”
The dentist soon called and I ran my suggestions by him. He said he has never had any problems with prescribing it to his patients. A bit further discussion and it turns out he only prescribes it 10 times a year.
I then asked why? He said for the swelling, to help with the inflammation which would reduce the pain.
On identifying myself as a former hospice and now a holistic nurse and an expert in alternative pain management, I asked if he would mind if we avoided it for the first day to see if my nursing care would help. He agreed and said that if it did not work by noon tomorrow, then start the steroids.
First, my wife took two NAC or N-acetylcysteine, a vitamin D3, milk thistle. Added to this, a few hours later she took a bonded whey protein isolate form of cysteine (about 20 grams).
By 9:30, the swelling is slightly increased but other than the sensation of pressure, there is no pain.
Additionally, she took about 1/4 teaspoon of unprocessed sea salt and dissolved it in her mouth. Then she drank 10 ounces of water. She did this again before bed.
She followed the antibiotics as prescribed.
The rationale, NAC and the cysteine both help fight inflammation and decrease the pain by producing glutathione. The steroids have been found to decrease the immune response.
The water and salt (the new CDC guidelines say its OK) helps flush out the toxins produced by the inflammation. They also help reduce the pain as well.
She is on the road to recovery. I have not found a patient in pain that could not be helped. Our bodies want to be healthy. All we need to do is give them the building blocks.
Good Health to you and yours.
Bron
My husband has been taking short low doses of Pred for 2 years. Recently he went on an 8 week high dose and 2 weeks in became withdrawn and irritable. He then told me he didn’t love me anymore and moved out. We have been together for 20 years (married 13) and have 3 young children. This is so out of character and I am sure it is his medication. He is prone to depression and has never accepted his Chron’s diagnosis. He doesn’t talk to anyone about it.
Deborah M.
I have taken prednisone for a few months for psoriatic arthritis in my neck and head. When you can’t do a thing but hurt, even to the point of getting literally sick, unable to lift anything, just like grocery items, pushing the buggy, well you see how bad it is. I couldn’t get a rheumy to see me on my insurance. I went back to get a shot at doctor office, but didn’t even help me. Went back, and she put me temporarily 20 mg. pred. she lowered it to 10, and I am not happy with this. Says it is because it is just not good for me to be on it.
I also have to take 400 mg. of celebrex a day, tylenol too. Can someone give me some insight… I have no quality of life at all if I don’t get at least 20 mg. a day, and celebrex. I am a walking pharmaceutical. I also am responsible for caring for my 20 year old that has some problems. I have to handle it all, and I only weigh at 95 lbs. She did bloodwork on me some arthritis test, and tells me my numbers, or markers aren’t bad. I attribute this to all the meds I take for heavens sake. I don’t wish this pain on a soul…..
jgs
I am sort of dismayed that this page does not contain the many many more testimonies as to how prednisone saved lives. I believe in natural healing, but I hate to see a one-sided review of anything. ALL medications, “natural” or manufactured, can have side effects. I’ll take my chances with a drug that has been used safely and successfully by thousands upon thousands with minimal side effects to get relief from debilitating pain. My husband almost died from one dose of penicillin – should that drug be condemned?
robert w
My sympathys for your problems.
I have just discovered that the 20 Mg predisone tablets prescribed for my olecranon bursitis has cleared up the problem of my feet suddenly going to sleep when standing due to spinal compression at the L4-5 junction. I am delighted to find this as I have been suffering from this problem for several years. It is clear that even though I have spodilolesthesis, the problem can be aleviated by simply reducing the inflammation with prednisone. It took about eight days for the effect show up.
Incidentally, the olecranon bursitis has also been remarkably reduced.
I am most pleased.
HH
Thanks for the response People’s Pharmacy :) But for a sinus infection, these side effects are WAY too much of a risk to take! If I had chronic illness and had tried everything else, sure I’d risk it to get better, but there are PLENTY of ways to treat a sinus infection that I can try first and do not have the potential side effects of suicidal thoughts, bones and teeth rotting away, and my skin hurting to touch!
The Prednisone went DIRECTLY IN THE BIN unopened and untouched, along with the repeat script. I’ve gone back and gotten a normal boring course of Amoxicillin, which is nice and safe lol. Doctor said it should do the same thing for sinusitis, but he doesn’t like to prescribe antibiotics. I told him that unless its life threatening, don’t prescribe me dangerous things again!
MKP
When will this nightmare end? I am suffering from severe psychological effects from this medicine. I cut all pills 2 days ago but the lingering dizziness is killing me. I can’t stop crying. I can’t focus.
HH
Well I always come home and check the Internet after being prescribed anything that I don’t know about by my doctor… And I am seriously glad I did this time. I’ve had terrible sinus pain for the last few days, and an awful cough, I’ve felt terrible. Doctor has prescribed me Prednisone 25mg. He has advised me to take 2xtablets for 3 days, 1.5 tablets 2x a day for the next 3 days, then 1 tablet for 3 days then half a tablet for 3 days.
I filled the prescription right after I saw him, but thought I’d check up about it before I took the first one when I got home. THANK YOU EVERYONE for sharing your horror stories!
Because of you all there is NO WAY ON THIS EARTH I AM TAKING THESE PILLS! I’m going to post this comment and immediately go throw the bottle of pills in the bin ( garbage collection is tomorrow).
I will put up with sore sinuses, and hope it clears up, if it doesn’t I’ll go back to the doctor and tell him that he better have something else to give me because there is NO WAY I’m putting that Prednisone poison in my body.
Peoples Pharmacy response: Please don’t jump to conclusions. Although there certainly are times when prednisone is inappropriate and causes a lot of trouble, there are also times when he can be extremely helpful. Remember, the folks who post here are the ones with had problems. The ones who have gotten benefit don’t have a good reason to post their experience.
EHG
I feel for everyone who has had problems with Prednisone but we need to remember sometimes it is the only thing that can help some medical situations. Several years ago I was on a very high dosage, 60mg for about 5 days for welts. I don’t mean little bumps, I mean huge boiling blister type things ALL over my body. I had terrible side effects to the prednisone, anger, insomnia, etc. These were however nothing compared to the welts. As bad as the itching was the psychological stress was the worst part. It is hard to say if the welts would have gone away if not for the prednisone.
I now have a respiratory condition known as Bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia (BOOP). Prednisone is once again my friend. Am I having side effects, absolutely, but hopefully they will be short lived compared to the long term suffering I have been through with BOOP. I went from running 6 miles every few days on trails to not being able to walk up a flight of stairs without stopping and having to sit to catch my breath. I have had months of diagnosing to determine what might be going on and so have had a lot of time to try alternative and homeopathic remedies. Some abated the symptoms a little but nothing resolved the problem completely. If going on Prednisone will resolve this then that is what I am determined to do.
Every person should evaluate the side effects against the benefits. It disturbs me that Doctors pay so little time speaking with their patients about the side effects of “the devils candy”. I am sure if they did and prepared people for what was to come and explained the necessity of using this drug there would at least be more tolerance of the side effects. I am also disturbed by what I see as the sometimes unneeded prescription of it, as a first and only course of action. For the BOOP it has been 4 month and only now am I starting Prednisone after attempting other treatments first.
Harold H.
I was prescribed to take 3 20mg tables for the next five days. Does that mean I will be taking 60mgs daily? I suffer with COPD, HIV, and hep C. Should I see my PCP prior to taking this? The blogs I have read scared the day lights out of me. I may have to wait for a few days to get an appointment and wonder should not take. I would appreciate any suggestions before following the emergency room doctors orders I received tonight August 15th 2013. Concerned patient!!!!
People’s Pharmacy response: You will be taking 60 mg a day, but that may be what you need. Why not call your physician’s office to get advice?
Anonymous
I have neck psoriatic arthritis, and no rheumatologist will take my ins. so my doctor put me on pred. it has helped so, so much, but now she is lowering the dosage because she is concerned for the long term effects. it’s sad when you have to take this avenue. I would love to see the proper doctor for my condition. I hurt so at times,unable to even function, get up, lift a grocery bag. if anyone can help me let me know. deborah m.
peewee w.
I just started this prednisone 20mg. but before I read the side affects. I told my wife that my back was hurting more than that I can stand. I got a bad back and the meds don’t help my back at all. I have to double up my pain meds. to work the entire day. I hope that I don’t have as much trouble as some of y’all do. my prayers go out to you all.
CamF
I was given 10mg. of prednisone to treat the inflammation caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis. A few days after taking Prednsione my feet, ankles and legs began to swell very badly. I was sent for CAT Scans, echocardiogram, and Venous Ultrasound to determine the cause of the increase of swelling in both my feet, ankles and legs. All the tests were negative.
I have been off the prednisone about 5 weeks and did discontinue it gradually. The swelling continues and no doctor can tell me what is causing the swelling. I am very frustrated because the swelling increased after taking the prednisone but no doctor has told me that it could be side effects from taking prednisone. Why not? I feel like I am being ignored now that the tests were negative but the problem still exists.
After reading some of these comments about Prednisone I realize that I am not alone in thinking these side effects could be caused by Prednisone.
If anyone could shed some light on why my feet, ankles and legs continue to swell I would appreciate some explanations.
Thank you
Ali B
I was diagnosed with acute bronchitis and put on prednisone 60 Mg a day. The first day I took that dose I thought I was losing my mind. I had insomnia that first night along with racing thoughts and depression. I called the doctor the next day and a nurse told me to only take 20 mg for the next four days and then stop altogether. For the remaining four days I had severe mood swings, increased appetite, extreme dizziness and disorientation. I did not feel like myself and really thought I was going crazy.
I took my last 20 mg pill two days ago. The day after my last pill my body was so sore it felt like I had been in a car accident. I gained at least 5 pounds in the five days i was on it and I am still having very bad dizzy spells with fatigue. My appetite is still out of control 2 days after my last dose and I still feel dizzy and not normal.
I never ever would have taken this drug if the doctor would have warned me of these horrible side effects. I would rather have developed bronchial pneumonia then deal with these horrible side effects. My heart goes out to anyone else dealing with these horrible physiological symptoms from this drug.
june k
I am a 72 yr old female I was also diagnosed a liver decease last September I feel very fortunate that it was caught in time and saved my life but now I am wondering if the mental problems eg anxiety panic attacks and severe depression will get better I don’t expect to ever be the women I was and can except that but although I am doing well with the liver problem I go on much longer feeling this way mentally as I am not a very nice person to live with at the present time I am now on 3mg of prednisone and 25mg of azathioprine mg I have been told it takes a long time to get out of the system could someone let me know please.
wjc
Hello – Am a 84 year old male, in reasonably good shape and was diagnosed with Giant Cell Arteritis 4 years ago. Started on 60 mg prednisone and over 6 months tapered to 5 mg.
Contrary to most of these users, am doing great with the pred except for sleep, a minor issue with me. Occasionally I will get a flare but is easily resolved by popping a 10 mg for a day or two.
My Rhumy explained to me in great detail what to expect, the sleep thing, bone loss, weight, etc.
One thing all posters have failed to talk about is DIET and EXERCISE !! very IMPORTANT!! a MUST!! Before starting, get a good, local, Rheumatologist, A Dietician and check out their credentials. — Hope this helps you and good luck to all my fellow PredHeads.
dvp
I have been treated for rheumatoid arthritis [RA] for 26 years.
I have recently failed Humira and my Dr and I are trying to come to an agreement regarding which med will be used next. In the meantime I have been on prednisone 5mg in the am and 5mg in the pm (now tapering the am dose).
I am so depressed, suffer from insomnia, which I am sure increases the depression because I don’t have the energy to do what I want to do. I also feel like my leg muscles are weak. I love to walk and right now I am lucky to get around the supermarket (hanging on to the cart no less).
I have been tapering off at 1mg per week starting with the morning dose. Has anyone heard of tapering off a twice a day dose this way? I can’t wait to be totally off this drug.
I will NEVER take it again. I am tired of no sleep, crying, and feeling useless. I used to travel a lot and no longer have the energy or confidence to do so by myself. After reading some of the posts, I am hopeful that once this drug leaves my system I can get back to normal.
I would rather deal with the RA pain. Thank you for all the insightful posts and letting me vent. I am not lucky enough to be around anyone who understands this (the prednisone issue or the RA). I guesss if you don’t have something it is hard to understand what others are suffering.
VF
Hello there all. I have been using prednisone on and off for about 4 years to treat outbreaks of Henoch-scholein purpura, a form of vasculitis. It affects the small blood vessels in my legs but recently has been found damaging my kidneys to the point where I only have about 27% function left in them. Scary stuff. There is definitely a “honeymoon” phase of the drug in the beginning where you do indeed feel like you are super human. For me, this typically only lasts a few days before the insomnia, rage, and uncontrollable eating sets in. Then the self loathing begins.
Normally, I am a very outgoing, fun-loving, optimistic person but there is something about this drug that tries to suppress all of that. Given my condition though, it seems as if fate has brought me and this terrible drug together, so I try and make the best of it. The weight gain, insomnia, and swelling aren’t exactly a picnic but the mood swings are what is driving me insane. I like to joke about it-describing it as “hulking out” because that is how I feel, only I don’t turn green and large but I do like to smash and throw things.
I have spent 4 years feeling like a monster when on this drug, but knowing that I’m not alone has been a comfort to me. Thank you all for sharing your experiences! It’s tough when you feel like you’re fighting a losing battle with your body but the optimist in me knows that attitude can change anything, if it’s the right attitude.
3311cj
I went to the ENT for a refill on a nasal spray yesterday & not only did I leave with that, but I now have to use 2 & left with an antibiotic for 21 days & prednisone for 21 days due to my chronic sinus infection (did a CT scan). I am very nervous to start taking this as I feel it is a high dose for me. I start with 30mg for 7 days, 20mg for 7 days & then 10mg for 7 days. I have been googling the recommended dosages for chronic sinus infections & it’s all different. If I need it, I need it, but the side effects scare me like crazy. Any suggestions? Should I cut it down? Thanks!!
denise
my dr has put me on 7 day course of prednisone 25mg but has said I don’t need to wean off it just stop after 7 days is this ok to do?
People’s Pharmacy response: It is unorthodox. Usually the dose starts high and tapers down, but perhaps he feels that 25 mg is not a high enough dose to be tapered.
C
I have avascular necrosis from steroid use for asthma. I have had both hips replaced and both shoulders. I was off them for two years and now after a bad attack, back on steroids. I have high blood sugar, my feet are numb, and my hair is beginning to break once again. Except for the hair that is growing on my face. I am swollen and depressed.
After forty years of taking steroids off an on, my body is destroyed, even my skin has broken down and I have stretch marks from the steroid use.
Dont use unless you are dying and even then think twice…..
Michael C.
Three years ago I was diagnosed with Hodgekins disease. Six cycles of chemotherapy included taking 100 mg of Prednisone seven days in a row with a two week break in between cycles. My legs/thighs turned to jelly. I never regained my strength. One year after achieving remission I relapsed and underwent a bone marrow transplant.
The chemotherapy prescribed included prednisone. It has been one year and four months since my BMT and I still have not gained any strength in my legs. Walking is a chore. Climbing steps is extremely difficult. My doctors say there is no correlation between my chemo and my muscle weakness. Info attained via the internet supports the correlation that prednisone has all to do with my loss of strength.
I’m interested in hearing from others who might share my experience with prednisone. Oh…
On the bright side..I’m alive!
MT
I’m so sorry to hear all the horrible stories from everyone who have had side effects from taking prednisone. I am 37 years old and up until this point have been a very healthy person and have never had to take medication regularly.
In mid April I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder of the liver. I was put on prednisone 40mg for two weeks due to the fact that my liver levels were off the charts. I have to be monitored weekly with blood tests to ensure that the levels go down and stay down as I am allowed to take lower doses. I went from two weeks of 40mg to one week of 30mg and today was able to take 20mg for the next week, then down to 10mg for a week then 5mg until I am off totally. I will say I also have to take 100mg of Imuran a day to suppress my immune system so it will stop attacking my liver. The prednisone has helped lower my liver levels until the Imuran can build up enough in my body to keep things in order.
I was very hesitant of the medication because I have never been one to be dependent on it and had heard of some of the side effects of prednisone. In my case it was life or death. I was already in stage 2 of liver fibrosis due to the damage the inflammation in my liver was causing. My doctors have been so supportive and forth coming with the possible side effects.
I will say it has been a really tough transition!! I have had to deal with some of the side effects as well Moon Face so sad this has been so hard, acne which has been awful on my face, neck, and arms, not sleeping, gaining weight, red face, also feeling emotional or grumpy at times which I hate!! since I am a not that way on a normal bases, also the charlie horses in the middle of the night are awful. I am like everyone else praying that after I get off the prednisone that my body will adjust back to normal as far as the side effects go. I will say that my family has been so supportive and that leaning on and trusting God has been my lifeline. I will be praying for you all as you walk through these illnesses that God will grant you and your doctors wisdom, bring comfort to you, and for complete healing in your bodies. God has been so good to me put me in touch with great doctors and it has been quick and believe me I have had to go through a lot to get a diagnosis, lots and lots of tests, biopsy, etc. Also for my levels to go from almost 1000 to almost normal in a week is just a miracle as they had been rising every week prior.
With that said the side effects are very emotional to deal with a times and I am going to be so excited to get off this medication all together. For some of we just have to grin and bear it. I know for me personally God and my family and friends have made that possible. I will try to post again after I get to go off the prednisone to let anyone who has been asking how long it takes for the side effects to go away. I know everyone is different but hopefully it can bring hope to someone.
God Bless,
MT
tj
I think the important thing here is to go back to your Drs if you are worried I have taken preds for serious asthma and find they do keep me alive but I have all the side affects mentioned not every time and not always all at once but they do keep me alive. I feel they should only be taken for life threatening issues but I am not a medical expert and suggest you get more than one opinion because you would be surprised how many Drs vary with theirs Take Care TJ
wwb
I’ve been on this stuff for 6 days now to clear my severe reaction to poison oak, ivy, sumac, pick one. It’s worked miracles with my reaction. However the increase in my heart rate is keeping me from heating and energizing me to exercise more. Sleeping at night is the only negative effect I’m having. I start reducing my dosage in the next 2 days and looking forward to a better nights sleep!
cc
Does anyone else have a numb tongue or lips? I was going to ask something else, but I forgot what it was, so, yeah, I got that confusion/trouble concentrating thing going on, too.
Steve D
Is it possible that short term use of prednisone can cause shortness of breath and difficulty breathing? I am experiencing asthma type symptoms. I have been on the drug for 1-1/2 weeks now.
cara
I have severe asthma and have been on prednisone more times than I can count. It is in fact a “miracle drug”. I had reactions like many of the others are speaking of but only the first time I was prescribed the medication. I have NO reaction at all anymore. This drug obviously has a different affect on everyone. I love you prednisone!
AAH
My NP (a co-worker) put me on 20 mg of predisone twice a day for 5 days last week. I have taken it in the past and it made me a little moody, and my thighs swelled up like tree trunks. I told her I never wanted it again. Well, last week she put me on it again for bronchitis and an ear infection “even though she knows I don’t like it”.
Four days into it, I could not stop crying. I cleaned my house from top to bottom, then decided to make pizza for dinner. NOT a good plan for someone who can’t stretch a pizza crust under normal circumstances. I flew into a fit of rage, and having no control over my arm, stabbed the cooking sausage all over the (freshly scrubbed) kitchen and living room, then sobbed my eyes out wishing I could die as I cleaned up my giant mess.
I am not taking day #5, and hoping that my mood swings calm down today. On top of all that, my bronchitis is not at all better. The next time someone tries to prescribe me prednisone, I had better be unconscious and on the brink of death. NEVER AGAIN. I think I will actually put that into my living will.
DC
OMG…I am a heart patient and just got off 14 days of predisone. Now I have cramps (Charlie horse) in my legs, arms, hands and across my chest. Never again will I take this drug for sinus infection. I will either suffer and live with it, or do natural remedy.
MR
I am on day 3 of 12 of a tapered regime of predisone for an extreme dermatitis flare up. I’ve been battling allergic contact dermatitis for years, have worked with a dermatologist to identify and eliminate chemical allergens (patch tested for over 200), but have also noticed I react to heat (exercise, outdoors), and am also currently trying a grain/gluten free diet to see if that helps. I have resisted pred to this point, but after waking up with my face completely swollen after an evening in outdoor heat, I knew I had to get some immediate help and agreed to this 12 day course.
Today was my first possible side effect – feeling a little spacey in the office, but that seems to have passed after eating some yogurt and an orange, so perhaps its my recent dietary changes, not the pred. No sleep trouble thus far and my skin looks completely clear, which is actually quite shocking to me visually after having had serious redness and inflammation for years. I am hoping that by keeping up the anti-inflammatory diet while I am on this course of meds, that this will all be a turning point. I am also working with an acupuncturist – trying to cover all my bases. If anyone has had a similar experience, I would love to hear your story.
MJ
I feel everyone’s pain, unfortunately. I was prescribed 50 mg of prednisone for 5 days during a trip to the emergency room for an allergic reaction. After I was given the first dose before I was discharged, my skin turned mottled and I felt as if I were in a fog like state. Hours later I had to make another trip to the emergency room later that night as my hands and feet began to swell, my breathing became shallow and my heart wouldn’t stop racing.
How I was able to remain on prednisone for the 5 day course and remain sane at work & home, I do not know. I would start each morning with a racing heart, a heavy chest, an odd heavy sensation in the back of my head accompanied by a headache, hot burning skin, blurry vision, swollen hands/face/feet, and a foggy/confused state of mind. These symptoms would last throughout the day and sometimes well into the evening.
After a doctor’s checkup, my doctor prescribed 18 more pills of prednisone in order to ween myself off of the medication, and to help with my unknown allergic reaction in case I had another episode. After finding this website and tracing my symptoms back to prednisone, I threw the rest of 18 pills in the garbage.
I have not had another allergic reaction yet, but I will take my chances with benadryl and my epi pen if needed. I wouldn’t wish this drug on my own worst enemy! The side effects were absolutely unbearable and worse than what I had originally made the visit to the hospital for!
Amy B
I’ve been on prednisone for about 6 years, varying dosages. I’m currently tapered down to 10mg/day. I was prescribed it for very severe eczema (severe enough to be hospitalized a few times, and at those times I got IV solumedrol).
Since then, my weight has more than doubled. (I have lost 35 pounds since I was at the highest, but I have a lot more work to do. Also, I used to be in very good health and very athletic, so it annoys me when doctors say “just eat right and exercise!” If it was that easy, I’d have done it already). This has caused bad stretch marks, thinning skin, sweating, hot flashes, also.
I also developed diabetes from pred and weight gain (I am 32, and I was thin before pred, no health issues besides the eczema). I also have high blood pressure, IBS, Cushing’s syndrome, sometimes I get numbness in the extremities.
I have cataracts in both eyes and will probably need surgery (next appt is in 2 weeks, then I’ll find out). I also developed massive dental problems, decay, cracking, sensitivity. I feel like having them all pulled and getting dentures is inevitable at this point, and they used to be healthy. I’ve sometimes grown hair on my face, and a few times I went 6 months without a menstrual period.
The psychological side effects are what scare me the most, I am tired, I can’t concentrate, I have memory issues, panic attacks, depression, and it feels like a lack of willpower, I just don’t care about anything, which impacts my jobs. I have trouble accomplishing much in a day, between the tiredness, confusion, and what feels kind of like ADD (undiagnosed though, I can’t afford a psychiatrist when I’m seeing four other specialists). No one seems to believe me about the psych effects of the drug, even though many of them are mentioned on the side effects sheets you get with the prescription. I failed college classes and lost jobs from these things. The whole thing has been a nightmare, but I’m dependent on them now and it could take years to get off them.
JR
Took my first of 7 20 mg tablets prednisone early last evening. It was prescribed on the off-chance that the severe coughing I’ve had for nearly 3 weeks, along with other pains, might reduce a hypothetical inflammatory process. (It certainly feels like it to me). I am severely fearful of medications.
After the prednisone took effect, I felt calmer. The sense of inflammation was greatly lessened. Coughing decreased. I slept very well, save for waking with mild pain in both feet, and some tingling, which may well be due to other factors. For me, it is worth the short-run – I think. And, I may have paradoxical reactions to the drug. More concerned about what has happened to my ability to breathe well; all worst-fears being quite possible, if not probable.
I appreciate reading other experiences, but do hope that useful effects are noted.
SBCA
I have taken the Medrol Dosepak probably 4 times over the past few years for sinusitis or bronchitis. I have never had a bad reaction – on the contrary, it made me feel very good. I felt very energetic, awake, feeling like I could clean the whole house with energy to spare. Again, this is a six day graduated dose of corticosteroids, and I took the entire day’s dose each morning with food (instead of the package directions since I was told by the Pharmacist that it could keep me awake). That worked very well for me and my sleep was not disrupted. I was surprised to read about the serious side effects. It has always helped me when I’ve had problems with sinus infections and I’ve always felt much better with the Medrol Dosapak. Maybe it gives me a mild “manic” reaction? All I can describe is that I feel very energetic in a good way.
Shena
I was given prednisone a week ago and I am still currently on it and I am only 14 years old It was prescribed to me because I broke out in hives and after a few weeks the doctors decided it was an auto immune disorder.
I have an appointment to go to a specialist but its not for another month and I have been getting light headed and I am worried about all of the side effects that everyone has posted. My physician never informed me of any of these side effects!
charlotte
I’m on prednisolone which is the same steroid I have been given them for an IBD which has not been diagnosed I’ve been on them for 7 weeks so far and still have 3 months left at a reduced dose from 40mg I hate it because I can’t sleep I have painful legs my eyes itch I keep feeling down and cry a lot I’ve even been taking things without paying for them and not realised until I get home .. I’m wondering about not knowing where I’m going or what I’m doing .. shaking all the time feeling sick and anxious like nearly everyone who has taken these drugs I was not warned at all about this and when I mentioned some of the side effects to a doctor in the hospital I just got an oh dear try get some rest !!!
T.R.
Hi I was wondering if anyone can relate to my life.
My husband took predisone 100 mg for 6 months for some vision loss he experienced.
That was approximately 15 years ago. I feel like that was the last time I saw my very loving husband. Since the predisone I feel like it stole his awesome personality. He has had a complete personality change.
This has taken me many years of searching but I have come to the conclusion that the predisone may be the reason for his change. Can anyone relate to this? This is a change he can not see for some reason. It is like he does not have the ability to care anymore. Although this did seem to help his vision loss there are many days I wonder what he would be like without the predisone,
Arlinee
I was prescribed prednisone 20mg 2 tablets, I took one thursday the other one on friday for some hives rash skin, however, on Sunday morning I woke up loopy, vomiting, headache, and weak. Can anybody tell me if I’m suffering from side effects? I’m still in bed as per today, with same symptoms. I feel very awkward and bad.
Michele S.
Horrific stuff. Of course, the hospital denies everything. I know in my heart, the predisone caused my dad to have dementia symptoms. He was worse when it was given through his veins. (I never knew what his dose was.) When given an lower oral dose, he started to get back to normal. He was given this large dose due to a COPD attack. He was in the hospital for 5 days because of his mental state. Sounds like your symptoms were worse. Best wishes to you.
JT
I wish I had seen your comments before my husband was prescribed Prednisone for a breathing problem. Years ago he was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder, but did ok without medication for years (as long as we put up with his quirks and OCD he was ok.
As soon as the Prednisone tapered off, he began having really bad panic attacks, he would hyperventilate, shake, gasp for breath. he swelled up so badly in 2 weeks he looked pregnant and his legs were covered with whelps, swollen and began oozing fluid. He is now in the hospital CCU with the Drs thinking it is a allergic reaction. It was certainly worse than the breathing problem for which it was prescribed
BR
I am searching for information regarding being given mega doses of Prednisone in a hospital and not being consulted or informed. By mega doses I mean 600 mg one day, 580 mg next day, 490 mg next two days. An endocrinologist and a pharmacist viewed as likely fatal doses. Definitely cause steroid psychosis. I suspect they gave me these for an adverse event – this is denied by the hospital. I suffered excruciating pain throughout my body – ruptured shoulder cuff, crippled – still can’t walk and had no crippling prior. Any feed back on such high doses? I had total insomnia, wasting, and a general feeling of being 100 years old.
Michele S.
Thanks so much for your reply. He is doing much better mentally. We still believe it is medically caused. However we will never know.
DS
When my father had heart bypass surgery in 1989 he developed personality changes while in the hospital. My parents lived in another state and my mother related his confusion and paranoia to me. I happened to mention it to a neighbor who was an OB-GYN. He said that people in intensive care units often experience confusion and exhibit personality changes because, he thought, they were living in artificial light and had no way of telling night from day.
He predicted that my Dad would do MUCH better once he got home, and to be sure that Dad sat near a window every day. So although some of the effect may have been from Prednisone, I wonder if your father’s experience doesn’t bear this idea out.
Michele S.
My father was admitted to the emergency room for an attack of emphysema. He was later admitted for a total of 5 days. After 2 days of being on IV predisone, he developed confusion and he imagined bizarre things happening. He kept looking for people and he thought he was at home. It was so bad, the hospital staff had someone stay with him a night so that he would walk off or go to another room.
Once he was discharged from the hospital, his mind seems to have returned. However, he is finding it difficult to determine what was real and what wasn’t. He is 82 years old but NEVER showed any signs of dementia prior to the hospital stay. We are hoping it will never happen again. Has anyone ever heard of this problem/situation while taking predisone?
CynthiaB
Latoya, I just read your description of your symptoms and it reminded me of Reader’s Digest article I read in the last 30 days about a woman with symptoms similar to yours, especially the acute hearing. She finally found a doctor that recognized her symptoms and was able to treat her for some rare condition. Unfortunately I don’t have the magazine any longer, and I can’t remember the nature of her condition, but I suggest you could search the last 2-3 editions of Readers Digest to see if you can find her story. Good luck!
basketcase
Well I’m glad I read all your comments because I thought I was unable to stand it another second. I took prednisone twice in my 32 years. The first time I quit taking it after day 6 not knowing that was bad. I became a manic depressive in a split second I had never had depression before so I freaked. I drove my family crazy with my craziness. It took two weeks for me to recuperate and I had to leave my old apartment because just being there made me remember my horrible experience. I took prednisone again a week ago. I have been a mess of bloated fat face and stomach. I still can’t breath from asthma. I go into manic spats of crying and I can’t get the anxiety under control. I wake up with my heart racing. I feel like I’m having an attack of the central nervous system. I went to the er and the Dr Said there’s nothing you can do. They gave me more after they made me crazy with the drugs in the first place.
I was given buspar which is like Prozac and told to down some benadryl. I am not normally ever depressed or have anxiety that was this bad. Drs give you a script and they don’t warn u I feel like a raving lunatic. I can’t do anything without overreacting or crying. I am insane. I thought of admitting myself into a psych ward but I turn to prayer. It has helped me to not lose it completely. I surround myself with family and friends who I am absolutely driving crazy too. But I have faith in the lord and I will get through this madness. I will pray for all of u out there just know you’re not alone. HAVE FAITH AND GOD BLESS
Christine C.
My last entry was Jan.19th this year .. I had been off Pred for approx 1 month … … I had been on Pred for 6mths … gained 20 odd Lbs .. had terrible side affects like you all … but I am feeling so much NOW like my old self… not manic any more ( and I was told how erratic I was behaving etc !!) my moon face is gone .. yeaaa.. I have lost 10lbs & working on the other 12 .. with the Mediterranean diet .. I am SLEEPING again ….. I am again UPBEAT.
Ok my eye prob. without steroids has been OK I am now weaning down on steroid eye drop’s 1 a day next week I eye drop every other day & Florubiprofen , 1/2 every other day, but I tell u after reading all the letters .. I will NOT go on Prednisone …. unless its life or death
Also a lot of doctor’s are NOT WARNING / telling / Patients / They need to wean down VERY SLOWLY … & sometimes .. for some things .. find something else to take ..NOT PREDNISONE …. every one needs to spread the word about the warnings @ Dangers / side effects …
Good luck to all who are suffering, find another Doctor who is “clued up ” MANY ARE NOT … if you need help .. a good endocrinologist should be able to help .. & last of all do not doubt your self EVER .. be pro active in your health care. Love & Blessings to all of you who are suffering.. have FAITH .. THIS TOO SHALL PASS :-)
MA
I am going through the same feelings. How long until you felt some kind of relief from these symptoms?
Kevin
Man, I’m way too familiar to this for it to be healthy.
I’ve been on prednisone since July 3rd 2012 for chronic pericartidis, a complication from open heart surgery to correct a right coronary artery anomaly I discovered after having a heart attack in PE. LOL. I laugh at this cause it’s just so crazy at how much the body can go through and endure. I’m 16 and I’ve been taking about 60mg everyday and tapering every third day by 5mg. Whenever my dose gets down to 5mg though, I start getting severe pain and pain to the point where I can’t walk or talk. Not because of the side effects but because that’s what pericarditis does.
I’ve tried to manage without prednisone but the pain gets too extreme that I give in to it. I’ve fainted in class from my pericartidis, it really is so painful and weakens your whole body.
But the side effects, smh. I’ve gained 50lbs so far, and my hair grows crazily fast, my face is always flushed red, I’m sweating a lot, I’m hot, I’m pissed, I’m angry, and a general feeling of icky ness. Horrible medicine, but I need to take it to survive :/
Sometimes it doesn’t seem worth it.
marsha
I too had retina reattachment and was put on the prednisolone eye drops for 6 months. I finally had to say something to the dr about wanting to stop as I no longer saw any advantage for it. I had several side effects such as pain, on the verge of migraines, swollen face, dilated eye, sleeplessness. Everything went away but the swollen side of the face which is now a swollen jowl. It has been 8 months and I sure hope it will go away!!
vf
I am one of those who love/hate Prednisone, but could not function without it. 29 years ago I was diagnosed with Meniere’s disease, over the years lost most of hearing in left ear. Short course with tapering of Prednisone was able to somewhat stabilize the attacks. About 6 years ago, awoke one morning to total hearing loss in both ears. Was seen immediately by my long-term ENT. Diagnosed with “Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease”.
This has more recently become scientifically associated with previous Meniere’s Disease diagnosis. If this is treated very quickly (within 1-3 weeks) very good chance of remission. I have had recurrences approx. 6-7 times since. My total life saver has been with Prednisone. Although I also get many severe reactions from the medication, including the last time a severe psychotic reaction (again swearing to never take it again), once again I am grateful for Prednisone for treating a new attack.
Usually I am able to gain most of my hearing in my “good – right” ear. I will never again be able to hear from my left (Meniere’s ear). If I didn’t have Prednisone I would most likely lose total hearing in my right ear, resulting in total, permanent hearing loss – Deafness!! Please be very careful when you say “Never Again” or to put “Allergic” on your medial charts. You never know when you may truly need this medication.
Alex
I have MS and in Jan 2013 I was prescribed a high dose of oral Prednisone to bring me out of a major relapse. Most of the information I could find about Prednisone was for long term use or otherwise wasn’t specific for the extremely high dose I was given. I was prescribed 1000mg of Prednisone per day. This is not a typo. This is the currently accepted dosage to treat MS relapses.
I had to take 10 x 50mg pills with breakfast and another 10 at dinner time. The hardest information for me to find was how long the side effects would last after finishing the course. So, now that I know, I want to post the answer here in hopes of helping anyone else in a similar situation.
I started the Prednisone in the evening of Jan 14th, 2013. My relapse had been progressing noticeably on a daily basis at this point. After that first course of 10 pills my MS symptoms had plateau’d by the next morning. My last dose of Prednisone was taken on Jan 17th (3 days, 20 pills/day). My MS plateaus usually last for weeks before the symptoms gradually fade away, but by Jan 18th I was back to walking, vision had fully returned, and lingering skin sensitivity was fading.
My Prednisone side effects during the 3 day course consisted of: severe stomach upset, severe insomnia, occasional head ache, bowel issues, mild feminine issues, and random spots of stinging on skin (ankles, knees, arms).
My Prednisone side effects after completion of the medication: random hives (large hot and red itchy patches), distraction, mild back pain/stiffness, jittery/shaky, high energy, anxiety, strange acne, floating sensation, slight bleeding of the gums, hunger and sugar cravings, occasional swelling of feet, legs or ankles, forgetfulness and mild confusion.
Here’s the timeline of how the side effects left:
Day 1 – (first day of no new Prednisone) MS symptoms decrease so much that I felt I could return to work. Stomach mildly upset in the morning but felt fine by evening with no recurrence later. Feminine and bowel issues end by evening. Joints mildly sore, took Glucosamine.
Day 2 – slept through the night between Day 1 and 2, but insomnia returned next night. Jitteriness, anxiety, and hives began on Day 2.
Day 3 – Sleep back to normal.
Day 6 – No longer feeling jittery. Hives and swelling still occurring. Occasional migraine. MS symptoms still fading. Joints and back no longer sore, except right knee (MS related not Prednisone).
Day 18 – Still getting weird acne, hives, cravings for candy. Relapse symptoms gone, except for lingering right knee stiffness which is much milder than before, but never fully resolves.
Day 20 – Back to normal. Side effects gone, MS relapse gone (excluding right knee)
1 Month – shoveling snow, driving, socializing, life is good
PF
This happened to me too :( And I’m in between mh providers at the moment. 5 days at 30mg then 2 days tapered, for a virus that made me short of breath. The inhaler they gave me helped fine. I don’t know why an ER Dr at a world- class teaching hospital would prescribe this to someone who disclosed to at least 2 nurses and one doctor that night that I have bipolar disorder. Not even a warning. Nothing about mania or ANY psych side effects on the PI sheet either. It’s been weeks and I’m still trying to get stable. Do I have any recourse? Most Dr’s keep saying, Oh it can do that to people who aren’t bipolar at all. Well, I really don’t care – I want my life back!
John
I’ve been on prednisone twice, once for mononucleosis and once for wisdom teeth removal.
I have a less-than-average-tolerable case of misophonia; this made it completely intolerable. The first day while on prednisone there is no effect. But towards the end of the second day at the slightest sound of someone speaking an intense pain and rage surged through my head. Both times I ended up screaming and throwing things until I finally got tired and curled up fetal position while crying in a corner…
The second time it happened the doctor said I could take just 1/2 dose the next day then get off of it, as opposed to taking it the rest of the week. No problems after that, I didn’t even have issues with swelling which was why I was taking it.
Jenny H.
I was prescribed 75mg of Prednisolone for 3 weeks, then 50mg for 3 weeks, then had to cut back quickly to 25mg for 2 days then 12mg for 2 days so I was off it before Orbital Decompression Surgery due to Graves Disease (Thyroid condition effecting the eyes). It is 5 days short of 4 weeks since I had surgery and I feel awful…..very very tired, no motivation, overwhelmed at the thought of doing daily stuff, sinus pain, irritable and unable to complete daily chores. Also fat face, tight around swollen areas in neck and legs, and swelling near collar bone. The pred didn’t do anything positive for my eye as I still had to have surgery but I am worried that I may have done permanent damage to my body by taking it at such a high dose and also by not really weaning off the drug slowly.
As I had spinal fusion just a year ago, the last things I need is for problems with my bone density as my bones need to stay healthy, even though I am 58. I am still on Neo-Mercazole for my over-active Thyroid and was already taking Zoloft for Depression, which has been increased to 150mg daily to combat the mood effects of the Thyroid medication.
1. Does anyone know if 6 weeks of 75 – 50mg of Pred will effect my bones?
2. Does anyone know if there is anything I can add to my diet to gain some energy without effecting my endocrine system and thyroid levels? thanks.
S.T.
I was diagnosed with RA in 1988 when I was 26 and was prescribed methotrexate and prednisone off and on for over 12 years. In 2000 I said “NO MORE!” and gradually weaned off both meds. The day to day side effects had become intolerable but at the time I had no idea how much permanent damage had been done to my bones and teeth.
By 2005 I had spent almost $25,000 on root canals, crowns, and extractions in an attempt to save some of my teeth. The dentist was the first health professional to tell me about all the damage these drugs, especially prednisone, do to teeth and bones. I was really angry that no doctor or pharmacist ever told me about the long term effects. Now I have osteoporosis, am on thyroid replacement for life, am in constant pain, and have eye problems in addition to ongoing dental issues.
In 2010 my RA flared terribly and I developed psoriasis on my ankles and lower legs. I refused oral prednisone and steroid joint injections but did use a steroid cream to help heal the psoriasis. I have used it off and on since 2010.
In August 2012, I again had a severe RA flare and the psoriasis returned with a vengeance. I started to use the steroid cream over a much larger area of my body. In Nov 2012, I had routine blood tests to check my thyroid, blood chemistry, etc. My liver enzymes were high which upset me because I never drink and I thought, “oh no, now what?” A few days later, I realized my liver enzymes were probably high because of absorbing steroids through my skin by using the cream for psoriasis.
Now my teeth and gums are causing problems again and I am positive the use of steroid cream has contributed to this. I am just so angry and upset but, y’know, it’s my fault for dropping my guard.
I’m so frustrated after so many years of battling my own body. I’ve always tried to keep a smile on my face and focus on the positives in my life but I am beyond exhausted. I’m not sleeping, have no appetite, and have been in tears for days which is very unlike me. I feel so betrayed by the entire medical community. If only one person had stepped up in 1988 to tell me about the long term effects of steroids, I might have been able to avoid at least some of the problems I am experiencing now. But no one said a word at any time during the 12+ years I took these drugs. Instead they kept telling me to make sure I took all the meds, not to miss a dose, etc.
All apologies for such a long rant. I hope someone will read this and will be able to avoid all the problems I am battling now because of these drugs.
Thank you for allowing me to post.
S-.
SPW
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am having the same issues. My teeth are dying from the inside and breaking above the gumline. They are crumbling like chalk from the inside. How long did it take you to get your teeth replaced and were u hospitalized while it was being done? who did it a dentist or an oral surgeon? Please help I am too young to feel like this.
LC
Thank you for your post. I am wondering how you are as I’ve had a similar experience in that I seem to be currently severely allergic to all food. Allergist has me on an “elemental” liquid diet (yuck). About to start 7 day Prednisone burst. Wondering if you were able to go back to eating once you stopped pred.? ever figure out what happened? thanks for any insight.
KW
I was prescribed Nasacort for a sinus infection in August. 8 squirts a day as per my allergist – which by the way, is more than the recommended max dose. When I stopped them in September, I fell into major steroid withdrawal. I went back up to 4 squirts and over the last 4 months have slowly gotten off of them. Not one second of it has been painless – I’ve had nearly every symptom of withdrawal imaginable – nausea, diarrhea, stopped period, muscle and joint pains, dizziness, low blood pressure, insomnia, heart racing, fever, blurry vision, painful skin rash, inability to deal with even low stress, and (worst of all) massive panic attacks and anxiety which I had to start treating with Ativan just to exist. I have not been able to care for my kids because I’ve been bed ridden with symptoms.
What I will say is this – I was on a dose that is comparable to those taking prednisone. An endocrinologist told me to just get off of my last low dose of it. I am almost 4 weeks off and the anxiety is getting much better. Each day, I am experiencing a different symptom. Today I have the muscle and joint pain with skin rash. I figure that I will go through the rotation of all of the symptoms until my body finds its way finally back to normal. I have met friends who have gone through a similar experience and it is usually the case that the first 30 days following your last dose of steroid will be the worst, but things will slowly get better from there. I would say that is what I am experiencing.
Beware of all steroids! I would have dealt with stuffed sinuses any day over giving up the last 5 months of my life to this junk!
MS
I have been prescribed Prednisolone 75mg a day for two weeks because of problems with my vision. I have now been taking this at this dose for 8 days and if I’m honest, I feel better than I have in a long time. The only negative side effects I’ve had so far are insomnia (terrible when you have to get up for work). I wake up at 2.15am every night and I’m awake until around 5.00am. Last night was the exception, I simply didn’t get back to sleep! The other negative is that my vision is now more blurred than it was before.
Physically however, I feel great. No pain for the first time in 2.5 months and much better mental health. I feel “normal”, like I imagine people are supposed to feel. No high, just generally happy with life. I’ve only been taking this for 8 days though. My eye doctor said I could just stop after two weeks but all the information I’ve gained so far says not to. I’ll discuss this with him at my next appointment in 7 days time. For those of you who are suffering, I’m so sorry because whilst I was so afraid to go on this drug, I really have had a positive experience with it so far.
JW
This drug has saved my life and greatly reduced my hospital admissions. I have to admit I respond very well to pred (we call it my super man drugs cos after 2 days I feel amazing). I usually have 3-7 short courses a year (5-10 days max although I always request the 5 day course)I already take seritide 250 2x a day (sometimes 3) montelucast, hydroxizine, spiriva and lots of ventolin via spacer so when I get sick, a cold, random allergic reaction etc this is the only option I have (although the dr is considering a low dose of erythromycin to be added in.
It’s not all bad on pred.. I admit I eat loads of protein but then often before I am so sick and unable to breath that I actually loose weight so I only gain a few pounds. I get very thirsty but then all my meds have that effect and I need to pee all the time but Ventolin to has that effect and if I need the pred then I need the ventolin. I always carry pred in my hand bag encase I need to use my epi pen (part of my emergency plan). My Dr and I have an agreement a short but heavy dose does the trick which limits the side effects to the days I am already off with whatever has caused the need for the pred.
My father on the other hand took pred for 2 years for sarcoidocis (spelling?) it took him a while to feel normal after he said it felt like having a strange flu or mild malaria. Every person is different but I have to say this drug saved my life on more than one occasion.
SMS
I am a 48 yr old female that at the age of 28 went to the doctor for a cold and received a prescription for prednisone starting at. 90 mg then winding down. This went on for two years, then I woke up one night to hearing my bones breaking in my hip., then on to waking up paralyzed. One yr. after all this insane pain and several hospitalization my Dr took another MRI and was told Ike that I needed emergency surgery and that until they got in their I may need to have to have my right leg amputated up to my thigh because they thought they seen what looked like tumors. How flipping scary.
Well come to find out what they thought were tumors ended up being large holes (bone farces) in my leg so then I had to have both hips replaced and I just completed my 3 hip revision last aug 28. They have a name that comes with. This it is called Avasculer Necrosis Disease which also I am now being treated for glaucoma. Prednisone caused all of this and I will still need a lot more surgeries in my future. I firmly believe that Prednisone is the DEVIL. I wish you all the best from the bottom of my heart.
jpm
I think you and any other Lupus sufferer would notice a dramatic improvement if you 100% cut out ALL WHEAT, RYE (gluten) from your diet.
I’m just recommending this as I’ve seen it with my own eyes.
WM
Went to see my primary care doctor in December; had a lingering cough since mid November, couldn’t shake it. He prescribed Nasonex but didn’t help.
Went back in Jan and was prescribed Prednisone 12 day pack starting with 60mg a day then 40 then 20…. On day 9 I felt like I was getting a stomach flu, sweating, dizziness, weak, stomach pain, Heartburn and my face broke out. Stopped the Prednisone. Went back to Doc and sent me to see dermatologist.
Made appointment to see Gastro Dr. because I wasn’t getting the Flu but the stomach was killing me. I suffer from GERD but it’s been under control for years Nexium 40mg. Endoscopy shows stomach very irritated, worse than its ever been. Nobody wants to say that the Prednisone caused this. Don’t take this stuff if you have GERD!
PEOPLE’S PHARMACY RESPONSE: Stomach/intestinal irritation, even ulcers, are a side effect of prednisone.
C. C
I was diagnosed with Thyroid eye disease back in July put on Prednisone for 3 weeks 60mg, down to 20, after the last tablet was taken had an immediate reaction, of the problem .. referred to a well known Eye doctor here in Tampa who said I was weaned off too soon so he started all over again, put me back on Pred. again high dose, weaning down till December !!!….. I experienced all of the symptoms I have just read about, Anxiety, Insomnia, at times manic, huge weight gain, (and I am normally a thin person) Moon face, etc etc.
However I doubted the diagnosis, & went to see an Endocrinologist, she did blood work, & said my eye prob. NOT due to Thyroid!!! Advised me to go to U.S.F Eye Institute… That was last month (Dec) … was still on the Pred, 5 mg.. after reducing to 2& 1/2 the eye prob flared up… The 2 doc’s @ the Hos. said the diagnosis is Scleritis. I have been off of Pred now since Dec 19th, ( my moon face has gone, but still 20lbs over my normal weight) & now on steroid eye drops, & “Flubiprofen”, weaning down from 3 a day, now 1… but I am having the same beginnings of the flareup again, Doctors said I need to see a Rheumotologist they feel there is an underlying condition causing this… they say, the next kind of treatment would be injections in the eye with steroids, failing that Methotrexate…. I feel pretty negative right now about the whole thing… & since coming off the Pred, I have had Swollen feet, my GP has put me on a diuretic & potassium as of yesterday…. what I am wondering are all these side effects due to coming off the Pred ?? If so how long does it take for the side effects to be out of my system…
I never want to take this drug again, it has been a night mare, of the worst kind !!
I wish all of you good peep’s well & keep thinking positive, I always say “This too shall pass ” I hope so.
VK
I have been on 20 mg of prednisone for a month and it is a love hate relationship. I was prescribed prednisone for chronic ulcerative stomatitis. I lived in severe pain for four years due to chronic canker sores on my gums, tongue and the inner cheek area. My mouth is completely clear I can talk and eat its great. I also have a lot more energy and my skin is very clear all over. However some negative side effects I am experiencing is insomnia, muscle cramping in arms and legs, heartburn, aggression. I think our next step is to lower the dose and see how low we can get and still stay clear of the canker sores.
knh
I have been sick so I went to the Dr. and they prescribed Ciprofloxacin and they put me on 10mg Prednisone but 8 a day! with no decline in dose I decided to go down myself and not just stop them at once. Now I am sore to the touch! Everything on my body hurts even top of my head. I have been very moody and ill. I’m usually a very happy and cheerful person.. Are these side effects from this med? and How long will this last? I have been off meds for 2 days now
Tracy
Prednisone helped me. It perhaps even saved my life.
In 1977 I was 10 years old and diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called polymyositis. I got so weak that I couldn’t get up off the floor without help, and I couldn’t even hit the bottom of a basketball net with a ball when standing under the goal. I was very weak. In addition to physical therapy, the main treatment was 6 months on prednisone. I recall that I gained weight and didn’t grow in height during this time. When I stopped taking the medication, I grew 3-4 inches and soon lost all the weight. I don’t think I’ve had any problems since then from having taken prednisone. And the disease went into permanent remission. I returned to playing basketball and it was as if the disease had never happened. I’m now 45.
I will add that from my mid-20’s on I have had periods of mild to moderate depression…and after reading the above comments, wonder if this is a result of having taken prednisone. I doubt it.
Also, when I was younger I would get terrible rashes from poison ivy. The treatment was always prednisone, which got rid of the rash and also gave me incredible energy! I didn’t need to sleep as much while on the medication and remember feeling that I was getting a lot done (because I was more energetic.) Last summer my mother took prednisone for poison ivy and she and a friend ended up painting an 8-room, 2-story old farm house. It’s big! She’s 65. Go mom!
anja
Hi all. Found this forum tonight & am grateful as I was absolutely desperate. Again. I acknowledge that pred etc can save lives but its come at a terrible cost for me. I have anti phospholipid syndrome with Itp & was prescribed 50mg pred. I quickly became manic & would be awake & cleaning for 72 hours at a time & was drinking a bottle of cinzano a night & I normally never drink.
Had no effect. Drinking & cleaning with a dazzling zest for life. The trouble started when I reduced from 10mg to 5mg. I reacted like a heroin addict going cold turkey. Chills, nausea, intense body pain. Dr said to increase dose again & if I felt better it would indicate pred withdrawal. That was several months ago. I’m still on 5mg splitting the dose between am & pm. As soon as I try to reduce by even half a mg I begin having insidious suicidal thoughts. I have lost the ability to manage stress & have sworn at & abused my husband & 16 yo son.
I’ve become someone else. Things were a bit better in early December & I had stabilised but I began rituximab/mabthera infusions for the itp at end of Dec. This involves a 100mg shot of cortisol immediately prior to each infusion & its taken me weeks to realise that its messing with the pred effects. Now I find myself in s whole world of sh*t again. I’m either abusive & raging or remorseful & depressed. I apologise but my words seem empty.
I’m stunned that so few of my drs know anything about this whole withdrawal nightmare. Some of the people here have written amazing things & I’ll return to read them when I lose the plot again. Btw I’ve been off work since July, put on 20kg, have moonface & camel hump. I sweat like a pig & have no appetite. I’m researching everything I can but sometimes I’m too mental to care. To all of you who are suffering much love & empathy. Thanks for what you’ve written. It’s saved me tonight. Take care xxx
DS
I used to have tinnitus. I no longer do, although I cannot tell you why. It could be the magnesium and B vitamins I take or the occasional black strap molasses, which I take for the minerals in it. People write into earthclinic.com that apple cider vinegar with water and honey can help. Some say that anemia will cause ear ringing. As for HBP, I cannot recommend my ResPerate unit enough. Google it. The website has a lot of suggestions for controlling BP that do not involve drugs. I am off my Diovan and will never take it again.
KI
I took Liprinosil about a month ago for ten days for HBP and stopped it because of ringing in my left ear. My ENT prescribed prednisone for 6 days for me for the ringing. I decided not to take it for fear it may make the ringing worse. Good choice? Suggestions?
JEB
I had sharp pains radiating from my left ear, like I had an icepick shoved in my ear, every few minutes, it would make me jump or cringe every time it happened. Went to the Dr and he gave me ammoxicillin. 4 days later the sharp pains were gone but now had pressure in my eye and left sinus. Went back to the Dr. and they said I needed a shot of steroids and to give me a stronger antibiotic, Levofloxacin AND Prednisone 20 mg. for 5 days.
After the visit I started experiencing needle like pain on my forehead, eyebrow and hair on my left side. I took the prednisone yesterday and I cannot tell you how much pain I am in. If feels like my hair is made of needles, when I touch my forehead, it causes sharp needle like pain.
I have not slept well and yes, I did get jittery, but am sitting here now this morning deciding NOT to take the prednisone. Whoever said to way the pro’s and con’s were right. I have never felt pain, this bad, in my life. Give me my sinus infection any day, I am going out of my mind with this pain. Hopefully the shot and only one pill will not cause too severe of a withdraw. Glad I found this site.
mc
I have been prescribed Prednisone 20mg 3 tablets for 3 days and then 2 tablets for 3 days and Azithromycin 250mg 2 tablets 1 day and 1 tablet 5 days by ER as they found I have bronchitis and wheezing. Could not sleep on those days. But after they did pulmonary test they have prescribed me again prednisone 20mg 1 tablet daily for 7 days. Also they have put me on Symbicort inhaler 2 puffs every 12 hours for 2 weeks. Has anyone had this?
Steve
Hi everyone I’m 46yrs old now and I was diagnosed with MS ib 1999 my neurologist would put me on a high dose when I had an episode about once a year it was 200mg for three days then reduce by 5mg until I was down to 0. Then it was changed to Solumedrol which was a three day IV.
The stuff was nuts I would eat everything in sight and was wide open cleaning stuff my wife hid the vacuum cleaner from me because I would be using it at night. My boat and motorcycle was spotless but now I have trouble with painful joints knees, hand, fingers and shoulders. I wonder if all of the steroids caused some of these issues now
Jordan
Prednisone has been a god send for me…. I started having severe allergic reactions to almost everything I’ve eaten the last few weeks and lost 16 pounds from not being able to eat. Since being put on prednisone I have been able to return almost back to normal with eating and only experience the euphoria side effect with some minor aggression. please know what you are about to take before going on such a drug but in my case it’s been the best decision until I go see a specialist
Browne
As a Registered Nurse, I have noticed that short term prednisone side effects tend to hit females harder than males. I have taken short term doses of prednisone for hives, allergic contact dermatitis, muscle sprains and acute sinutsitis–about one time every year or two for about a decade. Other than some extra hunger and a little irritability, I have tolerated it well. Countless thousands of patients across the spectrum suffering from COPD to post-transplant patients count on and take steroids daily in order to live. Others take it short term with only minimal side effects.
What I have observed is that the smallest dose necessary should be taken. Patients do not have to be prescribed the standard “dose packs”. The healthcare practitioner can prescribe a much lower, tapered dosing that can be filled by the Pharmacist. Ask your provider if a smaller dose regimen can be taken. For instance, if the doctor wants to prescribe a ten day dose pack of 5 mg. Ask if a lower, customized dose regimen of 2 or 3 mg. may work. Your doctor should be open to this.
Fadedblue
I had been given prednisone because I am allergic to I.V.P. Dye used to give C.T. SCAN. The amount was 20 mg. every 6 hours. After 3 doses my blood sugars were 450 my blood pressure 194 over 84.. could not get sugar levels to go down even with fast acting insulin.
Any one else have this problem? I also have a very red face. irregular heartbeat. They have re-scheduled the scan but I am afraid to take this med. again.
KM
I have moderate to severe asthma, and have been prescribed short tapering bursts my entire life. While I was in college dealing with an acute asthma attack and on prednisone, I became suicidally depressed. It happened again the following year (same reason for prescribing it).
I can take it if the burst is 10mg/day or less, tapers down, and no more than 7 days. The injected form does not seem to have the same side effects. As long as I follow these guidelines the most I have to deal with is a controllable melancholy. Unfortunately, I have other allergies and prednisone is often the only treatment for an acute episode of asthma.
Marie
I am 30 and have had repeated on and off doses of prednisone. My pulmunologist? and my immunologist are extremely understanding about the fact I hate this medicine. Unfortunately it has saved my life numerous times due to my lungs and stupid immune system. So they try to do either quick doses or as low as possible.
My mom and I joke that when I’m on it and you see my cheeks are purple stay out of the way. They tend to get like that and then I get angry. Which I’m usually even tempered. It makes my heart race and I have heart issues too so they watch my heart and I get the sweats and chills. I get the insomnia which I am typing this after having received a high iv dose this morning I feel so sleepy but I’m restless.
I guess what I am saying is this medication is harsh and nasty but sometimes necessary. When needing this long term or even if once or twice a year get a dr you feel you can trust and if you have questions ask them, and if you are still nervous you can call and ask your pharmacist they are great assets to you.
CSS
I have been on 10mg Prednisone for 4 months for Polymialga Runatica and it helped immediately, but now I feel like I am 7 months pregnant with an alien child. My whole mid-section is huge and expends if I eat the smallest amount and it’s hard to the touch. Other than that I have no pain and can walk and do things. However this large massive mid-section is hurting my breathing and makes me look awful (and I am a slim person). I can’t get to see my Doc until 1/8 but I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this on Pred?
Happy New Year to you all, at least I hope it’s Happy!
EJ
I have been on and off Prednisone for the last 8 years and I am still in my 20’s. I suffer from severe asthma that just can’t seem to be controlled even when taking the best medications possible. Well the best medications by doctors standards. Unfortunately I can have flare ups every month or every other month. If I am really good I can go two to three months without an attack or flare up. They can last a few days or a few weeks, it all just depends on the severity of the attack or inflammation and the course of actions the doctors and I choose to treat it. Which they always choose to do breathing treatments and a shot of steroids and then will give me and prescription of Prednisone that is usually 80-60mg for 3 days and I taper down to 5mg over a 10 day period.
I just saw the Pulmonologist who heard a light wheeze in my upper lung after I just came off a seven day taper of Prednisone, So she wanted to put me on 10 mg of Prednisone for three weeks until she saw me for a follow up. It drives me insane. I hate, hate, hate!!!! this stuff. But without it I start to close up and can’t breathe and have no other options and trust me I have been to many physicians. I get the weight gain even if I don’t eat. It makes you feel like you are endlessly hungry like you just can’t get full not matter how much you do eat. The swollen round moon face that takes forever to get it’s shape back. My hands start to peel on long tapers of it. My face breaks out and this is coming from a person who has never had a problem with acne. I have had all my upper teeth on the left side extracted even though I take care of my teeth.
It puts me in this mood where I don’t want to be around anyone because I am so irritable that I don’t want to risk acting out in a rude manner just because I am on this medicine. I have also experienced insomnia on it also even a few days after.
Now I know this medication has terrible side effects and if I had a choice I would not take it. I makes me miserable and my health ironically suffers from it. I fully understand that there are plenty of people who have the option to choose other forms of medications to use I would weigh pros and cons before taking prednisone. For the people like me who have to take prednisone. We can only hope they find some kind of alternative to this drug.
For the asthmatics who take this, I have been trying to limit dairy and meats from my diet and did get tested for everything to make sure I wasn’t allergic to anything. Trying to make yourself healthy and as stress free as possible is the only thing I can come up with to try and stay off prednisone that much longer. Also my dentist said they have seen a lot more cases where the teeth are decaying from medication like this. Their recommendation to try to prolong and or prevent more extractions besides the normal hygiene care, is to make sure to take an extra calcium vitamin with your multi-vitamin and they say those medication can make your mouth very dry which increases a person’s risk of gingivitis, tooth decay, and mouth infections, like thrush. So try and drink water or suck on sugar free candy or even using a room vaporizer to add moisture to the bedroom air.
Most of your friends, your family, they don’t understand how you feel, or how painful this whole process is. That goes for short term and long term use. Being able to express how I feel and reading about other people who have experienced the same symptoms as me. I hope some of this helps a little bit. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone on here.
CA
Howdy CRB,
I completely can relate. I had to be treated for an injury with prednisone and had very similar side effects. I’ll be honest with you and say that I had been administered that same high dose 3 months ago for about 2 weeks and I am still suffering from side effects, but I am able to function in my work environment. The panic attacks are quite rare now. I can see improvement and am told by a more informed doctor than the physician who originally prescribed the drug that side effects can persist from a few days to even 6 months depending on how the prescribed drug affects the individual. But from personal experience, once the apparent side effects reside, the next challenge is gaining confidence in yourself, your decisions, and your ability to preform task. Be patient with your self. Remember this: You will get better. And you will be able to preform as you did before. Just keep in mind that half of the challenge is getting back up again however cliche.
JG
I was prescribed Prednisolone 60mg daily for ulcerative colitis about 25 years ago. The affect it had on me was unforgettable. Not only did I double my weight within a matter of a couple of weeks but I was almost paranoid and completely out of my tree. I have never experienced anything like this in my life. Despite relating this to my rheumatologist, he insisted on putting me on a low dose (7.5mg) which I tolerated. However, I then started using sub-cutaneous Methotrexate and had an adverse reaction which caused a condition similar to polymyalgia.
The Methotrexate was stopped and the steroids increased to 10mg daily. Within 48 hours I started to get chaotic. I was unable to concentrate and I couldn’t complete the simplest task without getting in a muddle. I put up with this for 2 weeks but it was getting worse so I went to see my GP. He didn’t need to be told what was happening – it was obvious. When he read the consultants letter it would seem that he had every intention of increasing the Prednisolone by another 5mg. Thankfully my GP reduced the dose to 7.5mg and is writing to the consultant to tell him that this needs to be reduced over the next few weeks until I am off it completely.
I am weepy, tired and have the most awful vertigo, which may be coincidental. My blood pressure is going through the roof and I think my glucose level is also rising. Believe me, the very small improvement I have had with the rheumatoid arthritis is just not worth taking this dreadful medication. I want to feel normal again.
Patricia
I wish what you said were true. For people like me if we took your advice we could die. I have secondary exogenous adrenal sufficiency that went undiagnosed and flat out ignored for a year. One Dr tried telling me I was depressed. I was slowly dying! I am now on hydrocortisone therapy and praying I will be well again. My kids need me. I want to be healthy again. My acth and cortisol were nearly flat lined. I went to the er 17 times not to forget mention regular Dr appts. The reaction I had is rare and they ignored the obvious signs and neglected to follow standard protocol.
I hope you and everyone posting here is well and doing ok. I’m struggling. I have liver damage from vancomycin and even though the good half of my liver is in great condition the endo won’t allow me past 15mg hydrocortisone even though I have lung infection and taking ampicillin. This sucks! I told the er that I’m allergic to prednisone and they gave me high dose no taper anyway!
Susan
My mother was prescribed 10mg for sudden onset of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and it worked overnight like a charm. However, she was not given much information about this drug. Even now, as she tapers off it, she asks what is the harm in just stopping it altogether. If I were not here reading her these stories, she would have no clue the seriousness of prednisone or the side effects. Next up, acupuncture.
crb
On November 26, 2012.. I went to my primary doctor for complaint of upper back and shoulder pain.. I was prescribed prednisone for 12 days.. I started with 60mg for 4 days, and started tapering dose on 5th day to 40mg… well half way through 5th day.. I began feeling really bad.. I was dizzy, diarrhea, sensitive to heat, just an overall ill feeling.
I called my doctor to let them of the symptoms I was experiencing, I was told by nurse to just stop taking medication immediately. After stopping meds pain came back with a vengeance. Couldn’t sleep, anxiety, tremors, off balance, head feels like it’s in fog, blurred vision, and a number of other symptoms. It’s been about 2 weeks since I stopped the prednisone and I am still not feeling normal..
My doctor says I must have had a bad reaction to the prednisone (you think!) took lab work everything seems to be normal.. did anyone ever have these side effects from taking prednisone? I need some help because it’s affecting my life negatively… I’ve had to miss days from work due to be off balance to the point I could not stand for a long period, I cannot drive or just do any shopping because of the imbalance problem and the bad anxiety attacks I am having… please help… I need answers.
Dee
Latoya…could your ‘migraine’ readlly have been a stroke? My mum had several strokes over a few years before she was diagnosed. It could be that the prednisone caused a stroke that first night? Hope you get well from this.
MP
I was started on predosine 10mg once a day for severe RA pain. I am diabetic, so we weren’t for sure how this was going to effect the sugars. I called the the doctor back as asked and she upped the dose to 20 mg., saying it was too soon to tell anything. Now, I am having terrible indigestion, IBS, and depression so bad I haven’t been out of bed in 3 days except to go to bathroom.
I looked up side effects of the medication and these are some, so I will quit taking the medicine and make my next dr. appt. What aggravates me is that why do Drs think what works for one person works for everyone?
CSS
I devloped debilitaing pain that went on for weeks, only Vicodin seemed to help. It hurt to do anything, sit, walk, even turn a key in the lock. Then I ran into someone who said they had Polymyalgia Rumatica which comes on suddenly, for no reason, usually women over 70 (I am 72) and the only treatment is Prednisone. I researched it on the Internet and yes, all my symptoms matched. I printed it out and took it to my doctor, (who acted like he discovered it) and prescribed 15mg of Pred and in one day the pain was gone!!
In 2 days nothing hurt and that was 4 months ago. I gradually got down to 10Mg but my blood sugar shot up to 225, so now he has me on meds for that, and for cholesterol, and Prozak and Lamotrigine (depression and anxiety, I guess I am bi-polar??) and Vesacare for my weak bladder.
So now I feel REALLY good, nothing hurts but I am a walking pharmacy and that scares me. I am also hooked on Vicodin (500 mg) a day (I don’t really need it, but like how I feel on it) and Ambien (10mg) which I have taken for years.
So here I am a 72 year old lady and a drug addict of sorts. I have considered stopping everything (gradually), but I am so afraid the pain might come back, it was so bad. My fear really is what is this all doing to me. I am not afraid to lose a few years to gain some good years, but it’s really scary. My doctor is really a pill pusher, I don’t think he has a clear picture of all these drugs and what they do, but he is willing to work with me at least, I do all the research. Any comments?
rh
I was put on prednisone for 3days 10mg. 3x daily no tapering, for fliud, due
to osteoarthritis, only 3 days because of numerous medication allergies, now
5 days later,not feeling right, lot of nervousness. Can anyone respond to this.
ET
I have IPF, diagnosed about 8 years ago. I was never allergic to any medicines in the past. About 7 or 8 years ago, I was put on Celebrex, an NSAID and had a terrible allergic reaction to it. I have been having moderate to severe joint pain for several months. A few months ago, we tried Lyrica. I had the same allergic reaction as Celebrex. My doctor put me on a very, very low dose of prednisone (5mg once a day). Within 3 days I was miserable. I had severe abdominal cramping and terrible nausea and I felt like my skin was crawling off of me. I stopped taking the pred immediately and within 3 or so days, all the symptoms went away. I still have the moderate to severe joint pain and take Vicodin for that and I will steer very clear of prednisone in the future.
Corey
Hey guys, I just got done reading all of these comments, they have put me at ease. I had bronchitis a couple of days ago and was prescribed predisone 20 mg, tapering doses. I was sooo afraid I was going to die, I have racing heart rates and near fainting spells, coupled with diarrhea and incessant hunger, I thought the bronchitis was causing my heart to race and dizzy spacey feelings that lasted for hours, but after searching this and other comment boards I have concluded that predisone is the problem, I wish had known this before and I wouldn’t have wasted my money on this drug, it may have helped me get over bronchitis but at a very severe cost. I didn’t know it affected so much, today I took the remainder of the pills and fell asleep and woke up thinking I was having a heart attack, racing pulse, I was so dizzy and afraid, thinking back every time I took predisone I had horrible racing pulse and near fainting spells, I just blamed this on the bronchitis at the time but now I know better, I hope all you guys feel better and me too. I wished the doctor had warned me but he didn’t at all
EllieM
I was just put on a Prednisone “pack”. 60mg for 2 days, 40mg for 2 days, and then 20mg for two days after a SEVERE allergic reaction to something at the hospital I am employed. I ended up having to use my Epi-Pen it was so bad. This morning I woke up and my face is super swollen and my ears are ringing. My face is bright red and I have a super upset stomach. (I’m also 9 1/2 weeks post-op from gastric bypass.) But all this considered, it’s better than than having another allergic reaction and having to do another dose of Epinephrine. I count myself blessed for now. Hopefully the swelling will go down and I’ll get some energy back soon. c:
SRG
all i can say is prednisone is awfull even for animals. I was given prednisone for my poor dog who has a rash on his snout that wont go away and he keeps scratching it making it bleed. and since he started on this he sleeps for two minuts tops before twitching awake. He cant walk on one of his legs like its sprained which it is not he has always had a little limp in that let but this prednisone made him pretty well imobile. this is just a awful drug for animals or humans to take. I sure hope these side effects dont last as I want my best friend back ive had for 14yrs now..
Niven S.
Had a nasty choking cough and virus for 4 weeks to start with I was given amoxicillin and a nasal spray as sinuses were infected they didn’t work at all, on returning back to the doctor was prescribed 30mg prednisolone 6 5mg tablets per day for two weeks and I’ve never felt so rough in my life no sleep at all for the first 4 days then averaging about 2 hours per night after, also feeling very clammy, irritable, head feeling light one minute then heavy the next, feeling very hungry at silly times of the night even after normal meals, anxious and disorientated.
I am currently also taking 20mg oxycontin and paracetamol for spondelosis in my lower back as waiting on surgery, also recently been diagnosed with syringomyelia in upper area of back to be honest I’m 42 years of age and don’t know whether my doctor is trying to play russian roulette or to actually sort my medical situation out. I’ve been waiting 4 years for surgery which is crazy.
I would recommend alternative treatment rather than prednisolone myself if available as its very unpleasant and even though I have finished the 2 week course have no real clue as to how long these side effects will last or how to improve side effects but thankfully haven’t ended up with a moon face.
LT
This is the scariest drug ever! I was put on it for 3 weeks for a terrible case of poison ivy. I tapered off like I was told and that was 7 days ago and I feel like I am getting worse everyday. I am shaking so bad I can barely work. My vision is messed up, and I feel confused and am having trouble driving. Today I started throwing up and have the chills. My face is so swollen I am embarrassed to go anywhere. I feel like I am having a heart attack.
I checked on every website looking for a way to stop this, but I haven’t found an answer. I will never take this again. I don’t wish this hell on anyone!
JIK
Hi June, I’m a nurse, not an MD, but is it possible you could have been suffering from a chronic depression? Then when you took the prednisone it gave you a temporary relief. A side effect of prednisone can be a euphoria like feeling. Maybe you just need an anti-depressant. You can not stay on prednisone indefinitely..it has pretty nasty side effects. Good luck to you. JK
PEOPLE’S PHARMACY RESPONSE: Side effects of prednisone include headache, insomnia, mood swings, nervousness, fluid retention, dizziness, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, red spots on the skin (including the face), glaucoma, menstrual problems, poor wound healing, hives, and low potassium. Long term effects include cataracts, infection, impaired immunity and Cushing syndrome. This is not something you want to sign up except strictly as needed.
Mimie
I was given the pill because of inflammation, using for past 8 years now I can feel that it weakened my bones and I can’t live without it. can anyone help me, it really helps but destroying my life slowly.
jack e
I have been on prednisone off and on for theree years. I have Ulcerative Colitis and after each hospital stay (4 in the last 3 years) I start on 40mg. It does help my UC but the side effects are terrible…. moon face, stomach swelling, weakness in legs, dizziness, total inability to function normally.
June F.
I have been on prednisone for11 days, 30, 20, 10, 5mg. I have never felt better, not in years. I have to say, now that I’m on 5mg., I’m back to being stressed out and extremely irritable. While I was on the higher dosage, I felt like I hadn’t felt in years, me! I’ve thought a lot lately about where I went to, I was a happy, joyful person. I wondered what happened to me, then I developed another respiratory and sinus infection and hence, the prednisone.
I had forgotten what it was like to feel like me, for whatever reason, the prednisone brought that back. I was happy, not grumpy, tired, short-tempered and miserable. I had totally forgotten what it felt like to be me. Now that I’m on the 5mg. dose, I don’t feel that way. I want to feel like me again.
It was so wonderful to finally have energy and happiness again. My question is, what do I do to get that back? Can I take 10mg. of prednisone without harmful side effects and if not, what could be the cause of me finally feeling like myself again? Are there any test that can be done to determine the reason for this? Could I have an adrenal gland problem? Help???
joe
A week ago I was put on a low dose of prednisone. 20mg once daily. Beside feeling disconnected, I also developed an irregular heart beat, a ringing in my ears every so often and a vague feeling of diminished hearing, and a slight tinnitus, weird noises in my ears might be more specific. I don’t see hearing issues as one of prednisone’s side effects but it seems odd this came on within 24-36 hours after starting my treatment. Is it possible prednisone is causing this? On a side-note I like to say this is a horrible drug, unless I’m on the verge of a catastrophic bodily failure of some kind I’ll never take this stuff again. I talked to my rheumotologist today and I’m being reduced from 20 mg to 10 mg once daily, maybe this will help.
js
I was put on a daily dose of 120 mg of Prednisone for “inflammation” from sudden hearing loss in one ear, and took this for ten days, starting a couple days after waking up with the total deafness. About six weeks after completing this course, I am still have complete deafness, with the muscles that open and close the Eustachian tube remaining immobilized from extensive nerve damage.
Far from being a miraculous cure, while taking Prednisone I thought the extent of its damage would be getting an ulcer, with nausea, gagging, vomiting and dry heaves (it was prescribed with Prilosec, which didn’t prevent this outcome – that side effect seems resolved now).
But afterwards, I began to notice skin wrinkling (legs, trunk, arms, etc.), along with sagging from loss of muscle tone (and probably collagen) – this ‘skin thinning’ and tissue degeneration seems to be getting worse daily. There has also been the constant ‘taste’ of the drug in my mouth between meals, and my teeth becoming sensitive to cold (especially the front teeth). Ankle tendon weakness has also been an issue. Apparently Prednisone suppresses the immune system, and can cause hormonal problems, particularly with adrenals, as well as weaken bones and joints.
While anyone losing their hearing may be desperate enough to risk these adverse effects, they should be made aware of how grave the negative aspects can be, and that successful outcomes are for the statistically lucky.
MV
been on pred for four weeks and now tapering down. first time had a short burst for three days ended up with asthma attack! so had to have more prescribed. now on 20mg a day until tomorrow then 10mg – but today I have just been in bed with upset stomach, temperature and flu like feeling. was supposed to be back at work so had to call in again (after 3 weeks off already). looking online I believe it is the side effects of tapering. fortunately I have hosp appoint next week (finally been referred). but I feel absolutely bloody lousy. reading others thoughts has been helpful. I just want to feel like me again. not gained weight as no appetite much but that’s not good either. I feel all over the show and very emotional. thanks for listening
Latoya C.
In June of 2011 I was given prednisone because my leg mysteriously went numb from my knee on down. I was told I “could” have had a pinched nerve. The ER doc gave me 20mg to take twice a day for 5 days. I was told nothing about tapering or anything. On day 1 of taking the meds I immediately went into a zombie state. I didn’t know what day it was, what I did the day before I was completely out of touch with reality. I called the ER doc which they wouldn’t let me talk to, my own doc and the pharmacy. They all told me it couldn’t be the prednisone. Silly me knowing that it was, pushed my self telling my self I only had 4 days left to take it.
Even my co-workers said that I was acting weird. I woke up on day 7, 2 days after finishing my dose to a massive, massive migraine. It was so severe it woke me up out of my sleep. It took everything I had to focus enough to drive my self safely to the ER. The pain was so bad I literally felt I was on my way to meet my maker and that my affairs were not complete, my kids were so small and all I could do was cry, squirm and clinch the bed rails in pain. I was given a cat scan and put on 3 different pain meds to stop the pain. The docs in the ER said again it couldn’t be the prednisone and that I just suffered a mid life migraine. I argued with them until I was tired of talking. I never had any migraines in my life and since that day I haven’t had one.
Since that episode I now suffer massive memory loss. I can’t cook by myself because I forget as soon as I walk away. I can’t remember what I wore or did the day before. I can’t keep up with anything in the house. I walk out of the room and always forget what I was doing. I get lost in all my sentences. I can’t remember times or appointments. I forget simple math and how to spell simple words. I am even struggling now to type this. I am 28 years old who has graduated with a 4.0 in the top 10 of my class.
I try to tell my self it will get better. It has been a year and a half and I am getting worse. I can’t remember anything past a 2 minute mark of doing, saying or hearing it. I hear a weird swoosh sound of my heart beat in my ears and each time I have blood drawn I can hear the valve release of my blood going through the needle. I am ruined. I have been turned into a near vegetable just from a 5 day dose. I cry everyday because I know eventually I will need a live-in assistant or family member because I won’t be able to care for me or my children.
LP
I have Lupus and have had problems with my eyes. I get Uveitis frequently sometimes when I have let this go too long I have actually had blisters on my Iris. I was on these Pred Forte drops and while they work well for this I ended up with cataracts in both eyes which was directly because of this drug. I have had cataract surgery and everything is good now.
lp
I have had Lupus for 40 years and feeling like a lab rat is just part of the disease because of the way it is different for each person and even the symptoms and the way it shows up change often. It is a very hard disease to diagnose and treat because of this. The best thing that you can do for yourself is to stay as positive as you can, find a doctor that will listen to you and respects your opinion and most importantly rely on the strength of the Lord and others.
Doctors know medicine but you know your body best. I can also tell you that my Lupus has had many manifestations over the years and at the beginning they tried Prednisone and it just didn’t work. Later in life and with a different symptom it now works. Even though the side effects can be horrible (I cant sleep and have had bone deterioration, cataracts in both eyes, and dry mouth which has caused oral problems) it has been my only saving grace in some moments of crisis when I had meningitis and brain tumors. So the moral is that with this ever changing disease, you may also have drugs that change how they work too. Good luck with your search for a new physician.
P. E. P.
I was given Prednisone after an allergic reaction to Zithromax. While taking the Prednisone, I developed a racing heart and anxiety all over my body. It was like someone had plugged me into an electrical outlet. I only took the Prednisone for about two weeks but the anxiety lasted for 19 months. I had to see a psychiatrist and take large doses of Klonopin to try to keep the anxiety under control.
We tried anti-depressants with anxiety properties as well. However, it took my body 19 months to accept Desiprimine. This is the only AD that my body would accept during this time. All the others that we tried just ramped me up more. My life changed drastically. I went from being a normal 48 year old woman to an invalid. My job suffered and my life has totally changed. This was the scariest experience of my life. I thought of suicide many times. The doctor couldn’t tell when or if the anxiety would lessen with time or go away. It has just finally started subsiding after 19 months. I found out after the fact that people who suffer from depression are more likely to experience side effects when taking steroids. I will never take this drug again unless it’s the only way to save my life!!
Kathy
I took prednisone for eyes and had terrible muscle weakness. It went away for 5 days and came back again. I am still having weakness a month later. I am not sure if it is related to prednisone eye med. The 5 day thing started when I ate some food that I had been avoiding on a health diet. it sounds crazy, but I do not know if it was prednisone or food, but it is awful.
Did you have any negative side effects from prednisone for eyes?
JM
I was on extremely high doses of prednisone for 6 months to treat kidney disease. I alternated between a chemo drug and the steroid. I took 120 mg. a day, with 3 days of an IV push every other month. I had to quit my job, I had hallucinations like you would not believe! I was shaking so much it was more like a seizure! I developed weird obsessions while I was on them. I could not drive or hardly walk through a store. The side effects were overwhelming. But it did put my kidney disease into remission and save me from transplant. I would not want to repeat the experience. I do have a lot of bone joint, teeth issues now because of the high steroid doses. It is a nasty drug, but effective
DBA
My doctor prescribed azithromycin 250mg tablets 6-pak on Sept. 5 2012 for bronchitis still not feeling the best went back to the doctor Sept. 25 now I have a severe sinus infection so an additional 10 days prescibed to take 25 mg of prednisone and everything has been out of wack like so confused.
Oct 5th my last day and I am so glad, I have been eating constantly breaking out in sweats and they come more often especially when I am out as work in the public eye. I stay confused, can’t function, dizzy off balance, insomnia, chest pains for at least two nights I felt if I was having a heart attack got up and took a low dose 81mg aspirin. One night my legs kept having these spasms in my thighs, I’m like God what is going on.
Although I go to work I can’t stay my thoughts were just running all over the place, I felt like something was making me sick in the building and causing me not to be able to think straight, so in order not to lead on to the other employees I just leave for fear that I was having a nervous breakdown or worse is she crazy. My last dose of the prednisone was Oct 5, still not sleeping, start to try and explain to my husband and he says stop saying it so that it doesn’t affect you, pray, I know that as to make me feel like it’s just a faze or something; that’s when I got up and decided to check this thing out at first I thought I don’t feel like taking the time out to type out how this has affected me then I remembered it’s just like the gospel if you don’t tell about it won’t work so in that essence this my testimony to this medicine in hopes that someone else can be better informed and hope that it does not take a long term affect on me. In conclusion, I will not take this medicine.
sm
My doctor prescribed prednisone for Lupus and now I am worse than I was before. I was anxious, unable to sleep and my mind was foggy until I stopped taking this poison.
I am on Plaquenal now and I feel like crap. The doctors do not care or even listen to you. I went to the Rhumetologist and had to be examined by a med student which took forever and when the doctor finally came into the office it was like they talked to each other like I was not even there. The med student did not advise the doctor of everything I said so I feel I was not properly looked after just treated like a lab rat.
Sam
I am 11lb female was prescribed 30mg/day for systemic itchy skin rash. After just 2 dosages I had: severe irregular heartbeats- I was sure I would die; severe stomach pain, severe lower back pain where I could not walk straight;heavy mid-period menstrual bleeding. It had no effect on the rash, despite doctor’s assurance that it will be cleared in 24hr. Stomach and lower back pain lasted for close 3 weeks.
Alison
Thanks so much, Chris, for your comment. It is reassuring to know that there will be an end to this; and the side effects are lessening for which I am truly relieved. The last two days my back started hurting and a hot rice “sock” that my daughter made us for Christmas one year, helps relieve the pain. Just wondered if it could be a reaction this long after taking prednisone. On one sight I found a year as a possible duration and on another someone claimed that it could last as long as 6 years. Let’s hope not. Again thanks!
Jeff
HI.. I am facing the same problems with my Mother. She has crohn’s disease and She has been taking prednisone for almost 30 years. And I can see now that it is really effecting her emotionally very much. I think depression is taking control over her, but I really don’t know for sure if that’s all due to prednisone or other things like getting old??
Anyways I am desperate and I don’t know what to do anymore, as I always try to get her to see a doctor or a consultant she keeps telling the is no use and they are gonna say the same things that doctors have been telling me all these years. I feel useless but I never stop trying to make her feel better and make her happy, however it hasn’t been beneficial lately.
I hope if anyone can give me a tip or a piece of information that would help me, I would be soo grateful.
Thanks
Chris D.
I took prednisone for 8 months. After being tapered off it, it took about a month or two before I felt normal again. Don’t worry the side effects will clear up…it just takes time.
J.W.
Terry and Joe,
Thanks for all your work over the years. I read that you have personally had sudden hearing loss and how is it going. On August 15th 2012 I woke up not hearing out of my right ear. I went to my primary care and was told I had a blocked Eustachian tube and was told to chew gum and give it time. Two days later it was no better and I left a message with the doctor’s nurse and she called back saying they were calling in a prescription for 50 mg prednisone to reduce inflammation (I assume for the middle ear or Eustachian tube) I tried it and my head went crazy. It was too much and I stopped it. I called the next day and said it was too strong and they said “call an ENT specialist” and gave me a couple of names. I called them and it was nearly a week until I could get an appointment
The specialist took one look, did a pressure test and hearing test and said sudden hearing loss and he sees about one a week. He said there is about a three week window if you catch it in time. It had already been two weeks. He gave me a prescription for prednisone and this time a taper up to 40mg and hold that for a week and then taper down. I read later that it is best “cured” the soon after the onset you catch it, the better.Thanks to my primary care physician I may have permanent hearing loss, bummer.
Prednisone is the bad boy of medicine but they say it is the best thing for this malady. I would not give this drug to my worst enemy. I feel like I have two heads and neither one of them can hear out the right side at all. I think it is getting worse if anything. I am nervous, anxious, blood pressure is up (ENT specialist said it doesn’t raise blood pressure, well it does too!)It has wrecked my life. I can’t do simple tasks without forgetting basic things and I get confused going to places I know like the back of my hand. I hope and pray this stuff works, being suddenly deaf is more than depressing, it is devastating.
PEOPLE’S PHARMACY RESPONSE: Prednisone often does work for this kind of sudden hearing loss. When it works, it is worth putting up with the side effects. As you say, they can be awful!
Alison
Hi! Wish I had the answers for so many of you. I need answers, too, and turned to our heavenly Father for those, but like the story of Paul with the thorn in his side (whatever that symbolized), the Lord answered our prayers by keeping me alive. Prednisone saved my life when my constant asthmatic attacks (episodes) took its toll on my immune system. Had to stop work March 30th – just like that if I wanted to live long enough to enjoy retirement. Planned on working until 75 or 80 as I’ve taught middle school for 42 years and love the kids and my Sunday School kids. The doctor said to get away from those carrying the germs that were making me so sick. Since then the asthma part is great – good peak flow, feel better generally, and thank God for that and my pulmonary specialist – she saved my life with God’s help!
Now here are my adverse prednisone reactions: swollen feet, painful feet, edema, sudden and continual pain in right upper arm, then lower arm; repeated on left side, memory confusion, then with swollen hard to walk on feet my toe next to the big toe on my left foot which was also swollen and did not even look like a toe started oozing blood, pus, and was an awful mess. My primary care gave me antibiotics to help clear up the infection. It pretty much healed with this weird wart like growth on the end of it. Soaked it in epsom salts; it fell off; then came back and is still there – dark, sore, cannot cut it off or file it down – too painful. Now my right foot feels like it’s fractured or at least badly sprained. All the blood tests came back normal. Supposed to have a MRI to check for spinal stenosis as my primary care doctor says it is not an adverse prednisone reaction.
I’ve searched spinal stenosis and don’t have the symptoms as far as pain is supposed to be when you are up walking around and disappear at rest. My pain and numbness come when I’m sleeping, and are greatly helped by doing Lesley Sansone workouts! FURTHERMORE, my pain and numbness with the total difficulty of actually feeling my feet to even walk around taking me 15 minutes in the night to get to the bathroom is my biggest complaint now. Any suggestions from any of you who have been on prednisone?
This last 21 taper of prednisone was started May 13th, Mother’s Day, when I came down with a horrible flu/asthma episode and slept in my Husband’s recliner for 10 days and had him worried sick after he had a serious seizure (I thought I was a widow for sure.). But praise God he is doing wonderfully well and I’m doing well in the asthma department, but terrible in the after effect of prednisone and wonder just how long it will last???
Terri
I was prescribed prednisone couple months ago for bulging disc in back and took it for for 5 days 40 mgs twice a day with no tapering no probs. A month and a half later was having back problems again so he said it should be ok to take the prednisone again same dosage. I took it and the last day I was on it I started getting rapid heart rate, then next few weeks got sick, no appetite, diarrhea,and my skin will feel like its on fire off and on ear ringing, head tingling, burning on side of head, so I went back to docs office and found out I had lost over 13 pounds since I took the prednisone again, doc couldn’t figure anything out so he did all kinds of test and everything came back normal.
So he assumed it was cause he put me back on prednisone too fast and didn’t taper me off so I’m on 18 day tapering and have 3 days left. I still have the rapid heart rate and and ear ringing came back on one side and causing vision problems off and on. I will NEVER take this drug again!! Is there anyone else having these symptoms like mine? Any feedback would be appreciated, i feel like I’m goin out of my dang mind!!!!
GQ
Hi, I had a severe reaction to medication that I was given to treat a parasite – Blastocystis Hominis – I ballooned, looking 9 months pregnant, and my weight sky rocketed in a matter of days – my GP then prescribed Prednisone to counter act the reaction to the meds to treat the parasite – But I reacted to the Prednisone – I should note that the GP wrote the incorrect dosage down and I took too many pills resulting in an overdose of the prednisone – I was informed by the doctors at the emergency hospital that this would not cause any side effects and to not take anymore pills.
Since that time (almost 2 years) I have had chronic fatigue, weight gain (almost 20kilos), fluid retention and exhaustion. I was sent to an endocrinologist who informed me that Prednisone can cause insulin resistance hence my inability to lose weight & feel normal. The endocrinologist put me on Metformin only my fluid retention was shocking – I could barely walk so I took myself off it – I can honestly say that Prednisone is bad news.
It only made the reaction that I was having to the parasite meds much worse -I want to know how long these meds stay in one’s system – Can they linger in the kidneys or cause liver or other organ damage?
kvm
hello.. I was put on Prednisone 12 day taper 9 days ago for what my doctor thought to be fatty gout in finger. I had taken the methprednisone in the past with no side effects so he said I should not have problems. I have a very important job and cannot afford to be off work. I began my prednisone that day at 40 mg by the time I got to day 4 where I just took 30 I awoke after just one hour sleep soaking wet and shaking like I had the flu. I could not fall asleep after that. The nausea was unrelenting and was burning up all over.
The next day I could not work.. I called the doc and he told me to just take 20 mg that day and then just 10 mg the next and stop. I did that. Today is jut 2 days after I stopped and I have exhaustion and fever and nausea. I hope this passes. My gout or whatever it is, is back with a vengeance and I feel like crying. I heard horror stories about the drug causing side effects for a long time but I was only on 6 days. Do you think it will be out of my system soon? This is horrible and can’t function like this all because of a swollen joint.
Roy
About 12 years ago I wasn’t breathing well and the doctor prescribed about 7 to 10 days of Prednisone and was sure to tell me to gradually ease off of it which I did.
It did give me a great new feeling of energy and I could breathe.
However I gained about 50 lbs in 3 days. My hand fed my face non-stop all the days long. I’m still trying to loose that extra weight. I have told doctors since then that I do not EVER want Prednisone unless it is all that will save my life.
I think I will also say I am ‘allergic’ to it for good measure.
SLO
There are a few of us out there that MUST take this drug because it is the only course of treatment for ABPA (allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis) I was on 50 mg. to start with because of 4 years of misdiagnosis until I finally found a pulmonary doctor who recognized my symptoms immediately & did the necessary tests that verified the disease. My IGe levels are monitored monthly & determine whether I can go up or down on Prednisone dosage.
Right now I’m living successfully on 5 mg. It is a love/hate relationship that I have with Prednisone: it cleared my 4 year cough in 2 weeks, have only had 1 relapse so far & am grateful for that. But: I’ve gained 10 lbs., must watch very closely what I eat so as not to gain more, have the tummy lump,the back fat & round face to show for other side effects. This drug & I will be partners for life or until someone finds a cure for ABPA.
Mary
Prednisone was prescribed for me to counteract a toxic reaction to potassium iodide which was prescribed for erythema nodosum. I didn’t sleep at all for two nights, had hallucinations right out of hell, had fever, chills, lack of bowel control, strange feeling in my head and became extremely weak. Weeks later I had tendon problems in my ankles, but fortunately, they did not rupture. I was not informed of possible side effects by my doctor. Wouldn’t recommend this drug to anyone. Now, I don’t have a prescripion filled until I’ve checked the internet for reactions others have experienced. To be sure I was in serious danger from the toxic condition, but I would not want to take Prednisone again for any reason.
Peg O.
I use Prednisolone as eye drops since having my retina detach. Could there be the same side effects from drops?
AWC
I took this last year for hives (mold in the basement) After 9 days on tapered dose I still had the hives but had the cleanest house ever! I am retired so I did not have to leave the house.
shaden
I absolutely hated taking this medicine…
dar
I was prescribed Prednisone at the onset of my MS. No info re possible side effects was given. Two dentists and an oral surgeon have now told me that my tooth loss and jaw bone deterioration are directly related to taking this drug. About three years ago, my teeth suddenly started breaking off and becoming infected. I’ve now had all my teeth extracted, and have had skin grafting for the tissue loss. I would never take this drug again, and have told others about my situation.
DS
I’d like to see the comments on this.
Christy T.
I took Prednisone last year for a severe allergic reaction. I was prescribed a pack with a declining dose. Knowing I tend to over-react to medications anyway, I decided to take 1/2 the dose prescribed each day. Even with that reduced dose, I did not sleep that week, lost all ability to digest food, and five days into the meds, I honestly thought I was going to die that night. I said my final goodbyes to my husband, declined his offer to take me to the emergency room, and simply assumed I would not awake the next day.
Since that time, I have declared myself allergic to that drug so it will not be given to me again. I do understand what a life-saver it is, and it certainly did stop the allergic reaction. But I do hope, “never again.”
EQB
Although I have bipolar disorder, my doctor prescribed Prednisone for an ear problem. What followed was a full-blown manic episode which lasted two months despite treatment. It also led indirectly into lithium toxicity, which wasn’t resolved for several weeks. I basically lost three months of useful existence. Now I advise doctors’ offices that I am allergic to Prednisone so they flag my chart. In checking information later, I found that bipolar patients should never be prescribed Prednisone or other oral steroids.
LR
High doses of corticosteroids are dangerous, and very often unnecessary at that dosage level. Any physician prescribing these type of drugs should first read the book “Safe Uses of Cortisone” by Dr. William McKesson Jeffries. Jeffries was a pioneer in the field of cortisone use in humans.