Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Prednisone Technical or medical terms: Prednisone, immediate release or delayed release, oral, 1 mg (J7512)

Summary

Prednisone is an oral medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It is used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various medical conditions.

Purpose

Prednisone is primarily used to treat conditions that involve inflammation, allergic reactions, and autoimmune disorders. The goals are to reduce symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain, and to improve overall function and quality of life.

Indications

• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, colitis, and lupus
• Allergic reactions that do not respond to other treatments
• Autoimmune diseases where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues
• Some types of cancer and severe asthma

Preparation

Patients may need to adjust current medications and avoid certain foods that interact with prednisone. Blood tests or other diagnostic tests might be necessary to check the patient's overall health and readiness for treatment.

Procedure Description

1. Prednisone is prescribed by a healthcare provider.
2. The patient receives the medication in oral form, either as an immediate release or delayed release tablet.
3. The dosage and frequency depend on the medical condition and response to treatment.
4. Patients are advised to take the medication with food to minimize stomach upset.

Duration

Prednisone can be prescribed for short-term use (days to weeks) or long-term use (months or years), depending on the condition being treated.

Setting

Prednisone is typically taken at home, as it is an oral medication.

Personnel

• Prescribing physician
• Pharmacist
• Primary care provider for monitoring

Risks and Complications

• Common: weight gain, fluid retention, elevated blood sugar, mood changes
• Rare: osteoporosis, peptic ulcers, hypertension, increased susceptibility to infections

Benefits

Reduction in inflammation and alleviation of associated symptoms, often within a few days to weeks of starting the medication.

Recovery

If prednisone is discontinued, it should be done gradually under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments may be necessary.

Alternatives

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Immunosuppressants
• Biologic agents Each alternative has its own set of benefits and risks, and the choice depends on the specific condition and patient factors.

Patient Experience

Patients might experience relief from symptoms within a few days of starting prednisone. Side effects like increased appetite, mood swings, or trouble sleeping might occur and should be managed with the help of healthcare providers.