Prednisone: How Safe Is It?

Short and Long Term Side Effects Every Patient Should Know

At the age of fifteen I was first introduced to Prednisone. Having been diagnosed with Crohn's, an intestinal disease, Prednisone was the first and main method of attack. I knew nothing of the drug or any of its side effects. My doctor, at the time, didn't bother to inform me of what to expect. The doctors themselves may have known what to expect as far as short-term effects, but I believe, back then, they didn't fully understand the consequences of long-term use, as they do now.

For those who've never heard of the drug, Prednisone is a synthetic hormonal steroid. It's produced naturally in the body under the name of Cortisone, which is produced in the adrenal gland and is closely related to Cortisol, also produced in the adrenal gland. Cortisone is mostly inactive in the body until it is converted to Cortisol (known synthetically as hydrocortisone.)

The function of natural Cortisone is to regulate actions in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, sodium, potassium, and proteins, as well as being an anti-inflammatory agent. It's this last feature that has made Prednisone a drug of choice in the treatment not just for Crohn's disease, but also for afflictions such as rheumatoid arthritis, slipped or herniated discs, and asthma.

Prednisone is cheap and widely used. It may also be used for jumping starting menses in teen-aged girls, and to treat allergic reactions such as those associated with bee stings. When used for these purposes, it is usually given for a briefer duration. However, two week treatments won't stop the short-term side effects, of which there are many.