What is Prednisone?

Featuring Dr. John Wade, MD, FRCPC, Rheumatologist

Duration: 1 minute, 23 seconds

Prednisone is a medication that we use to treat inflammation. The inflammation can be in the joints, in the skin, in the muscles, in the lungs, and the kidneys.

Prednisone is a very effective medication in controlling inflammation, and if prednisone did not have any side effects, we would be treating diseases very well. Unfortunately, because prednisone has side effects, we often need to reduce the dose, and as we reduce the dose, the inflammation may come back.

Prednisone comes in the form of a pill. There are three strengths; the common strength is a 5 milligram tablet, but other strengths include a 50 milligram tablet, and a 1 milligram tablet. So, when we start a high dose we may use a 50 milligram tablet, rather than having to use a lot of smaller pills. But as we reduce the dose we’ll typically use 5 milligram tablets, and as we get very low on trying to wean off of prednisone, we’ll often switch to 1 milligram tablets.

Prednisone dosing and reduction is important, so if you have any questions or concerns, speak to your healthcare provider or your specialist.

Presenter: Dr. John Wade, Rheumatologist, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Rheumatologist