What is the most important information I should know about Deltasone (Prednisone)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to prednisone, or if you have a fungal infection anywhere in your body. Before taking prednisone, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, and about all other medicines you are using. There are many other diseases that can be affected by steroid use, and many other medicines that can interact with steroids.Your steroid medication needs may change if you have any unusual stress such as a serious illness, fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Tell your doctor about any such situation that affects you during treatment. Steroid medication can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to get an infection or worsening an infection you already have or have recently had. Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are taking prednisone. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking a steroid, in case of emergency.

How should I take Deltasone (Prednisone)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.Your steroid medication needs may change if you have unusual stress such as a serious illness, fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Prednisone.Do not stop using prednisone suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. Store prednisone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Deltasone (Prednisone) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• problems with your vision
• swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath
• severe depression, unusual thoughts or behavior, seizure (convulsions)
• bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood
• pancreatitis (severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate)
• low potassium (confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling) or
• dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).

Less serious side effects may include:

• sleep problems (insomnia), mood changes
• acne, dry skin, thinning skin, bruising or discoloration
• slow wound healing
• increased sweating
• headache, dizziness, spinning sensation
• nausea, stomach pain, bloating or
• changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.