What is Prednisone?
Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and swelling. It can be effective at treating hives, a skin condition characterized by itchy, red bumps on the skin. Hives are often triggered by allergens such as certain foods (nuts, eggs or shellfish are examples), pollen, animal dander or medications. While it’s generally not a serious condition and doesn’t always require treatment, severe itching or chronic cases will require treatment.
Prednisone can help alleviate swelling and itching, making it beneficial for treating hives.
How does Prednisone work?
The exact way in which Prednisone works isn’t fully understood. But it’s known to counteract the body’s autoimmune response, which can cause it to release histamine in response to an allergic trigger, and causes inflammation.1 By acting against this response, Prednisone can help to reduce swelling and inflammation and provides relief from itching.
Will I get side effects using Prednisone?
There’s a possibility of experiencing side effects while taking Prednisone, although not everyone will get them.
Side effects may include mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, confusion, or memory loss (frequency not known). If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to inform your doctor immediately.
Other side effects might occur when using Prednisone long-term, including:
- Feeling sick
- Indigestion
- Hiccups
- Stomach discomfort
- Tiredness
These side effects are typically mild and resolve once you stop treatment. If you have any concerns, contact your physician.
What doses of Prednisone are there?
Prednisone comes in one dose of 20mg. It’s taken twice a day for 14 days.
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