Prednisone - Overview

Prednisone is a prescription medication used to reduce inflammation and suppress overactive immune responses in certain conditions. Push Health can help people who might need a prednisone prescription connect with a medical provider who can prescribe the medication when appropriate to do so.

What Is Prednisone Used For?

Prednisone belongs to a class of medications known as corticosteroids and used to reduce inflammation and suppress overactive immune responses in certain conditions. Prednisone may be prescribed for a broad range of conditions, including:

• Allergic reactions - contact dermatitis, severe hives, poison ivy, drug reactions
• Asthma and COPD exacerbations
• Arthritis - rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout flares
• Skin conditions - severe eczema, bullous pemphigoid, other inflammatory dermatoses
• Sinus inflammation - acute bacterial sinusitis with significant swelling
• Autoimmune conditions - lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, vasculitis, multiple sclerosis relapses
• Organ transplant rejection prevention

Prednisone is typically prescribed in generic form and has also been marketed under the names Deltasone, Rayos, Sterapred and others. Prednisone is synthetic and is derived from cortisone.

Prednisone - Dosage and Cost

The prednisone dose depends on the condition being treated and the prescribing provider's judgment. Prednisone medication is generally available in strengths of 1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mg. Short-course regimens for acute conditions such as allergic reactions, asthma flares, or inflammatory conditions typically start at 20-60 mg daily and taper over several days to weeks. Long-term, low-dose regimens for chronic inflammatory conditions may use 5 mg or less daily. The appropriate dose is determined by the prescribing medical provider based on the individual patient's situation.

Generic prednisone is considered affordable, costing under thirty cents per pill at many pharmacies in the United States. Branded versions are more expensive. In some cases, insurance may help with medication costs. Prednisone prescription discount cards may also be available online.

Can I Buy Prednisone Online?

Prednisone is a prescription medication in the United States and is not available over-the-counter. Push Health can help people who need a prednisone prescription connect with a licensed medical provider who can prescribe the medication to a local or delivery pharmacy when appropriate to do so.

Prednisone - Mechanism of Action

The active metabolite of prednisone binds to glucocorticoid receptors and inhibits inflammatory cells and the expression of inflammatory chemicals. The medication is primarily used to reduce the amount of inflammation in the body in conditions such as asthma and COPD and suppress the immune system in conditions such as arthritis. It is also used in the management of some people with nephrotic syndrome. The medication is similar to dexamethasone (Decadron), hydrocortisone and methylprednisolone (Medrol Dosepak) in activity. Prednisone is converted into its active form, prednisolone, in the liver and is removed from the body via the urine and the bile.

Prednisone - Side Effects

Common short-course side effects from prednisone use include increased appetite, fluid retention, insomnia, mood changes, and higher blood sugar.

Other side effects can occur when prednisone is used at a higher dose or for a longer period of time:

• Infection
• Bone loss
• Weight gain
• Higher blood pressure
• Stomach irritation (risk increases with NSAIDs)
• Adrenal suppression if a long course is stopped suddenly

Live vaccines should generally be avoided during high-dose or prolonged therapy. Older adults may face higher risks of infection, glucose rise, bone loss, and confusion. Seek care for severe mood changes, black stools, vision changes, or signs of serious infection. Prednisone withdrawal is another side effect and a taper is often done after a long period of use.

Alcohol should generally be avoided while taking prednisone as it can irritate the stomach lining and affect blood sugar levels. People with a known hypersensitivity to the medication should avoid using it. Direct any questions to your medical provider.

How To Get A Prednisone Prescription at Push Health

1. Submit your health history. Answer a few questions about your health, why you're seeking prednisone, current medications, and relevant medical history.
2. Connect with a licensed medical provider online. A medical provider will review your request and connect with you.
3. Get a prednisone prescription. When appropriate, your medical provider will send your prednisone prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.
4. Pick up your prescription or have it delivered. Generic prednisone is available at most retail pharmacies and typically costs under 30 cents per tablet. No health insurance or subscription is required.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.

More Prednisone Information

• Prednisone - Medline