How Prednisone 20mg Tablets Help Manage Inflammatory Conditions

06/13/2025

 

What is Prednisone 20mg Tablets?

Prednisone is an FDA-approved drug that helps address a wide range of conditions: allergic, rheumatic, respiratory, dermatologic, ophthalmic, and gastrointestinal disorders. Prednisone is a synthetic glucocorticoid that belongs to the class of drugs called corticosteroids and is also referred to as a steroid. Prednisone is inactive and has to be converted into an active form (Prednisolone) by the liver. Prednisone has immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in addressing various allergies and health conditions. The medication acts by regulating the activity of the immune system, thereby bringing relief from pain, swelling, redness, and itching. Besides these, as an off-label, the medication is used to treat Covid 19.

The medication is available as normal oral tablets, delayed-release tablets, and solutions with strengths ranging from 1mg to 50mg. Prednisone is sold under different brand names: Deltasone, Predone, Rayos Sterapred, etc. In addition to the brand name, the medication is also available as generic Prednisone 20mg tablets.

Uses and Mechanisms of Prednisone In Different Conditions

Prednisone is useful in treating a wide range of inflammatory conditions, some of which are mentioned below:

Asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory ailment of the airways that makes breathing difficult and causes wheezing and coughing. Prednisone helps in tackling the condition by minimizing swelling and inflammation of the respiratory tract, allowing smooth passage of air to the lungs. The medication functions by altering the mechanism of the body’s immune system, limiting the production of mucus, and relaxing the airways.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition characterized by pain and swelling in the joints. The tissues of the joints are continuously attacked by the body’s immune system. Prednisone helps relieve the symptoms of RA by suppressing the immune system, slowing the progression of the disease, and minimizing the swelling in the joints.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Prednisone belongs to the corticosteroids class that helps in reducing inflammation of the digestive tract by suppressing the overactive immune system.

Besides the above-mentioned conditions, Prednisone is also effective in treating severe allergies and disorders of the skin, eyes, kidneys, lungs, and digestive tract.

Warnings and Precautions to Be Exercised While On Prednisone

• People who are allergic to the active or inactive ingredients of Prednisone should refrain from taking this medicine.

• People with fungal infections should keep away from the use of Prednisone.

• Do not take Prednisone unless you have been prescribed by the doctor.

• Strict to the recommended dosage and the treatment duration. Do not alter any of it without consulting your doctor.

• Do not share the medication with anybody without checking with your doctor, even if they have the same symptoms.

• You must inform your doctor of all the medications you might be administering, including any health supplements.

• You must let your healthcare provider know of any health condition you might have, particularly diabetes, glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart, kidney, and liver disease.

• Let your healthcare provider know if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or planning to get pregnant.

Side Effects of Prednisone

The side effects of Prednisone are classified into common and severe. The common side effects of Prednisone do not require medical attention and will fade away on their own in a few weeks. However, if they worsen or persist longer, you must see a healthcare professional:

• Acne, headache, fatigue

• Nausea, Insomnia,

• Increased appetite and weight gain

The serious side effects of Prednisone require immediate medical care. If you stumble upon any of the below-listed symptoms, discontinue its further usage and get in touch with your doctor.

• Cushing Syndrome: A condition caused by the extended use of glucocorticoid, which is characterized by increased fat around the midsection, upper back, neck, or face.

• Hyperglycemia: Increased thirst and urine, fatigue, and blurry vision.

• Increased blood pressure

• Severe allergic reactions such as vomiting, nausea, fever, and swelling of the face, lips, mouth, neck, and throat.

• Swelling of the ankle, hands or feet

• Anxiety, confusion, hallucination, nervousness

• Dark-colored stool or stool accompanied by blood

Takeaways

Prednisone is a versatile drug that is used for treating a variety of health conditions. It suppresses the immune system and helps in minimizing inflammation. It helps tackle a wide array of conditions such as Asthma, IBD, RA, and various other conditions. Despite its several benefits, the prolonged use of Prednisone may cause potential side effects as well. Therefore, you must check with your healthcare provider and stick to the recommended dosage and treatment duration. Taking the medication consistently, as recommended by your doctor, will help alleviate the inflammatory condition and also improve mobility and quality of life.

FAQs:

What is Prednisone 20mg used for?

Prednisone 20mg is used to treat various inflammatory conditions such as asthma, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), allergies, adrenal issues, arthritis, eye or vision problems, kidney issues, etc.

How should I take Prednisone 20mg tablets safely?

The medication should be taken strictly as recommended by the medic. The medication can be taken either with or without food. In case the doctor asks to take the tablet once a day, try taking it in the morning. You must swallow the tablet without cutting, breaking, or chewing the tablet.

What are the common side effects of Prednisone 20mg?

The common side effects of Prednisone 20mg are nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, acne, and increased appetite. However, these side effects are mild in nature and do not need medical care. They will gradually wean off on their own as the body gets accustomed to the medication.

Can I stop taking Prednisone 20mg suddenly?

No, you must not stop taking Prednisone 20mg suddenly, even if you start feeling better. Stopping administering the medication abruptly may lead to adverse effects. It is advisable that you refer to your doctor before making any changes to the dosage and the treatment span.

Are there any precautions or interactions to be aware of with Prednisone 20mg?

Prednisone 20mg causes an altercation with various drugs such as warfarin and NSAIDs. It may also interact with vaccines. You must disclose the list of medicines you might be taking, including prescription, non-prescription, herbal drugs, and health supplements. Besides the list of medicines, it is also crucial that you share your previous and current health conditions.