What are the side effects of long-term prednisone use?
This question relates to a prescription drug. The answers below are not intended to replace discussions with your doctor. Please contact your healthcare provider for any prescription drug questions.
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Stacy Wiegman answered:Side effects of long-term use of the steroid prednisone include an increased risk of eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma. Long-term use can also raise your risk of osteoporosis, a condition in which your bones become brittle and your risk of fractures increases.
If you use prednisone for a long time, you may notice abnormal hair growth, thinning of your skin, acne, a loss of muscle mass and a change in the way your body fat is distributed. If you drink alcohol along with using this medication for a long time, you have an increased risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding in the digestive tract.Side effects of long-term use of the steroid prednisone include an increased risk of eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma. Long-term use can also raise your risk of osteoporosis, a condition in which your bones become brittle and your... More -
Dr. Michael T Murray answered:Common side effects of long-term prednisone use at higher dosage levels include: depression, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes and even psychotic behavior; high blood pressure; diabetes; peptic ulcers; acne; excessive facial hair in women; muscle cramps and weakness; thinning and weakening of the skin; osteoporosis; and susceptibility to the formation of blood clots. Unfortunately, every single one of prednisone's side effects, both short- and long-term, can occur in our bodies due to excessive cortisol secretion.
Common side effects of long-term prednisone use at higher dosage levels include: depression, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes and even psychotic behavior; high blood pressure; diabetes; peptic ulcers; acne; excessive facial hair in women;... More
