What are the side effects of predisone?

Prednisone is a medication intended to replace or boost the body's own levels of corticosteroids. This class of hormones is extremely important and acts on a wide range of body functions. Therefore, the side effects of prednisone are equally wide-ranging. They include:

• immune system suppression and vulnerability to variety of infections
• altered glucose metabolism with hyperglycemia and diabetes
• altered water and electrolyte retention with swelling or edema

Long-term use can cause serious reduction in natural corticosteroid levels. Other long-term effects are:

• cataracts
• impaired tissue growth including delayed healing and weakened joints
• abnormal body fat metabolism

These are just a few of the common side effects; a comprehensive list should be consulted for more information.