Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Prednisone can interact with many medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Blood thinners (e. g., warfarin): Prednisone can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners, increasing the risk of blood clots. Your doctor may need to adjust your blood thinner dosage or monitor you closely.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e. g., ibuprofen, naproxen): Combining prednisone and NSAIDs increases the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding. Use caution and inform your doctor.
Diabetes medications: Prednisone can raise blood sugar levels, potentially interfering with the effectiveness of your diabetes medication. Regular blood sugar monitoring is crucial.
Potassium-wasting diuretics (e. g., furosemide): Prednisone can deplete potassium levels. Combining it with potassium-wasting diuretics increases this risk, potentially leading to irregular heartbeats.
Immunosuppressants: Concurrent use with other immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus, significantly heightens the risk of infection.
Never stop taking prednisone suddenly without consulting your physician. Tapering off the medication gradually is necessary to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
This information is not exhaustive. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of potential interactions and precautions specific to your health situation.
