Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, powerfully suppresses the immune system. It achieves this primarily by binding to intracellular receptors, influencing gene expression.
- Reduced inflammation: Prednisone inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators like cytokines (e. g., TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6) and prostaglandins. This lessens swelling, redness, and pain associated with immune responses. Lymphocyte suppression: It directly affects lymphocytes, key players in adaptive immunity. Prednisone decreases lymphocyte proliferation and their migration to sites of inflammation, dampening both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Inhibition of other immune cells: Beyond lymphocytes, prednisone impacts other immune cells, including macrophages and mast cells, reducing their activity and further contributing to immunosuppression.
This multifaceted action leads to a decreased immune response. However, this powerful effect also carries risks. Reduced immune function increases susceptibility to infections.
Increased infection risk: Prednisone impairs the body’s ability to fight off infections. Patients should be vigilant about hygiene and seek medical attention promptly for any signs of infection. Delayed wound healing: Prednisone’s anti-inflammatory effects can also slow wound healing. Potential for opportunistic infections: The severely suppressed immune system increases the risk of developing opportunistic infections caused by normally harmless microbes.
Therefore, prednisone’s use requires careful monitoring and management by a healthcare professional to balance its therapeutic benefits with the risks of immunosuppression. Dosage and duration of treatment should be individualized based on the patient’s condition and response.
