10 Reasons You Should NOT Take Prednisone Long Term

Prednisone, a synthetic corticosteroid, is often prescribed to manage a variety of medical conditions, particularly autoimmune disorders. While it can be highly effective in controlling inflammation and suppressing the immune system, long-term use of prednisone comes with a host of potential side effects that patients and healthcare providers must carefully consider. This article delves into the various risks associated with prolonged prednisone therapy and highlights the importance of informed decision-making.

Watch Now!

1. Moon Face and Psychological Impact

One of the most noticeable side effects of long-term prednisone use is “moon face,” a condition characterized by a round and puffy facial appearance due to fat redistribution. This change can extend to other areas of the body, such as the cheeks, chin, shoulders, and abdomen. The psychological impact of moon face can be significant, leading to feelings of discouragement and dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Many individuals may become reluctant to take photographs or document their experiences while on the medication.

2. High Blood Glucose and Diabetes Risk

Prednisone significantly alters the body’s metabolism, often resulting in elevated blood glucose levels. This can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of developing diabetes. The combination of high blood sugar and impaired insulin function presents a serious health risk, making it a critical concern for those considering long-term prednisone therapy.

3 .Increased Hunger and Weight Gain

Prednisone affects hunger and fullness signals, leading to an increased appetite. The hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger, becomes more active, while signals indicating fullness are diminished. Approximately 70% of individuals on prednisone experience significant weight gain, which can be challenging to manage and may not resolve quickly after discontinuing the medication.

4. Immune System Suppression

While prednisone is effective in managing autoimmune conditions by suppressing the immune system, this suppression increases susceptibility to infections. Long-term prednisone use raises the risk of serious infections, including pneumonia, yeast infections, sepsis, cellulitis, and herpes zoster. The potential for severe health complications from infections is a critical reason to avoid long-term prednisone use unless absolutely necessary.

5. Adrenal Insufficiency

Prolonged use of prednisone can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to adrenal insufficiency. This condition may result in atrophied adrenal glands that are unable to produce cortisol independently, affecting the body’s ability to respond to stress and maintain homeostasis.

6. Cardiovascular Risks

Long-term prednisone use can impose additional stress on the heart, contributing to high blood pressure and increasing the risk of arrhythmias and serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks. Although these severe outcomes are relatively rare, the potential for heart-related complications is a significant concern.

7. Cataracts

One of the notable side effects of long-term prednisone use is the development of cataracts, which is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Over time, prolonged exposure to prednisone can lead to blurred vision and decreased visual acuity, making everyday tasks like reading or driving more challenging. Early detection through regular eye exams is essential to managing this side effect, as cataracts can worsen and potentially require surgery if left untreated.

8. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is another significant ocular side effect associated with long-term prednisone use. Prednisone can increase intraocular pressure, which may damage the optic nerve, potentially leading to permanent vision loss if not properly managed. The risk of developing glaucoma rises with prolonged steroid therapy, making regular eye exams vital for individuals on long-term prednisone to detect and treat this condition early.

9. Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis, or avascular necrosis, is a serious side effect of long-term prednisone use, where the blood supply to bones becomes disrupted, causing bone tissue death. This condition most commonly affects the femoral head in the thigh bone, leading to pain, joint dysfunction, and potentially requiring surgical intervention like joint replacement if left untreated. Long-term prednisone users are at higher risk, so early diagnosis is crucial to preventing severe complications.

10. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is another dangerous side effect of long-term prednisone use, leading to weakened bones that are more susceptible to fractures. Prolonged use of prednisone interferes with calcium absorption and bone formation, resulting in a decrease in bone density. This condition can cause brittle bones, and individuals on long-term prednisone therapy should take preventive steps, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation, and undergo regular bone density screenings to monitor bone health.