25+ Ways to Counteract Prednisone Side Effects

Prednisone can cause many side effects—but there are ways to counteract prednisone side effects and feel more in control. It is a powerful corticosteroid that can control inflammation and save lives. But it also comes with a long list of potential side effects. Whether you’re on prednisone short-term or long-term, it’s essential to know how to protect your body.

This guide outlines 25 practical strategies to counteract the most common side effects—so you can feel stronger, healthier, and more in control during your treatment.

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Let’s explore the top ways to counteract prednisone side effects by category: weight, blood pressure, bone health, and more.

Fat Redistribution & Weight Gain

Prednisone can cause dramatic changes in your body shape. It redistributes fat from your limbs to your face, neck, and abdomen—often leading to “moon face,” belly fat, and a hump between the shoulders. These changes aren’t just cosmetic; they’re tied to increased metabolic risks. Diet and early intervention are essential to limit this effect.

How to counteract it:

1. Follow a low-calorie diet to prevent excessive fat gain.
2. Screen for metabolic disorders like high blood sugar or cholesterol, which can worsen weight-related changes.

High Blood Pressure & Fluid Retention

Steroids like prednisone can cause your body to retain salt and water, increasing blood pressure and causing swelling in your ankles and legs. High blood pressure is often silent, but it can lead to serious heart issues if left unchecked. Monitoring and lifestyle changes can help prevent complications.

How to counteract it:

3. Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home or with your doctor.
4. If needed, discuss medications to control blood pressure with your healthcare provider.

Bone Loss & Osteoporosis

One of prednisone’s most dangerous long-term effects is how quickly it can weaken your bones. Even a few months of use can lead to bone thinning (osteopenia) or even full-blown osteoporosis, putting you at higher risk of fractures. Preventive measures like supplements and medications can make a big difference.

5. Get a bone density scan before starting long-term prednisone.
6. Take calcium and vitamin D supplements daily.
7. Use bisphosphonates if prescribed by your doctor to strengthen bones.
8. Avoid other risk factors like smoking and drinking alcohol.

Stay Active to Prevent Myopathy

Steroid-induced myopathy is muscle weakness caused by prednisone, especially in the thighs and shoulders. It can make walking, climbing stairs, or even rising from a chair difficult over time. Staying physically active—especially with strength training—can help preserve and rebuild muscle strength.

9. Engage in regular physical activity, particularly strength training.

Stomach Issues & Ulcer Risk

Prednisone increases your risk of stomach irritation and ulcers, especially if taken with NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin. These gastrointestinal problems can lead to pain, bleeding, or serious complications. Protecting your stomach with food or medications can significantly reduce this risk.

10. Avoid taking prednisone with NSAIDs.
11. Take prednisone with food to protect your stomach.
12. Or take it with a proton pump inhibitor if recommended.

Adrenal Suppression & Withdrawal

Your body produces its own steroids, but prednisone can shut that natural production down. If you stop prednisone suddenly, your body might not be able to respond to stress, causing fatigue, dizziness, and even adrenal crisis. Always taper slowly and be alert for withdrawal symptoms.

13. Always taper your dose slowly under your doctor’s guidance.
14. Watch for symptoms of withdrawal and report them to your healthcare provider.

Immune Suppression & Infection Risk

Prednisone suppresses the immune system, making it harder to fight off bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Even a simple cold could become more severe. It’s important to take preventive measures to reduce your risk of infection, especially before travel or during flu season.

15. Avoid contact with sick individuals.
16. Stay up to date with vaccinations before starting prednisone.
17. If you’re traveling to areas with parasites, ask about preventive medications like ivermectin.

Mood Swings & Mental Health

Prednisone can have a powerful effect on your mood and brain chemistry. Some people feel anxious, irritable, or even euphoric. Others struggle with insomnia or depression. Tracking your mental health and seeking support early can help you manage emotional swings and avoid burnout.

18. Monitor your mood and sleep patterns.
19. Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness or yoga.
20. If symptoms worsen, consult your doctor for additional support.

Eye Health

Steroids like prednisone can raise pressure inside the eyes (glaucoma) and cloud the lens (cataracts), potentially leading to vision loss. Regular eye exams can catch these problems early when they’re easier to treat. Don’t ignore changes in your eyesight while on prednisone.

21. Schedule regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist.

22. Report changes in vision, like blurriness, to your doctor immediately.

Blood Sugar & Diabetes

Prednisone increases blood sugar by interfering with insulin, which can cause temporary spikes or lead to new-onset diabetes. If you already have diabetes or prediabetes, careful monitoring and diet adjustments are essential. Medications may need to be changed to match your new needs.

23. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels.
24. Follow a balanced diet and avoid excessive sugar intake.
25. If you have diabetes, work with your doctor to adjust medications as needed.

Final Thoughts

While prednisone can treat serious and life-threatening conditions, its side effects can’t be ignored. These 25 strategies are designed to help you take control of your health and protect your body while using prednisone safely.

When you use strategies to counteract prednisone side effects, you’re actively protecting your body during steroid treatment.

To make things easier, I’ve created a Prednisone Checklist, summarizing all of these tips. It’s free, printable, and a great tool to take with you to your next doctor’s appointment.