While most medications are okay to take with prednisone, not all are safe.

Some of them will increase the amount of prednisone in your body.

That makes it so that you have even more side effects than you otherwise would.

Plus often prednisone is prescribed by one doctor, and another doctor prescribes other medications.

So we need to make sure that all your doctors are aware of all of your treatments.

Find out which medications you need to avoid while taking prednisone.

Plus find out which drugs to be careful about (talk to your doctor first) while on prednisone.

Finally, I have a list of 3+ helpful medications you may need to start taking because of the prednisone side effects.

Watch now!

3+ Drugs to Avoid while on Prednisone

Prednisone is a commonly prescribed corticosteroid used to treat a variety of conditions, including inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and allergies. However, it is essential to be aware of certain drug interactions that can occur when taking prednisone. In this article, we will discuss three drugs to avoid while on prednisone, three drugs to be careful about, and three drugs you may need to consider taking.

Ketoconazole and other Antifungal Medications

Ketoconazole and other antifungal medications can increase the levels of prednisone in the body, leading to a higher risk of side effects.

It is recommended to avoid using these medications while on prednisone to prevent potential complications.

Anti-seizure drugs; Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine

Anti-seizure medications such as Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, and Carbamazepine can reduce the effectiveness of prednisone, potentially leading to inadequate treatment of the underlying condition.

Avoiding these drugs while on prednisone is crucial to ensure the desired therapeutic outcomes.

Verapamil

Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions, can interact with prednisone, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness of either medication.

It is advisable to avoid using verapamil while taking prednisone to prevent any potential adverse reactions.

What Can I Do About these Drugs to Avoid?

Make sure both doctors prescribing these drugs are aware of the other medications you’re taking. Often drug interactions happen when one doctor is prescribing prednisone for one condition, and another doctor, like a neurologist, is prescribing the other drug for seizures. They may not know about the other doctor or prescription and not know that it’s a drug interaction.

Read more about Prednisone Drug Interactions + 5 Ways to Minimize Side Effects

3+ Drugs You Need to Be Careful About

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Corticosteroids like prednisone may enhance the adverse effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage. It is important to use these medications cautiously and under medical supervision while on prednisone.

• Common NSAIDs: Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Meloxicam, Naproxen, Celecoxib
• Less Common NSAIDs: Etodolac, Indomethacin, Ketoprofen, Ketorolac, Mefenamic acid, Nabumetone, Piroxicam, Sulindac, Tolmetin

Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics

Corticosteroids can enhance the hypokalemic effect of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics, leading to electrolyte imbalances and potential heart rhythm abnormalities. Careful monitoring of potassium levels is essential when using these medications together with prednisone.

• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Chlorthalidone

You may need an additional prescription for potassium chloride tablets to keep your potassium steady.

Anticoagulants like Warfarin (Coumadin)

Prednisone may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists like Warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Adjustments in the dosage of warfarin may be necessary when taking it concurrently with prednisone to minimize the risk of bleeding complications.

3+ Drugs You May Need While on Prednisone

Blood pressure medications

Patients on prednisone may require adjustments in their blood pressure medications to manage hypertension effectively. Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels is essential to determine the appropriate dosing of these medications.

Blood sugar medications

Prednisone can increase blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes. Patients may need to consider adjusting their blood sugar medications or insulin dosage to maintain optimal blood glucose control while on prednisone.

Anxiety medications

Some individuals may experience increased anxiety or mood changes while on prednisone. Anxiety medications may be necessary to help manage these symptoms and improve the overall well-being of the patient during treatment.

Bonus Drug!

Check out this article to learn about the bonus drug that can help you with Moon Face.

Plus you can download my free list of other things you need to avoid while on prednisone. Just fill out the form below to get it sent to your email!

Reference

Ghlichloo I, Gerriets V. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.