What Happens When You Get the Flu While Taking Prednisone?

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to spending time with family and friends. However, for some, this time of year also brings the unwelcome visitor known as the flu. This was my reality for the second consecutive year, and this time, I was on prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, which added a layer of complexity to my recovery process. Here, I share my experience and offer insights for those who might find themselves in a similar situation.

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The Treatment Journey

Upon diagnosis, I was prescribed Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), to be taken twice daily for five days. While this medication is generally well-tolerated, I experienced gastrointestinal side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea. Interestingly, many of my family members who also took Tamiflu reported similar issues, suggesting a possible correlation.

For those on prednisone, like myself, it’s important to note that Tamiflu can be taken safely alongside this medication. This is particularly beneficial for high-risk groups, including individuals over 65, those with chronic lung diseases, and people with weakened immune systems due to medications like prednisone.

Managing Prednisone and the Flu

If you’re already on prednisone, it’s crucial to continue your medication and consult your doctor. You may need an increased dosage due to the stress the flu places on your body—a practice known as stress dosing. However, starting prednisone solely to treat flu symptoms is not recommended, as studies suggest it can increase the risk of death.

Symptomatic Relief and Precautions

For symptomatic relief, I found several treatments helpful. Benadryl can aid sleep and reduce mucus for those under 65, but it’s not advised for older adults due to potential side effects. Acetaminophen is recommended for pain relief for those on prednisone, while Ibuprofen is suitable for those not on the medication, provided there are no contraindications.

For nasal congestion, pseudoephedrine is effective, but ensure you obtain the correct formulation, as many over-the-counter options have been reformulated with less effective ingredients. A Neti pot or saline nasal spray can also provide relief, and anti-nausea medications may be necessary for gastrointestinal symptoms, though these typically require a prescription.

The Importance of Vaccination

Despite my disappointment in the flu vaccine’s effectiveness this year, I still advocate for vaccination, especially for those on prednisone. The vaccine remains a critical preventive measure to reduce the risk of severe illness or death from the flu. Watch the video below to learn more about the importance of flu vaccines while on prednisone.