Prednisone and Fibromyalgia Treatment

Prednisone and fibromyalgia have been closely studied. There is an association between symptomatic relief of fibromyalgia and prednisone administration. It is estimated that over a million women in the United States suffers from fibromyalgia and prednisone is now commonly used for treatment. Let us discuss the effects of prednisone and fibromyalgia treatment along with other autoimmune diseases like lupus.

The Function of Prednisone

Prednisone is a synthetic hormone designed to mimic the function of the naturally produced hormone cortisone. Prednisone is also commonly known as cortisteroid. Prednisone is manufactured under four brand names. They are Orasone, Deltasone, Meticorten and Sterapred.

In many ways, prednisone acts as an immunosuppressant. For some autoimmune diseases like lupus and fibromyalgia where the immune system is overactive with detrimental effects, prednisone is used to effectively suppress the natural immune function. The overactive immune system produces antibodies that cause problem within the body. Prednisone suppresses the natural function of immune system and hence prevents the production of these problem-causing antibodies. This is why one of the side effects of prednisone is a weaker immune system and the reduced ability to fight off against diseases.

Side Effects of Prednisone

Although doctors have long accepted the use of prednisone and fibromyalgia treatment, there are some risk factors to consider. The short term effects of prednisone include depression, mood swing, euphoria, indigestion, insomnia, weight gain, increased vulnerability towards infection, fluid retention, hyperglycemia, skin bruising and hot flashes.

The prolonged usage of prednisone for treating fibromyalgia and other conditions may result in serious side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts and glaucoma. Moreover, the administration of prednisone is complicated as the early termination may also lead to serious complications like vomiting, nausea, fever and pain. The abrupt termination of prednisone may also cause tachycardia, which is felt as excessively fast heart rate.

A Word of Caution for Fibromyalgia Treatment

If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, you should discuss with your doctor and thoroughly understand the possible side effects before taking prednisone medication. Take the initiative to educate yourself about all the adverse effects of this medication. If you are pregnant, it is highly recommended that you avoid the potential risks of this medicine and ask for a substitute instead.

You must also take care to consult your doctor if you are diagnosed with medical conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, liver disease and eye infection. Especially if your condition is caused by herpes or any form of infections. You must also not stop abruptly after starting prednisone treatment without consulting your doctor.

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