Deltasone

What Is Deltasone?

Deltasone (prednisone) is an adrenocortical steroid that is used to treat a large number of health problems by its suppressive effect on cells in the human immune system. Deltasone is used to treat endocrine and rheumatologic disorders, dermatologic, lung and collagen-vasculature diseases, allergic, ophthalmic, hematologic and gastrointestinal disorders, neoplastic diseases, and many other health problems. The brand name Deltasone is no longer available in the U.S.; generic forms are available.

What Are Side Effects of Deltasone?

Common side effects of Deltasone include:

• water retention,
• fragile skin,
• acne,
• headaches,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• loss of appetite,
• heartburn,
• trouble sleeping,
• increased sweating, and
• mood changes.

Serious side effects may occur with long-term use of Deltasone, including:

• Cushingoid development,
• diabetes,
• growth suppression in children,
• congestive heart failure, and
• tendon ruptures.

Dosage for Deltasone

Deltasone tablets are available in five strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg and 50 mg; it is also available in a liquid form. Dosage is quite variable and often depends on the health problem being treated and the person's response to the medication. However, daily doses usually range from 5 to 60 mg, one to four times per day. Some diseases require high daily doses, such as multiple sclerosis, which takes 200 mg per day, initially.

What Drugs, Substances, or Supplements Interact with Deltasone?

Deltasone may interact with aldesleukin, mifepristone, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, troleandomycin, ketoconazole, high dose aspirin, and drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising [(including antiplatelet drugs, blood thinners, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)]. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Use of this drug in pediatric populations is done under close physician supervision.

Deltasone During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Deltasone use in pregnancy and in breastfeeding females is not recommended; patients need to consult with their OB-GYN doctors about the use of this drug.

Additional Information

Our Deltasone Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, heartburn, trouble sleeping, increased sweating, or acne may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: muscle pain/cramps, irregular heartbeat, weakness, swelling hands/ankles/feet, unusual weight gain, signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), vision problems (such as blurred vision), vomit that looks like coffee grounds, black/bloody stools, severe stomach/abdominal pain, mental/mood changes (such as depression, mood swings, agitation), slow wound healing, thinning skin, bone pain, menstrual period changes, puffy face, seizures, easy bruising/bleeding.

This medication may infrequently make your blood sugar level rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination. If you already have diabetes, be sure to check your blood sugars regularly. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.

A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Read the entire patient information overview for Deltasone (Prednisone)