Life for Adults while on Prednisone

Prednisone is a widely used initial therapy for Nephrotic Syndrome.  Prednisone is an immunosuppressant which helps reduce swelling, and, hopefully, helps the kidneys to function properly.

Common side effects include:

• Weight gain
• Fluid retention
• Raised blood pressure
• Sleeplessness
• Increased hunger
• Stretch marks
• Cataracts
• Thinning of bones (osteoporosis)
• Risks of serious infections
• Ulcers
• Adrenal insufficiency

It is important that you do not stop taking prednisone abruptly without talking to your doctor.  It is very common to taper use of the drug before stopping completely.