When used appropriately, prednisone can be a safe and extremely beneficial medication. But when the time comes for you to stop taking it, abruptly ceasing your use can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Knowing how to taper off prednisone can help you end your use of this medication with minimal distress.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Prescription medication, Live Oaks Wellness is here to help. Call us today or verify your insurance to learn more about our personalized treatment options and start your journey toward recovery.
What Is Prednisone?
Before we address how to taper off prednisone, it can be valuable to spend a few moments reviewing what this drug is (and what it’s not).
Prednisone is a corticosteroid, which is a category of synthetic drugs that are also referred to as glucocorticoids or simply as steroids. Other substances in this category include hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, and cortisone.
Though they are often grouped into the general category of steroids, corticosteroids are quite different than anabolic steroids:
- The primary effects of prednisone and other corticosteroids are reducing inflammation and slowing the activity of body’s immune system. In the U.S., these medications are available only on a prescription basis.
- Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of testosterone. Though they have legitimate medical uses, they are also often misused by athletes and others who are attempting to illicitly increase their lean muscle mass.
Both corticosteroids and anabolic steroids are prescription medications. However, only anabolic steroids are controlled substances, with a Schedule III classification that indicates their potential for abuse and dependence.
What Does Prednisone Treat?
Prednisone’s anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties make it an effective medication for people who have a variety of medical concerns, including:
- Asthma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Ulcerative colitis
- Lupus
- Rashes and other skin conditions
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Is Prednisone Safe?
Prednisone can be both safe and effective when used as directed by your prescribing physician. However, as also the case with virtually every other medication, taking prednisone can expose you to certain adverse effects:
Common side effects of prednisone use include:
- Acne
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
Less common but potentially much more serious side effects include:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar)
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat
- Adrenal gland dysfunction
- Anxiety and irritability
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
If you experience any side effects when using prednisone, you should consult with your doctor. They may adjust your dosage level or switch you to a different medication.
How to Taper Off Prednisone
Though prednisone is not considered to have a high risk of abuse and dependence, it’s important to remember than low risk is not the same as no risk.
Even if you have been taking prednisone as directed to treat a legitimate medical concern, you may find it difficult to stop using it. This can be due to psychological dependence and/or the onset of withdrawal symptoms.
Knowing how to taper off prednisone can help you avoid cravings and other withdrawal symptoms.
The first step in this process is to speak with the doctor who prescribed it to you. They can set up an appropriate tapering schedule, so you can gradually reduce your dosage over time. They can also monitor your progress and help you manage any symptoms that you experience.
Prednisone Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal occurs when you abruptly stop taking a drug after your body has adapted to it.
Some drugs, such as opioids, are associated with severe, highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. For some people who have been drinking heavily for an extended period, withdrawal can actually be life-threatening.
Prednisone withdrawal isn’t usually as difficult or dangerous as what you would experience if you were withdrawing from alcohol or an opioid – but that doesn’t mean it’s a simple, stress-free endeavor.
Prednisone withdrawal can cause symptoms such as:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Headache
- Fever
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Muscle and joint pain
- Peeling skin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
If you go through prednisone withdrawal, the type, intensity, and duration of the symptoms you experience can be influenced by factors such as:
- Your age, weight, and metabolism
- What disorder you were treating with prednisone
- How long you had been using prednisone
- How much prednisone you had been using
One of the most influential factors is the manner in which you stopped using the drug.
If you abruptly quit, your symptoms are likely to be more severe. If you talked to your doctor about tapering off prednisone – and then followed the plan they set up for you – you should have a less difficult time.
Benefits of Prednisone Detox
If severe withdrawal symptoms prevent you from ending your use of prednisone or any other substance, you may want to consider enrolling in a detox program.
The benefits of detox include:
- Residing in a closely supervised environment where you won’t have access to addictive substances
- Being cared for by a team of experts who are familiar with all aspects of withdrawal and prepared to respond if anything unexpected occurs
- Receiving medical and/or therapeutic support as necessary to help you manage your symptoms
Once you’ve completed the withdrawal process, your treatment team can help you determine which type of follow-on care is best for you. The post-detox phase of treatment can help you address the behavioral and psychological facets of prednisone dependence.
Prednisone Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal occurs when you abruptly stop taking a drug after your body has adapted to it.
Some drugs, such as opioids, are associated with severe, highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. For some people who have been drinking heavily for an extended period, withdrawal can actually be life-threatening.
Prednisone withdrawal isn’t usually as difficult or dangerous as what you would experience if you were withdrawing from alcohol or an opioid – but that doesn’t mean it’s a simple, stress-free endeavor.
Find a Prednisone Detox Center in the San Franciso Bay Area
Live Oaks Wellness offers detox, residential treatment, and outpatient care for adults in the San Francisco Bay area.
Our team of dedicated professionals can help you end your use of prednisone or other substances with minimal discomfort. We can also work closely with you to help you develop the skills and strategies that will allow you to live a healthier life, free from the constraints of compulsive substance use.
To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, please visit our Admissions page or call us today,
