Unexpected Twists Your Body Takes on the Prednisone Adventure

10. Expert Advice on Taking Prednisone: Dos and Don’ts

Taking prednisone the right way can minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness. To reduce stomach irritation, it’s best to take prednisone with food or milk. Because prednisone raises blood sugar, avoiding processed foods, sugars, and refined carbs can help maintain better energy and weight control. Since alcohol increases gastrointestinal risks, patients should limit alcohol intake while on prednisone. If taking a once-daily dose, taking it in the morning helps mimic the body’s natural cortisol cycle, reducing insomnia. Finally, never stop prednisone suddenly—gradual tapering is essential to preventwithdrawal symptoms and adrenal issues.

11. The Emotional Rollercoaster: How Prednisone Alters Mood and Behavior

Prednisone isn’t just hard on the body—it’s hard on the mind too. Many patients report feeling euphoric, anxious, irritable, or even emotionally numb while taking it. Some describe sudden mood swings, paranoia, or unexplained crying spells. In extreme cases, prednisone can trigger steroid-induced psychosis, leading to hallucinations, mania, or deep depression. This is why it’s often called the "raging steroid"—it doesn’t just reduce inflammation; it hijacks your emotions in ways that even patients don’t always expect.