Prednisone is very similar to the hormone cortisone, which the body manufactures. Prednisone is used to treat many illnesses. In part, prednisone acts as an immunosuppressant. The immune system protects against foreign bacteria and viruses. In some illnesses, the immune system produces antibodies, which become overactive and cause undesirable effects.
Prednisone suppresses the production of antibodies.
This suppression can make it slightly harder for you to fight off infection but also stabilizes the immune system if it is overactive. Prednisone also works against inflammation to reduce the heat, redness, swelling and pain. When beginning prednisone, there is a small chance that it may cause serious increased weakness for a short period of time. Therefore, it may be necessary for you to be hospitalized for the first few days for observation. Adverse effects do not occur in all patients and are usually related to the amount and length of time prednisone is used.