It is most often prescribed to patients with emphysema when they have experienced a severe cold, flu or other respiratory infection. This medication comes as a tablet in many different doses. Your doctor may start you out with a higher dose and decrease the dose slowly over several days or weeks until you no longer need to take it. This is called a steroid taper. Not all patients experience these side effects.
Some patients experience different side effects than others.
The intensity of side effects can vary from person to person. Short-term side effects include stomach discomfort, irritability and mood swings, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and increased risk of infection. Long-term side effects can include bruising and thinning of the skin, osteoporosis, weight gain, hair growth, ulcers, glaucoma and cataracts. Notify your doctor of any new stomach pain or discomfort. This medication should be used cautiously by patients who have high blood pressure, ulcers, diverticulitis or ulcerative colitis, and those who are pregnant or nursing.