Prednisone (Deltasone)

Purpose:
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that helps prevent and treat rejection of transplanted organs. It may be used for long-term (perhaps lifetime) immunosuppression or, in higher doses, for treatment of rejection.

How to take:

• Tablets are available in several different strengths; the transplant team will determine the preferred tablet strength; liquid - 5 mg per mL; IV forms are also available.

• It is best to take Prednisone with food.

• Avoid taking Prednisone within 1 hour of taking antacids or CARAFATEŽ, an antiulcer medication.

• If Prednisone is taken once a day, it should be taken in the morning - consult with the transplant team for specific directions.

• The transplant team will determine the proper dosage according to weight, how well the transplant is functioning, and the length of time since the transplant.

Precautions:

The benefits of taking this medication if a patient is pregnant or breast feeding must be weighed against the potential hazards to her, her fetus, or her infant. She should consult her transplant team immediately if she thinsk she's pregnant.

Principal side effects:

These include, but are not limited to, fluid and sodium (salt) retention, high blood sugar, muscle weakness, bone disease, stomach ulcers, impaired wound healing, acne, mood swings, anxiety, cataracts, glaucoma, weight gain, hormone disorders, and growth suppression in children.