Prednisone is a generic version of one type of steroidal medication. It may be distributed under the brand name Deltasone. This medication is available in tablet and liquid form. Prednisone is prescribed for a number in reasons. In children, it is most commonly given to treat asthma, juvenile arthritis, autoimmune conditions and acute allergic reactions. It may part of the regimen used to treat pediatric leukemia and organ transplant rejection. For all the good it does, prednisone also has side effects which can be troublesome in children.
Insomnia
Difficulty sleeping is a side effect associated high doses of prednisone. Children may experience insomnia at low doses as well as individual tolerance varies. This sleep disturbance may manifest as difficulty falling asleep or inability to stay asleep. For those taking this drug once a day, the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh (CHP) recommends administering prednisone to children prior to 9 a.m. in order to lessen this effect. A doctor or pharmacy can help devise a dosing schedule for children who take multiple doses throughout the day.
Blood Pressure
Prednisone may cause increased blood pressure in children due to fluid retention. The fluid retention is caused by retention of sodium. Swelling in the hands and feet is a sign of this and a physician should be notified if a child gains two or more pounds over a 24 hour period while on prednisone. Blood pressure should be monitor routinely in children who are on long-term steroidal therapy. Reducing sodium in the diet will reduce the amount of fluid retention and therefore lower the risk of elevation of blood pressure.
Skeletal Effects
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that long-term prednisone use may lead to growth suppression in children. There is also the risk of later development of osteoporosis. Children on long-term prednisone treatment are generally monitored closely to minimize adverse skeletal effects. Parents can help by providing adequate sources of calcium and vitamin D. These supplements can help slow the progression of bone loss. Walking and age-appropriate weight-bearing exercises also help to maintain bone health.
Blood Sugar
Long-term prednisone use in children can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, or hyperglycemia. This does not necessarily mean that these children have diabetes. Blood sugar levels will be monitored routinely by the treating physician who will determine if the levels are elevated enough to require treatment. Parents should immediately report any occurrences of increased thirst and urination or change in awareness as these symptoms may indicate elevated blood sugar levels. Limiting the intake of concentrated sweets may help avoid, or lessen the severity, of prednisone side effects.
Dependency
As a child continues to take prednisone, the body stops making a hormone similar to the synthetic steroid. The body uses the synthetic steroid, prednisone, to carry out essential functions. If prednisone is stopped suddenly, the body does not have enough of the hormone to effectively carry out daily functions. A child who stops prednisone suddenly may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as dizziness, fatigue and stomach issues. Sudden withdrawal can be fatal. If prednisone is no longer required to treat a condition, it must be stopped gradually by reducing the dose over many days and should be managed by the prescribing physician.
Tags: fluid retention, sugar levels, blood sugar, elevated blood, elevated blood sugar, long-term prednisone, prednisone children