Prednisone and Alcohol

The medical relationship between Prednisone and Alcohol has been somewhat controversial in the recent past. While many physicians will warn against the consumption of alcoholic beverages while under any type of medication, others consider this behavior to be less risky while ingesting Prednisone. Therefore, there is currently no "official" recommendation on the intake of these two substances simultaneously. However, it is important to share all of your medical history with your medical care provider before combining these two drugs so that he or she can better assist you in determining and managing the potential harmful side effects.

Prednisone is a type of steroid that is most often used as an anti-inflammatory in the treatment of certain skin conditions, allergic reactions, lupus, arthritis, psoriasis and some forms of breathing impairments such as asthma. It is sometimes prescribed for more severe ailments such as Crohn's Disease, microscopic and ulcerative colitis, and some forms of Hepatitis. The most common side effects of the ingestion of prednisone, even without alcohol consumption, include possible rapid weight gain, facial swelling, anxiety, acne, dry skin or other skin discolorations. Some patients have also admitted to fatigue, blurred vision, dizziness, unusual thoughts or depression, nausea, stomach pain, nightmares and other sleep disorders.

Prednisone and Alcohol Interaction

Although these side effects are varied and wide ranging, not every patient exhibits any or all of these symptoms. But it is widely believed that the consumption of Alcohol and Prednisone concurrently will only exacerbate the already existing conditions to a higher level of discomfort or may induce side effects that were non-existent previously. It is considered highly important for the patient to self-monitor any possible negative physical or mental distress while on this treatment program, always reporting the symptoms to the prescribing general practitioner.

Prednisone and Alcohol, even when ingested separately, can have the potential to cause irritation to the gastrointestinal system, leading to an increased risk for stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. The dosage of Prednisone must be strictly adhered to, and the patient should be taken off of the drug slowly so as not to induce a shock to the system. Both Prednisone and Alcohol can also lower the immune system. Combining the two substances will only worsen the possibility. For these reasons, it is very important for the patient to communicate clearly and completely with his or her physician through the duration of the Prednisone Treatment Program regarding all possible physical and emotional reactions and side effects while on the prescribed medication.