How and when should prednisone be used?
Prednisone is available in many generic brands and in several dosages. Generally, you will be prescribed the 5-mg tablets that can be easily broken in half if necessary. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose and how often to take the medication. Follow these instructions carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. Once prescribed prednisone, your doctor will gradually decrease the dosage over a period of time (generally 6 months) until the permanent dosage is achieved. This type of program is called a taper schedule. Taper schedules are individualized to meet each person’s special needs. Never change the dose of your prednisone without the advice of your doctor. It is important that you take this medication regularly as prescribed; do not stop taking it. You will need to take immunosuppressant drugs every day for the rest of your life to prevent rejection. Your health care provider may reduce or even stop prednis
