side effects of prednisone withdrawal
Prednisone, a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and alleviate conditions like allergies and autoimmune diseases, comes with critical considerations regarding its discontinuation. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to severe side effects due to adrenal insufficiency, as the body becomes reliant on external steroid support. Common withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, muscle weakness, and depression. More serious complications may involve dizziness upon standing (orthostatic hypotension), nausea, vomiting, and in extreme cases, shock. Gradual tapering under medical supervision is crucial to mitigate these risks and allow the adrenal glands to resume normal function safely.
