Steroid (Prednisone) Regimen

Dr. Javer has prescribed a corticosteroid (Prednisone) to help your sinus problem. It may not be wise for you to take this medication if you have tuberculosis, diabetes, severe high blood pressure, psychiatric illness, or a duodenal ulcer.

Steroids are often used together with surgery for the treatment of allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) or intractable polypoid disease.

Because steroids can effect many body systems, there are occasional side effects you should be aware of and precautions you should take:

1. Adhere exactly to the dosage that has been prescribed. Do not discontinue the medication without his/her advice.
2. Because stomach ulcers are an occasional complication of steroid therapy, you should take 1 ounce of an antacid preparation like Maalox, Milanta, etc. for any symptoms of stomach upset or heartburn. If the symptoms continue, then contact the office for instructions on how to stop the medication. Also avoid aspirin, alcohol, nicotine, and substances which aggravate stomach symptoms or ulcers.
3. Steroids may influence you mood resulting in nervousness, insomnia, or just the opposite - a sense of well-being and euphoria.
4. Steroids can influence your response to infection/ injury. Should you develop an acute infection or a severe injury, inform your physician that you are taking oral corticosteroids.
5. When taken for a short period as prescribed, side effects are uncommon. Prolonged treatment at high dosages may result in some puffiness of the face, fullness in the back, neck and shoulders, weight gain, increased bone fragility, acne and increase facial hair.