Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid medication that mimics natural hormones produced by the adrenal glands. It functions as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling, redness, and itching throughout the body. Prednisone also acts as an immunosuppressant, which means it can decrease the activity of the body’s immune system. This dual action makes it a versatile medication for various conditions.
Common Uses of Prednisone in Children
Prednisone is prescribed for numerous conditions in children, often when inflammation or an overactive immune response is involved. It is commonly used to manage asthma exacerbations, where it helps reduce airway inflammation and improve breathing. Children experiencing severe allergic reactions, such as those causing widespread hives or swelling, may also receive prednisone to quickly alleviate symptoms.
Prednisone also plays a role in treating certain autoimmune disorders in children, like juvenile idiopathic arthritis and lupus. Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, benefit from prednisone’s ability to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. Furthermore, it is used in nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder, to help reduce protein leakage from the blood into the urine and induce remission.
Administering Prednisone to Children
Administering prednisone to children requires careful attention to dosage and schedule, determined by a healthcare provider. The dosage is typically calculated based on body weight. It is important to give the exact prescribed dose, using a pediatric measuring device or oral syringe for liquid forms, rather than kitchen spoons.
Prednisone is available in various forms, including liquid and tablets, and should be given with food or after meals to minimize stomach upset. The duration of treatment varies, from short-term courses for acute issues to longer periods for chronic conditions. For longer courses, do not stop the medication abruptly, as this can lead to adrenal insufficiency; instead, the dose must be gradually tapered down under medical supervision.
Potential Side Effects for Children
Children taking prednisone may experience a range of side effects. Short-term effects often include increased appetite and weight gain, mood changes, trouble sleeping, and increased energy levels. Stomach upset may also occur.
With longer-term use, more significant side effects can emerge. These may include growth suppression, affecting a child’s height, and issues with bone density, potentially leading to osteoporosis. Prednisone can also increase susceptibility to infections. Other potential long-term effects include the development of cataracts and adrenal suppression. While these side effects are a concern, the benefits of prednisone often outweigh the risks in treating serious conditions.
Important Considerations When Using Prednisone
Regular medical monitoring is important for prednisone treatment, especially for children on long-term therapy. This monitoring may involve blood tests and growth checks. Parents should inform the healthcare provider about all other medications their child is taking, as prednisone can interact with various drugs, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects.
If a dose of prednisone is missed, give it as soon as remembered. However, if it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule, without doubling. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if a child exhibits signs of a severe allergic reaction (such as a rash or swelling), if symptoms worsen, or if unusual or severe side effects develop (like vision changes, severe stomach pain, or signs of infection). Dosage adjustments or discontinuation of prednisone should only occur under a doctor’s guidance.