Prednisone is a synthetic steroid medication. People may take prednisone to manage various medical conditions, including allergies, asthma, or arthritis. It is a commonly prescribed drug with a range of potential side effects.
Combining certain medications and alcohol can have dangerous side effects. But is it safe to mix prednisone and alcohol?
This article will explore the potential side effects of prednisone and alcohol. You will learn:
- What prednisone is and how it works
- If it is safe to drink while taking prednisone
- The potential risks of mixing prednisone and alcohol
- The signs of alcohol abuse
- Where to find substance abuse treatment
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Prednisone?
Prednisone is a commonly used steroid medication. It is a synthetic corticosteroid drug prescribed to treat a wide range of health conditions, including:
- Respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma
- Allergic reactions and allergies
- Autoimmune disorders, including lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), and arthritis
- Dermatitis, psoriasis, and other skin conditions
- Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and other inflammatory GI disorders
- Lymphoma, leukemia, and other types of cancer
- Adrenal insufficiency disorders
- Vision problems caused by eye inflammation
Prednisone belongs to a class of drugs known as anti-inflammatories. It works by suppressing the immune system. Taking prednisone can reduce inflammation throughout the body, which reduces symptoms of a broad range of medical conditions.
A doctor must prescribe prednisone. People taking prednisone must take it exactly as prescribed. Like other medications, prednisone may cause side effects.
Potential side effects of prednisone include:
- Weight gain
- Changes in mood
- A weakened immune system, which increases the risk of infections
Quitting prednisone suddenly can cause unwanted or dangerous complications. It is crucial to work with a healthcare provider to taper off this medication slowly.
Can You Drink While Taking Prednisone?
Many health professionals warn patients to avoid mixing prednisone and alcohol. Many people drink alcohol regularly, but doctors may ask them to stop drinking while taking prednisone.
Here is an overview of the potential risks of mixing prednisone and alcohol.
Blood sugar problems
Blood sugar fluctuations are one potential side effect of alcohol. Prednisone can elevate blood sugar levels. Mixing alcohol and prednisone can increase the risk of developing dangerous blood sugar problems. These risks are higher in those with diabetes and other blood sugar issues.
Liver damage
The liver processes alcohol and prednisone. Taking prednisone and alcohol at the same time can strain the alcohol, increasing the risk of damage.
Mental health symptoms
Prednisone affects the adrenal glands and may cause new or worsening mental health symptoms. People may experience anxiety or depression while taking this drug. Alcohol can worsen these and other mental health symptoms.
Immune system deficiency
Prednisone works by suppressing the immune system. Alcohol can also suppress immunity. Combining alcohol and prednisone can significantly weaken the immune system, putting people at risk of infection.
Stomach problems
Alcohol and prednisone can irritate the lining of the stomach and gastrointestinal system. People who combine alcohol and prednisone may be at greater risk of peptic ulcers, gastritis, and bleeding in the GI system.
Worsened side effects
People taking prednisone may experience unwanted side effects, including drowsiness and poor coordination. Drinking any amount of alcohol while taking prednisone may worsen these or other side effects.
It is critical to follow your doctor’s orders when taking prescription medications like prednisone. If you struggle to control your drinking, you may need treatment for alcohol abuse. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about alcohol abuse or to schedule an intake into one of our treatment programs.
Understanding Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol is legal and widely available throughout the United States. Surveys suggest that the majority of adults in the US drink alcohol at least occasionally.
It can be challenging to determine when drinking has become problematic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people to drink moderately. But what does this mean?
The CDC defines moderate drinking as:
- For men, two or fewer alcoholic drinks per day
- For women, one or fewer alcoholic beverages per day
The CDC defines heavy drinking as:
- For men, fifteen or more alcoholic drinks per week
- For women, eight or more alcoholic drinks per week
Medical experts advise that heavy drinking may increase the risk of:
- Heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues
- Certain cancers, including breast, colon, stomach, and throat cancer
- Liver damage
- Brain damage that causes cognitive issues
Alcohol abuse may cause long-term or deadly complications. It is crucial to recognize the risk of alcohol abuse and seek treatment right away.
Some signs of alcohol abuse and addiction include:
- Doing risky things while drinking, like driving or having unsafe sex
- Having cravings for alcohol
- Needing to drink more to get “buzzed”
- Having social, financial, or legal problems related to alcohol use
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking
- Continuing to drink, even when it causes significant problems
Find Treatment Today
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol addiction, you are not alone. Comprehensive treatment, including behavioral therapies, medications, education, and support, can help you recover. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Prednisone
- Science Direct: Prednisone
- NIH: The effect of alcohol intake and the use of oral corticosteroids on the risk of idiopathic osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a case-control study in Japan
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Moderate Alcohol Use
