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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2005 >> Prednisone and the flu??
        
(Message started by: tpitts77 on May 4^th, 2005, 11:21am)

Title: Prednisone and the flu??
Post by tpitts77 on May 4^th, 2005, 11:21am

I started a taper of prednisone 4 days ago. (FYI- Chronic for 8 years) Last night I started to feel like I was getting the flu. Today I really feel shitty. My whole body aches and am getting a cough.

Has anyone ever gotten the flu or a cold or anything while on Prednisone?

The only reason I'm asking is that the Prednisone has allways made me feel great. I am also under the impression that Prednisone boosts your white blood count, therefore boosting your immune system?? [smiley=huh.gif]

Title: Re: Prednisone and the flu??
Post by floridian on May 4^th, 2005, 11:57am

Prednisone and related corticosteroids are definitely immune supressants.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=prednisone+immune+suppressant&spell=1

Title: Re: Prednisone and the flu??
Post by E-Double on May 4^th, 2005, 12:03pm

I does act as an immunosuppressant....

How does prednisone work?

• In part, prednisone acts as an immunosuppressant. The immune system protects against foreign bacteria and viruses. In some illnesses, the immune system produces antibodies, which become overactive and cause undesirable effects. These illnesses are referred to as "autoimmune diseases". Prednisone suppresses the production of antibodies. This suppression can make it slightly harder for you to fight off infection but also stabilizes the immune system if it is overactive.

• Prednisone also works against inflammation to reduce the heat, redness, swelling and pain.

• When beginning prednisone, there is a small chance that it may cause serious increased weakness for a short period of time. Therefore, it may be necessary for you to be hospitalized for the first few days for observation.

http://search.yahoo.com/search?p=prednisone+immunosuppressant&sm=Yahoo%21+Search&fr=FP-tab-web-t&toggle=1&ei=UTF-8

Title: Re: Prednisone and the flu??
Post by tpitts77 on May 4^th, 2005, 1:30pm

Thanks for the info!!