What is a common long-term effect of prednisone use?

Long-term use of prednisone, a corticosteroid, is associated with several physiological changes in the body, and one of the most significant is immunosuppression. Corticosteroids like prednisone work by suppressing the immune response to reduce inflammation and control autoimmune conditions. This immunosuppressive effect can make individuals more susceptible to infections because the body’s natural defenses are diminished. Therefore, while prednisone might be beneficial for controlling inflammation in certain conditions, its long-term use can compromise the immune system, creating a risk of both opportunistic infections and reduced ability to respond to pathogens effectively.

In a broader context, prednisone can lead to other side effects, such as weight gain due to increased appetite and changes in metabolism, but these are not directly tied to the primary mechanism of the drug. Similarly, it does not improve energy levels or bone density; in fact, prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to osteoporosis and weakened bones. Hence, understandable caution must be exercised with long-term prednisone therapy to mitigate risks associated with immunosuppression.