corticosteroids-oral (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, particularly if you have: liver or kidney disease, heart problems, intestinal problems, ulcers, high blood pressure, an underactive thyroid gland, myasthenia gravis, herpes eye infection, a history of tuberculosis (TB), seizures, blood clots, osteoporosis (brittle bones), eye problems, any allergies. Do not have a vaccination, other immunization or any skin test while you are using this drug unless your doctor specifically tells you that you may. If you have a history of ulcers or take large doses of aspirin or other arthritis medication, limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages while taking this medication. It may make your stomach and intestines more susceptible to the irritating effects of alcohol, aspirin, and certain arthritis medications, increasing your risk of ulcers. Report any injuries or signs of infection (fever, sore throat, pain during urination, and muscle aches) that occur during treatment and within 12 months after treatment with this drug. Your dose may need to be adjusted or you may need to start taking the drug again. If you have diabetes, this drug may increase your blood sugar level. Check your blood (or urine) glucose level frequently, as directed by your doctor. Promptly report any abnormal results as directed. Your medicine, exercise plan, or diet may be adjusted. If the phlegm (sputum) you cough up when ill becomes thickened or changes color from clear white to yellow, green, or gray, contact your doctor; these changes may be signs of an infection. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. This medication can cause growth suppression in infants and children if given for prolonged periods. Monitor growth velocity. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before you take this drug, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking especially: aspirin, arthritis medication, anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), diuretics ("water pills"), rifampin, phenobarbital, estrogen (e.g., birth control pills), phenytoin, ketoconazole, drugs for diabetes. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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