PRECAUTIONS: Before taking prednisone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: untreated active fungal infections. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, history of blood clots, bone loss (osteoporosis), certain nerve/muscle disease (myasthenia gravis), diabetes, eye diseases (e.g., ocular herpes infection, cataracts, glaucoma), heart problems (congestive heart failure), high blood pressure, kidney disease, mental/mood conditions, other infections (e.g., tuberculosis, threadworm), severe liver disease (cirrhosis), stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcer, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis), underactive thyroid. Make sure your doctors know that you are taking this medication or have used it in the past. This medication may mask signs of infection or put you at greater risk of developing very serious (rarely fatal) infections. Report any injuries or signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat/fever/cough, pain during urination, muscle aches) that occur during treatment. If your body is under severe stress due to major infection, surgery, or injury, your dose may need to be adjusted upward if you are using a very low dose of prednisone for a long time. Your body may not be able to make enough natural steroids. If you have stopped taking this drug within the past 12 months, consult your doctor. You may need to start taking it again if your body is under severe stress. Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur when your body is under severe stress: unusual weakness, sudden weight loss, dizziness. Tell your doctor if you are scheduling surgery. Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles infection while taking this medication. If you are exposed to these infections, seek immediate medical attention. If you have a history of ulcers or take large doses of aspirin or other arthritis medication, limit alcoholic beverages while taking this drug. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding. If you have diabetes, this drug may increase your blood sugar levels. 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 need to be adjusted. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Caution is advised when using this drug in children. It may slow down a child's growth rate if given for prolonged periods. Monitor your child's height and growth rate regularly. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to possible fetal harm. Consult your doctor for more details. This medication passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.