Prednisone side effects and antipsychotics by Pharmacy blog

Question: I am currently being treated for SLE. I am in a flare with lupus myositis. My rheumatologist, who is very conservative re: has increased my dosage from 4mg to 15 mg daily. I am one of those folks who become almost manic on increased dosages. Since I am also required to be on bed rest, she . . .

Answer: Both antipsychotics and some mood stabilizers have been used to prevent prednisone-induced manic symptoms. A history of previous manic symptoms on prednisone suggests one of these treatments be used to prevent any difficulties.

Ask an Expert: Nicholas Votolato RPh BCPP, Pharmacy and Medications

Benefiber
Question: I purchased a 14.95oz container of Benefiber a few weeks ago and I find that it has a terrible taste. I have been using Benefiber for many years and never experienced this awful taste. Has the formula been changed? Can I return it to . . .

Answer:

The formulation for Benefiber has been changed.  The change in taste you have noticed may be the formulation change.

You may contact the customer service department for Benefiber at 1-800-452-0 . . .

Ask an Expert: Carmen Hadley RPh, CSPI, Pharmacy and Medications

Prednisone
Question: I am 35 years old and have been taking Prednisone for 4 years now. My family doctor told me that I am starting menopause that might be induced by the Prednisone. Is this typical for long use of Prednisone to have early menopause? Can you give me some infromation on this?

Answer:

Menopause is caused by a decrease in estrogen.

Prednisone can cause bone loss or osteoporosis.  Prednisone can reduce the amount of calcium available to your body for bones as well as decrease estrogen production.   Premenopausal women on long-term prednisone therapy should have a bone densi . . .

Ask an Expert: Carmen Hadley RPh, CSPI, Pharmacy and Medications