Do I need to take Prednisone for my allergic reaction to go away, or will it do that on its own?

I know this question was asked a while ago, but I feel I can offer advice. I've been on prednisone for a few years, at varying doses, because of severe eczema. In my experience, if prednisone has worked at all, its unlikely that benedryl will help on its own. Sometimes it can take a few days to see any improvement. If the prednisone still has not helped, its very possible the rash was caused by something other than an allergy.Prednisone is an anti-inflammatory and at 40mg hives usually clear up by the 3 day mark. (At least, they always have for me) 40 mg is a higher dose, but if your doctor prescribed it this way, I'd imagine the hives were severe. The side effects of prednisone aren't anything to be concerned about so long as you take it as directed. The major side effects don't normally happen short-term. Its only after being on the medicine for several weeks (more likely months) at a constant high dose, that you should begin to worry.

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Its also a bad idea to stop prednisone abruptly without tapering down first. It can cause all sorts of problems, and would likely hurt more than it would help. I hope your issue has resolved by now and that you're doing well!