I take 5 mg prednisone per day. This week the doctor has prescribed mega doses for a condition. My blood pressure is elevated. 166/90. I am 85 year old female
Does prednisone elevate blood pressure?
Question posted by Grandkids7 on 19 Feb 2014
Last updated on 16 August 2018
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3 Answers
keith2468
13 May 2017
This is an old question, but this affected me directly back when I was new to prednisone and dermatomyositis.
The mega doses of prednisone you get initially with myositis can quickly raise your blood pressure. Within days.
Generally it is a good idea to start checking your blood pressure weekly. Say at a BP machine in a pharmacy. Or you can buy a BP machine for less than $100.
I think a BP of 166/90 would always be treated, or medications adjusted, but it would not be urgent, just get to your doctor or a walk-in clinic within say 5 days.
However, for someone who is 85, probably the best thing is to get to your doctor or a walk-in clinic the next day.
What messed me up -- I assumed my rheumatologist would handle any BP meds necessary to counteract the other meds he prescribed. But nope, that is not how the system usually works.
Family doctors are the ones with a lot of experience treating high blood pressure.
Generally, it is your family doctor/primary care physician who will treat your high blood pressure, not the rheumatologist or neurologist.
I hope that helps someone in the future.
- Keith
endlessPred
24 Feb 2014
Long term prednisone will raise blood pressure. You are at a low level. Long term polymyositis and it's cousins does raise blood pressure over time. If having frequent flare ups, the heart and diaphragm become damaged as they are muscles. Too much weight on the body does the same and speeds the process. Sit down and discuss this carefully with your specialist. I suggest that you learn all that you can. Are you being watched for diabetes which comes from the prednisone and support medications? One step at a time and you will become your own expert. We have to with this rare disease. Write me anytime. Karen
Sharon Lovett
16 Aug 2018
I have been taking Prednisone for approximately 1 week and I have gained 10 lbs. My pressure was elevated and as of today,my Doc is weaning me off of 5mg 2AM AND 5MG NO PM. Will it stop increasing my BP NOW?
kaismama
19 Feb 2014
It can. Are you retaining fluid? You might give your dr a call and let him know tomorrow.
Related topics
polymyositis/dermatomyositis, gouty arthritis, prednisone, dosage, doctor, prescription, blood pressure, female, blood, pressure
Further information
- Prednisone uses and safety info
- Prednisone prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Prednisone (detailed)
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