Prednisolone could worsen the virus?

Posted , 11 users are following.

Just read the latest advice from the government about not taking Ibuprofen . Quote from BBC news:

'He also advised people taking painkillers to use paracetamol instead of ibuprofen, after French health officials indicated anti-inflammatory drugs could worsen the virus - a suggestion Sir Patrick said "may or may not be right".'

As prednisolone is an anti- inflammatory drug I wonder if, not only will this make us more susceptible to catching COVID- 19, but actually make it worse if we do!

Happy Days- more reason to stay in with a good book for the foreseeable future!

0 likes, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • Edited

    I don't believe prednisone is an anti-inflammatory drug.

    Based on a quick bit of research on corticosteroids vs NSAIDS:

    "Corticosteroids are a type of hormone, and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories) are non-narcotic pain relievers. Both medications are prescribed to reduce inflammation in the body."

    Others with more knowledge may be along to comment however, I'm not worried about being on prednisone in this instance.

    • Edited

      Corticosteroids are a group of the most effective antiinflammatory drugs available. And NSAIDs are NON-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Anything that reduces inflammation is an anti-inflammatory...

    • Posted

      I have been on Prednisone for over 2 years & it is an anti inflammatory drug. PVNS is an inflammatory disease. Being on Prednisone long term takes away most of our immune system.

  • Posted

    Prednisone (same as Prednisolone) reduces inflammation as a result of suppressing the immune system response. By suppressing the immune system Prednisone actually makes you more vulnerable to infections. Suggest you Google "does Prednisone suppress your immune system?" and see what it says. Don't want to scare anyone but if on Prednisone we need to be extra careful to avoid contracting a virus. Stay at home, be safe.

  • Posted

    It was mentioned in the paper - but as OTC cortisone which is available in France. But what is the choice? If you are social distancing and being really careful you may never get it at all. That has to be my hope - if my husband got it, it would be curtains ...

    • Posted

      I agree, we need our medication so- it is about hunkering down ( and protecting both ourselves and our OH's) and enjoying what we have. Make sure Eileen ( as I am sure you will) that you protect yourself and your OH.

      Have hit the garden in the last two days so am now doing a really good 'Hilda Overall ' impression.

      Soooo wanted to go to the garden centre to replenish the bald patches but no... internet will do.

      I am really keen to reduce to minimise my risk but know that too fast is bad news.

      I do think we need to be really sensible and think about not overloaded our health services.

      Stay safe and positive. x

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.