Tag: Prednisone psychosis

While prednisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, studies have shown that some patients, especially those on high doses, can experience psychological side effects ranging from mild mood changes to severe psychiatric disturbances. So, does prednisone make you high? The answer is nuanced, as it can induce a feeling of euphoria, but it is not a recreational drug.

According to a systematic review published in 2023, up to 11% of patients using systemic glucocorticoids can experience symptoms of mania, a component of steroid-induced neuropsychiatric disorders. This highlights the significant psychiatric risks associated with corticosteroids and the importance of understanding how to avoid steroid psychosis through careful medication management and monitoring.

Up to 18% of patients taking high-dose corticosteroids may experience psychiatric side effects, with steroid psychosis being one of the more severe manifestations. Understanding what does steroid psychosis look like is vital for patients and their families to recognize the symptoms early and seek appropriate medical help.

Severe psychiatric reactions, including psychosis, occur in approximately 5% to 18% of patients treated with corticosteroids [1.8.1, 1.3.1]. This article explores the complex question: why do steroids cause psychosis? It delves into the underlying pharmacological mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical presentation of this serious side effect.