Side Effects of Prednisone for FSGS in Children

FSGS, referring to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, has a high incidence in children. For children with FSGS, their parents must be very familiar with prednisone. As one type of corticosteroids, prednisone may bring these children some side effects. Knowing the side effects of prednisone for FSGS in children is able to help them accept relevant management timely.

Through suppressing immune system, prednisone is particularly effective as an immunosuppressant drug. However, it can weaken patients’ immunity so that they can’t fight against infections effectively. Children, compared with adult, are more susceptible to infections. The following is an overview of side effects of prednisone for FSGS in children.

● Cushing’s syndrome: Cushing’s syndrome is one common side effect of prednisone that is more likely to cause weight gain, obesity and facial hair growth. These side effects may affect children’s confidence largely. This is one reason why parents should give their children this medicine carefully.

● Keep children from growing: Through suppressing immune system, prednisone can easily cause growth suppression that can have a long-time physical, mental and emotional effect for users.

● Bone density loss: Without a normal immune system, mineral imbalance usually appears without any expectation. As a result, muscle weakness and osteoporosis fractures happens. Fortunately, supplying a healthy diet with calcium is able to ease these side effects timely.

● High blood pressure and glucose intolerance: High blood pressure and glucose intolerance, common side effects of prednisone, can cause the relapse of FSGS or further kidney damage. A healthy diet and correct medicine is able to deal with these two side effects that requires the parent find them as soon as they happens.

There are some other side effects of prednisone for FSGS in children. These side effects may nearly destroy these children’s confidence, so in some cases some natural alternative drugs are recommended for them to control their condition. Until now, some herbal medicines indeed can help treat FSGS.