Which of the following is a potential side effect of prednisone?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid frequently used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. One of the common side effects of prednisone is an increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain in some patients. This occurs because corticosteroids can stimulate appetite-regulating hormones, increasing the desire to eat. Additionally, prednisone can cause various metabolic changes, promoting fat deposition and altering glucose metabolism, which further contributes to changes in appetite and eating behavior.

Other potential side effects of prednisone include hyperglycemia, rather than hypoglycemia, due to its effects on glucose metabolism. Furthermore, while corticosteroids can help manage inflammation and immune responses, their immunosuppressive nature may actually lead to a decreased ability to fight infections, rather than a decreased risk of infection. Thus, recognizing the side effects associated with the use of prednisone is crucial for patient education and management.