Prednisolone
Prednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid that mimics cortisol, the body's own adrenal hormone. It switches off large parts of the inflammatory and immune response at the level of gene transcription, which is why it works broadly rather than against one target. It is used in autoimmune inflammation, severe allergy, and asthma.
It is taken with food in the morning, matching the body's own cortisol peak and disturbing sleep less. Combining it with ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid or diclofenac raises the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding, since both act on the gastric lining. It raises blood glucose, so glucose and HbA1c are followed, and it depletes potassium, calcium, vitamin D and zinc, which is why potassium, calcium and vitamin D are monitored. Long courses also affect bone density. Because the adrenal glands wind down their own output during treatment, the course must not be stopped abruptly.
Fever or any infection deserves prompt attention, since the usual signs are damped and infections progress further before they declare themselves. Black or bloody stools, severe stomach pain, marked thirst and urination, or severe weakness and dizziness after a course ends all mean see a doctor.
Reference information, not medical advice. Discuss any change with your doctor.