Prednisone is a corticosteroid (cortisone-like medicine or steroid). It works on the immune system to help relieve swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Prednisone is used to reduce inflammation and calm down an overactive immune system. It has predominantly glucocorticoid activity and low mineralocorticoid activity, which means it affects the immune response and inflammation rather than affecting the body's balance of electrolytes and water. Prednisone is in a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works to treat patients with low levels of corticosteroids by replacing steroids that are normally produced naturally by the body. Corticosteroid medicines include cortisone, hydrocortisone and prednisone, among others. They help treat rashes, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma and several other conditions. But corticosteroids also may have serious side effects. Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid that treats a variety of health conditions, ranging from allergies and eczema to autoimmune disorders. Prednisone dosages vary depending on the condition being treated and how severe your symptoms are. Overview: Prednisone is used to treat a variety of inflammatory, autoimmune, and hormonal conditions. It works by suppressing the body’s immune response and reducing inflammation. Common side. Prednisone is a glucocorticoid medication mostly used to suppress the immune system and decrease inflammation in conditions such as asthma, COPD, and rheumatologic diseases. [3] Learn about prednisone usage and dosing. Read the latest news and reviews about the drug as well as potential side effects and popular alternatives. Prednisone is used to treat allergic disorders, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and arthritis. Learn about side effects, interactions and indications. Prednisone is a steroid medication that treats a wide range of health conditions including asthma, allergic reactions, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.