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Compare Prednisone vs. Remicade

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Prednisone (Rayos, Prednisone Intensol) and Remicade (infliximab) are both used to treat autoimmune conditions, but they have some key differences. Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid available in generic form, while Remicade is a biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) given through an IV infusion. Prednisone works by calming down your immune system to reduce inflammation, whereas Remicade blocks a specific protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to lower inflammation. Prednisone can be taken at home, but Remicade must be administered by a healthcare provider in a healthcare setting such as an infusion clinicr or provider's ofice. Additionally, Remicade is typically given every 6 to 8 weeks, whereas prednisone dosing can vary daily based on your condition. Prednisone is known for side effects like mood changes and weight gain, especially with long-term use, while Remicade can cause serious infections and has a higher risk of developing certain cancers.

  • Prednisone
    Remicade (infliximab)
  • Prednisone
    Remicade (infliximab)

  • Summary of Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth by adults and children to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as allergies and certain skin conditions. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some of the common short-term side effects of prednisone include stomach irritation and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a month or longer, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system.

    Summary for Biologic DMARD
    Prescription only

    Remicade (infliximab) is an injectable medication used to treat many autoimmune conditions, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's given through an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare provider.

  • Indications of Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Indications for

    This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

    •Allergies or allergic reactions
    •Skin conditions
    •Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
    •Eye conditions
    •Lung conditions
    •Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)
    •Conditions related to blood cells
    •Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia
    •Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
    •Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
    •Lupus
    Indications for
    •Moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease (CD)
    •Moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC)
    •Moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
    •Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
    •Severe plaque psoriasis (PsO)

  • Pros and Cons of Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Available as a liquid, which is a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medication
    Cons
    •Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
    •Need to taper your dose before stopping (if you took it for more than a couple of weeks)
    •Might raise your risk for infections, bone weakening, and skin problems if used long term
    •Can slow growth in children if they take it for a long period of time
    Pros and Const for Biologic DMARD
    Pros
    •Can be used for many autoimmune conditions
    •Typically only needs to be given every 6 to 8 weeks
    •Can be used in children 6 years of age and older for UC and CD
    Cons
    •Can only be given as an IV infusion by a healthcare professional
    •Can cause a lot of side effects
    •Brand name only, which can be expensive

  • Common Side Effects of Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)
    •Stomach bloating
    •Muscle weakness
    •Headache
    •Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    •Changes in your mood
    •Larger appetite (possibly leading to weight gain)
    •Higher blood sugar
    Common Side Effects for
    •Infections
    •Nausea
    •Infusion-related reactions (e.g., headache, flushing, shortness of breath, rash)
    •Headache
    •Diarrhea
    •Stomach pain
    •Sore throat
    •Cough
    •Rash
    •Bronchitis
    •Indigestion
    •Tiredness
    •General pain
    •Joint pain

  • Warnings of Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Common Side Effects for
    •Greater risk of infections
    •Mood and behavior changes
    •Reduced adrenal gland function
    •Changes in heart and kidney function
    •Stomach problems
    •Bone problems with long-term use
    •Eye problems with long-term use
    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious or deadly infections
    •Cancer
    •Liver problems and liver failure
    •Heart problems
    •Low blood cell counts
    •Nervous system problems
    •Medications to avoid

  • Prices with our coupons for Prednisone vs. Remicade

    Learn more about Prednisone
    Learn more about Remicade

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