Definition

A man-made drug that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system, often used to treat conditions like arthritis and allergies.

Example

The doctor prescribed prednisone to help reduce the swelling in my joints.

Conversation

Have you ever taken prednisone for your allergies?

Yeah, I tried it once, and it really helped reduce the swelling.

I heard it can have some side effects, though.

True, but sometimes it's worth it to feel better quickly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prednisone is derived from "prednisolone" (a synthetic corticosteroid) and the suffix "-one" (indicating a ketone or steroid). The root "prednisolone" itself comes from "pregnane" (a type of steroid) and "-solone" (a diminutive suffix indicating a derivative). Thus, prednisone refers to a derivative of pregnane that has been modified to have specific medicinal properties.

Memory Tip

Think of prednisone as a modified steroid ('pregnane') that helps in treating inflammation and other conditions.

Visually Confused Words