Prednisone

Prednisone is a steroid that can decrease hemolysis caused by PNH. It may make the complement system less active. It may also increase counts of white blood cells and platelets in some people.

Prednisone does not stop all hemolysis, however. And it does have a lot side effects, especially if taken for a long time. So doctors disagree about whether it should be used by people with PNH.

Most people who take prednisone for a long time use it only every other day. This schedule eases the most severe side effects of prednisone.

If your hemolysis is worse than normal, your doctor may recommend that you take 60 mg for 3 to 4 days, then gradually cut back to the regular schedule.