Hi there,

I developed the dreaded rash and landed in the E.R. It started out with extreme itching that was in one specific area. It followed by the itching moving all over my body, including inside my ears, on my head, shoulder blades, everywhere. The only place I didn't itch was my upper chest (right above my breasts) and that is where the rash appeared. I immediately took a zyrtec and it the rash spread until that kicked in then it stopped spreading remaining on my upper chest. I also developed a cluster of white bumps on the inside of my cheek as well as four other bumps that were flesh colored and hard. I called my psychiatrist who said to go to the E.R. right away. I got there and was seen. They gave me prednisone to combat the lamictal reaction (pretty standard). Unfortunately, (I think because my immune system was already compromised), I developed a severe reaction to the prednisone. I don't have choice but to keep taking the prednisone because the lamictal reaction can be fatal, where as the prednisone one is not.

The rash may take up to two weeks to go away as well as the itching. Be on the alert and if you're having the itching side effect maybe hang out at the lower dose for a while or stop it altogether, but do not increase the dose (unsolicited advice from a non-professional).

Be aware too that if you have ever had psychosis, depression, seizures, bloody stool or a couple other things that the prednisone can cause psychosis. So that is something to watch out for too. I'm relaying this information as it was relayed to me by the pharmacist. Since I'm only taking the prednisone for five days it shouldn't have that reaction but I do need to be on the look out for it just in case.

I hope this helps you. If you want to pm me you can.

Love and hugs,
Tara