Predisone is the only other alternative for antibiotic therapy. ...

Prednisone suppresses the immune system - how can it help fight infection? I was told that you are at a far greater risk of infection when on Prednisone and to take extra precautions by my Dr. when I had to take it?

I did not say it cures the infection rather reduces the inflammation that causes the symptoms so the infection can then heal. Eating healthy and getting extra rest will also boost your immune system. Also avoiding alcohol and caffeine while you are sick becuause both can cause dehydration if you are not careful. Predisone can be a bad drug for some but provides much needed relief for many on a short term basis and is worth the risk of side effects for those who are suffering immensly.

I am also speaking specfically in regards to Predisone and Sinus Infections (Sinusitus) Vs. Anitibitotic therapy.

Please note that prednisone is not an alternative for antibiotic therapy. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections; steroids treat inflammation and are very potent. I also will tell you that doctors take indepth courses in pharmacology of all medicines as do nurses. I am an RN and have indepth knowledge of all medications I administer. When in doubt or to collaborate I consult with the pharmacist. A pharmacist is a specialist in the drug only not the disease which it is being utilized for. Currently I am suffering through an 8 week treatment with Prednisone for my ulcerative colitis. I agree it is a horrible medication and this is the first time in 20 yrs I have been ill enough to need it. Although my husband is afraid to come home from work because of my rage and depression my doctor offered me some Xanax to help with the side effects. This has helped immensely as well as trying to work some exercise into my routine. I know this is more difficult with a patient with MS. Please be sure that you both speak with the physician about the side effects of depression, etc. Short term antidepressant therapy may help, if the patient is already on antidepressants (as many with MS are) another may need to be added. Also if he is on a once a day dose of prednisone take it before 9AM in the morning to assist with getting a little extra sleep. Personally, I have to take a small dose of Xanax in the afternoon and then one before bed in order to sleep at least 4-5 hours. My dose just began tapering today and it will take me 7 weeks to taper off. This is medically necessary otherwise the system will go into shock. Remember steroids assist with inflammation and healing but they also lower the immune system and as you know with MS the immune system is already lowered. I hope your husband's doctor is managing his diabetes with either diet or medications, hopefully this side effect will go away as he tapers off the steroids. I hope this has helped you both. I can tell that I have not threatened to kill anyone so far today and I have only take one half of the dose of Xanax I can take.

Good luck and best wishes to you both.,