What is the purpose of taking Prednisone during MOPP chemotherapy? Is there an alternative that is easier to live with?

Hello, I am Jose Borbolla, I´m a hematologist and a bone marrow transplanter in Mexico (www.imeht.org). Prednisone, like most corticosteroids is used in lymphomas (Hodgkins and non-Hodgkins) and other lymphoid neoplasias (such as multiple myeloma) because it has anti-tumoral effect. In some cases very high doses are used. Event though there are a number of corcitosteroids, proven chemotherapy regimens usually use a particular one, and doctors are sometimes careful not to change it as not to decrease the effectiveness of the therapy. The good news is that the use of Prednisone is usually not prolonged and the side-effects usually go away once the treatment stops. I am sure your doctor has warned you regarding the increase in blood glucose that sometimes appears, as well as possible fatigue or weakness. Hope this has been helpful. JRBE