What medication is most likely causing the symptoms in Sam Liu's case?

• A. Celecoxib
• B. Hydroxychloroquine
• C. Prednisone
• D. Aspirin

Answer: (C)

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication primarily used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. In Sam Liu's case, the symptoms he is experiencing are likely related to the side effects commonly associated with corticosteroids. These can include increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, insomnia, and cardiovascular effects.

Corticosteroids like prednisone work by mimicking the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in your adrenal glands. While they can be very effective at managing conditions like arthritis, allergies, and autoimmune diseases, they also carry a risk of significant side effects, particularly when used long-term or at high doses. Recognizing these symptoms as potential prednisone side effects is crucial for proper management and patient education.

The other medications listed—Celecoxib, Hydroxychloroquine, and Aspirin—have a different mechanism of action and associated side effect profiles, which do not typically overlap with the symptoms predominantly caused by prednisone.