I have Crohn's Disease for which I have been taking Prnisone since 11/1987, along with small bowel resections and numberous fast-tracked FDA approvoed drugs that were ineffective. I have also been diagnosed with Cushings's Disease because of the lon-term usage of Prednisone . I HATE THE STUFF! I'v even been diagnosed with steriod rage because of it. I just keep trying to taper off and then get sick again. At least the VA has granted me 1005 disability, but I would advise people to stay away from Prednisone if there is an alternative course of treatment. It has kept me alive (the checks on that every 6 months).