Prednisone oral tablet helps reduce inflammation (swelling and irritation) in the body. It’s used to treat a range of conditions, including multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. When Prescribed How to Take Before Taking Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication used to decrease inflammation. Though not a pain medication, it can help to relieve pain. It is commonly prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), gout, lupus, chronic lower back pain, and knee osteoarthritis. 7bhEQ.