Prednisolone

Prednisolone is a type of corticosteroid medication that is used to treat a wide range of health issues, such as allergies, arthritis, asthma, skin conditions, and gastrointestinal diseases. It is available in several forms, including Syrup, Tablets, Suspension, and IV injection. Prednisolone can be used to treat acute and chronic inflammation, pain, and swelling.

Uses For

Prednisolone is used to treat conditions including:

  • Allergies
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Dermatitis/psoriasis
  • Eye conditions
  • Gastrointestinal disorders
  • Kidney disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sinusitis
Brand Name Prednisolone
Type
Weight
Generic Prednisolone
Manufacturer
Available in English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Prednisolone works by blocking the action of a certain substance (cytokines) in the body. This reduces inflammation and pain. It also suppresses the immune system to prevent the body from attacking itself.

How long does it take to work?

It usually takes a few days to a few weeks for prednisolone to take effect. The amount of time it takes for the medication to start working will vary depending on the condition being treated and the person’s response to the medication.

Absorption

Prednisolone is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. After oral administration, the drug is rapidly absorbed and distributed into the small intestine and breaks down to form its active metabolites.

Route of Elimination

Prednisolone is eliminated primarily through the kidneys and is also excreted in the bile and urine. The half-life of the drug is 1-2 hours, which means that it is cleared from the body within that time frame.

Dosage

Adult-
Nephrotic Syndrome:
  • Initial: 2 mg/kg/day (maximum 80 mg/day) in divided doses 3 to 4 times/day until urine is protein free for 3 consecutive days (maximum: 28 days); followed by 1 to 1.5 mg/kg/dose given every other day for 4 weeks.
  • Maintenance dose: 0.5 to 1 mg/kg/ dose given every other day for 3 to 6 months.
Anti-inflammatory: 5 to 60 mg per day in divided doses 1 to 4 times/day.

Acute Asthma: 40-60 mg/day PO in single daily dose or divided q12 hr for 3-10 days.

Allergic Conditions:
  • Day 1: 10 mg PO before breakfast, 5 mg after lunch and after dinner, and 10 mg at bedtime.
  • Day 2: 5 mg PO before breakfast, after lunch, and after dinner and 10 mg at bedtime.
  • Day 3: 5 mg PO before breakfast, after lunch, after dinner, and at bedtime.
  • Day 4: 5 mg PO before breakfast, after lunch, and at bedtime.
  • Day 5: 5 mg PO before breakfast and at bedtime.
  • Day 6: 5 mg PO before breakfast.

Pediatric-
Asthma:
  • 1 year: Acute: 10 mg orally every 12 hours. Maintenance: 10 mg orally every other day.
  • 1 to 4 years: Acute: 20 mg orally every 12 hours. Maintenance: 20 mg orally every other day.
  • 5 to 12 years: Acute: 30 mg orally every 12 hours. Maintenance: 30 mg orally every other day.
  • 12 years: Acute: 40 mg orally every 12 hours. Maintenance: 40 mg orally every other day.
Anti-inflammatory: 0.05 to 2 mg/kg/day divided 1 to 4 times/day.

Immunosuppression: 0.05 to 2 mg/kg/day divided 1 to 4 times/day.

Prednisolone is available in various forms and dosages, and the exact dose should be determined by your doctor. The common adult dose is 1-4 mg per day. Children may have a different dosage, depending on their age, weight, and health condition. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking prednisolone.

Administration

Prednisolone can be taken orally, by injection, or in topical forms such as creams and ointments. Generally, it is taken once or twice daily. Your doctor may recommend a different dosage or regimen depending on your specific needs.

Side Effect

Common side effects of prednisolone include:

  • Headache
  • Mild stomach pain
  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Mood changes
  • Weight gain

Toxicity

Long-term use of prednisolone can lead to serious complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure, bone loss, and increased risk of infection. The risk is higher in people who are taking high doses or long-term use. It is important to regularly monitor your health when taking prednisolone.

Precautions

Before taking prednisolone, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or any type of infection should not take prednisolone without first discussing it with a health care professional.

Interaction

Prednisolone can interact with some other medications, including anticoagulants, antibiotics, and asthma medications. It is important to discuss all medications and supplements with your doctor before beginning treatment.

Drug Interaction

Prednisolone may also interact with certain drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin, and phenytoin. It is important to discuss any medications and supplements with your doctor before beginning treatment.

Food Interactions

Prednisolone should not be taken with alcohol or grapefruit juice because these can increase the risk of side effects. It is also important to avoid taking it with other medications or supplements that can interact with it.

Pregnancy Use

Prednisolone is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and it should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Women should use an effective form of birth control while taking prednisolone.

Lactation Use

Prednisolone is not recommended for use during lactation. Breastfeeding women should only take this medication if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Acute Overdose

If someone has overdosed on prednisolone, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion.

Contraindication

Prednisolone should not be used by people who have had a severe allergic reaction in the past to a corticosteroid drug, or by individuals with tuberculosis, fungal infections, or a weakened immune system.

Use Direction

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prednisolone. Take it exactly as prescribed, and do not take more or less than prescribed. Do not stop taking the medication without first consulting with a healthcare professional.

Storage Condition

Prednisolone should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be stored in its original container, and kept away from children.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of prednisolone is approximately 0.5 L/kg, which indicates that the drug is distributed throughout the body in a relatively small area.

Half Life

The half-life of prednisolone is 1-2 hours. This means that it is cleared from the body within that time frame.

Clearance

Prednisolone is cleared from the body by the kidneys. The drug has a clearance rate of 0.5 L/hr/kg, which indicates that it is rapidly cleared from the body.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Prednisolone

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
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