Prednisolone Overview

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress an overactive immune system. It mimics the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism and stress responses. Prednisolone works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Uses:

Prednisolone is used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Lupus
• Psoriasis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Allergic disorders
• Endocrine disorders
• Conditions affecting the skin, eyes, lungs, stomach, nervous system, or blood cells

Mechanism of Action:

Prednisolone has predominantly glucocorticoid activity, which primarily affects the immune response and reduces inflammation. It has minimal mineralocorticoid activity, meaning it does not significantly impact the body's electrolyte and water balance.

FDA Approval:

Prednisolone was approved by the FDA in 1955.

Warnings:

• Fungal Infections: Do not use prednisolone if you have a fungal infection.
• Immune System Suppression: Prednisolone can weaken your immune system, making it easier to get infections or worsen existing ones. Inform your doctor about any recent illnesses or infections.

Precautions:

Before taking prednisolone, inform your doctor if you have had any of the following conditions:

• Active tuberculosis
• Thyroid disorder
• Herpes infection of the eyes
• Stomach ulcers, ulcerative colitis, or diverticulitis
• Depression, mental illness, or psychosis
• Liver disease (especially cirrhosis)
• High blood pressure
• Osteoporosis
• Muscle disorder (e.g., myasthenia gravis)
• Multiple sclerosis

Special Considerations:

• Diabetes: Prednisolone can increase blood sugar levels. You may need to adjust your diabetes medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is unknown whether prednisolone can harm an unborn baby or if it passes into breast milk. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Administration:

• Take prednisolone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter the dose or duration without consulting your doctor.
• Measure liquid medicine with a dosing syringe, spoon, or cup. Shake the oral suspension well before measuring a dose.
• Disintegrating tablets should be kept in their blister pack until use. Open the package with dry hands, place the tablet in your mouth, and allow it to dissolve without chewing.

Dosage Adjustments:

• Your dosage may need to be adjusted during periods of unusual stress, such as illness, fever, infection, surgery, or medical emergencies. Inform your doctor about any such situations.
• Do not stop taking prednisolone suddenly. Follow your doctor's instructions for tapering the dose.

Storage:

• Store prednisolone at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Missed Dose:

• If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Overdose:

• Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Overdose is not expected to be life-threatening but can cause long-term side effects if used in high doses for extended periods.

Avoid While Taking Prednisolone:

• Do not receive live vaccines as they may not work well and could cause complications.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have infections. Seek preventive treatment if exposed to chickenpox or measles.

Side Effects:

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Shortness of breath, swelling, rapid weight gain
• Bruising, thinning skin, or non-healing wounds
• Severe depression, personality changes, unusual behavior
• New or unusual pain in an arm, leg, or back
• Bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe upper stomach pain spreading to the back, nausea, vomiting
• Seizures
• Low potassium (symptoms: leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling)

Common side effects include:

• Fluid retention (swelling in hands or ankles)
• Dizziness
• Changes in menstrual periods
• Headache
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Stomach discomfort, bloating

Drug Interactions:

Prednisolone may interact with various medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking or plan to start/stop.

For detailed dosage information and further details, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.