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SYSTEMIC HORMONAL PREPARATIONS, EXCL. SEX HORMONES AND INSULINS › CORTICOSTEROIDS FOR SYSTEMIC USE › CORTICOSTEROIDS FOR SYSTEMIC USE, PLAIN › Glucocorticoids
prednisone
H02AB07
Forms & Strengths
- Tablets: 1mg, 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 50mg
- Oral solution: 5mg/5mL
- Oral syrup: 5mg/5mL
Adult Dosing
- Allergic reactions: 5-60mg/day
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 5-60mg/day
- Asthma: 5-60mg/day
- Dosage tapered over time to lowest effective dose
Pediatric Dosing
- Allergic reactions: 0.14-2mg/kg/day
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 0.14-2mg/kg/day
- Asthma: 0.14-2mg/kg/day
- Maximum dose: 60mg/day
Indications
- Allergic reactions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Inflammatory conditions
Mechanism of Action
- Corticosteroid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors
- Inhibits inflammatory responses by suppressing cytokine production
- Induces lipocortin, which inhibits phospholipase A2
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Live or attenuated vaccines (unless benefits outweigh risks)
- Hypersensitivity to prednisone or other corticosteroids
Adverse Reactions
- Cushingoid symptoms
- Glaucoma
- Hypertension
- Hyperglycemia
- Adrenal suppression
- Osteoporosis
- Increased risk of infections
Drug Interactions
- Barbiturates, phenytoin, and rifampicin: decrease prednisone efficacy
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): increase prednisone concentrations
- Salicylates: increase risk of gastrointestinal ulcers
- Insulin and oral hypoglycemics: adjust doses for hyperglycemia
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use