Prednisolone
What It Is Used For
Prednisolone is a corticosteroid (steroid). It calms inflammation and an overactive immune system. It is used for asthma and COPD flare-ups, severe allergies, skin conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, some kidney and blood conditions, other autoimmune diseases, and some cancers.
How to Take It
Take it once a day in the morning with or after breakfast, unless your doctor says otherwise. The dose varies widely, from 5 mg to 60 mg a day or more, depending on the condition. If you have taken it for more than 3 weeks or at a high dose, do not stop suddenly; your doctor will reduce the dose slowly.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to prednisolone or have a serious infection that is not being treated, such as a fungal infection of the whole body. Do not have live vaccines while taking high doses.
Side Effects
Short courses: increased appetite, indigestion, trouble sleeping, mood changes and higher blood sugar. Long-term use: weight gain, a rounder face, thin skin and easy bruising, weak bones, high blood pressure, cataracts or glaucoma, muscle weakness and more infections. Get medical help for black stools, severe stomach pain, signs of infection, or big changes in mood or behaviour.
Precautions
Avoid close contact with people who have chickenpox, shingles or measles if you have not had them, and see a doctor quickly if you are exposed. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, a stomach ulcer, past tuberculosis, glaucoma, weak bones or a history of mental illness.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
It can be used in pregnancy when needed; your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks. At usual doses it is generally considered acceptable while breastfeeding.
Interactions
NSAIDs and aspirin raise the risk of stomach ulcers. It can raise blood sugar and change the effect of diabetes medicines and warfarin. Water tablets can lower potassium further. Rifampicin, carbamazepine and phenytoin can reduce its effect.
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light and moisture, out of the reach of children.
Checked by the Oshud Alo pharmacy team. For information only; follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Prednisolone