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Prednisolone

Prednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid, one of the corticosteroid group, supplied as tablets. It lowers inflammation and reduces immune system activity, which makes it useful in several inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions. Tablets are taken by mouth, and the effect begins within one to two hours, though how long it lasts varies.

Medicine containing Prednisolone

Prednisolone

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Asthma, Allergic Reaction

5 · 10 · 20 · 40mg

Prednisolone tablets are a corticosteroid for rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and allergic reactions. You can choose from several strengths and pack sizes. You see the price per tablet for each option.

FromUS$0.33/ tabletView

Key points

  • Prednisolone is a glucocorticoid that acts on gene expression inside cells to reduce inflammation and immune activity.
  • It is used in rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and allergic reactions, among other inflammatory conditions.
  • Blood sugar control can be affected, and elderly patients need cautious use.

What prednisolone is used for

Prednisolone is prescribed across endocrine, gastrointestinal, respiratory and inflammatory conditions. It helps manage rheumatoid arthritis and chronic asthma, and it is given during allergic states and severe allergic reaction episodes. The aim is to calm immune activity and ease the swelling and discomfort that come with it.

How it works

The tablet is a synthetic version of a hormone the body makes naturally. It crosses cell membranes and binds to receptors in the cytoplasm, then alters how genes are expressed. The result is less production of the chemicals that drive inflammation, and quieter immune system activity. Tissue damage and internal discomfort ease as a result.

Forms and strengths

Generic prednisolone tablets come in 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg strengths, and tablets are the only form supplied. Pharmacy partners in India ship orders to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

Safety

Do not take prednisolone if you have a systemic infection or a known hypersensitivity to it. Tell your prescriber about diabetes or blood pressure problems, since the medicine can affect blood sugar control and cause fluid retention or raised blood pressure. Use is cautious in elderly patients and in children. NSAIDs and antidiabetics interact with it. Side effects range from indigestion, increased appetite and mood changes to insomnia, fluid retention and hypertension. Bone fracture and HPA axis suppression are serious effects needing immediate medical attention. In pregnancy, use only if the benefits outweigh the risks; for breastfeeding, confirm suitability with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.

What the sources say

  • After more than three weeks of treatment at 5 mg prednisolone or equivalent, withdrawal should not be abrupt (SmPC).
  • Clinical assessment of disease activity may be needed during withdrawal (SmPC).
  • Patients on corticosteroid therapy who face unusual stress may need a higher dose of a rapidly acting corticosteroid before, during and after the stressful situation (DailyMed).
  • In less severe disease, treatment may be started with alternate-day therapy (DailyMed).

Further reading

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