Prednisolone
Rx Only
Generic NamePrednisolone
Therapeutic ClassCorticosteroid
Common Dose5–60 mg daily depending on condition
Max / 24h100 mg
PregnancyCategory C
Indications ▼
Inflammatory and autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
Severe allergies and asthma exacerbations
Adrenal insufficiency
Certain hematologic and oncologic conditions
Shock or severe systemic inflammation
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Binds to glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to suppress inflammation and immune response.
Pharmacokinetics: Well absorbed orally; metabolized in liver; excreted primarily via urine; half-life ~3–4 hours; biological effects longer due to receptor binding.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 5–60 mg orally daily, dose individualized per condition | 100 mg |
| Elderly | Start at lower end; monitor for side effects | 100 mg |
| Children | 0.14–2 mg/kg/day orally in divided doses | Depends on indication |
Note: Taper gradually after long-term use to avoid adrenal insufficiency. Can be given with food to reduce GI irritation.
Side Effects ▼
Hyperglycemia, fluid retention, weight gain
Increased infection risk, mood changes, insomnia
Osteoporosis, adrenal suppression with long-term use
Gastrointestinal irritation or ulceration
Contraindications ▼
Systemic fungal infections
Hypersensitivity to prednisolone or other corticosteroids
Caution in uncontrolled infections, diabetes, hypertension, peptic ulcer
Drug Interaction ▼
Concurrent NSAIDs increase risk of GI ulceration
May reduce efficacy of vaccines
CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers can alter plasma levels
Diuretics may worsen hypokalemia risk
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Use only if benefits outweigh risks; potential for fetal growth restriction
Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; monitor infant for adrenal effects
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Effective anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent in a wide range of conditions
Rapid symptom relief in acute exacerbations of asthma and autoimmune diseases
Well-studied in numerous clinical trials and guidelines
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take exactly as prescribed; do not stop abruptly after long-term use
Take with food to minimize GI upset
Report signs of infection, unusual bruising, or hyperglycemia
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F)
Protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Bangladesh:
Adam® 5 mg Tablet
Adam® 20 mg Tablet
Cortan® 2 mg Tablet
Cortan® 5 mg Tablet
Cortan® 10 mg Tablet
Cortan® 20 mg Tablet
Cortisol® 5 mg Tablet
Cortisol® 10 mg Tablet
G‑Prednisolone® 5 mg Tablet
Inflagic® 20 mg Tablet
P‑Cort® 5 mg Tablet
Pred® 5 mg Tablet
Pred® 10 mg Tablet
Pred® 20 mg Tablet
Predimax® 5 mg Tablet
Predimax® 10 mg Tablet
Predimax® 20 mg Tablet
Pednisol® 5 mg Tablet
Pednisol® 10 mg Tablet
Pednisol® 20 mg Tablet
Deltasone® 5 mg Tablet
Deltasone® 10 mg Tablet
Deltasone® 20 mg Tablet
Pednil® 5 mg Tablet
Pednil® 10 mg Tablet
Kidpred® 5 mg/5 ml Oral Solution
Pedipred® 5 mg/5 ml Oral Solution
P‑Cort® 5 mg/5 ml Oral Solution
Global:
Adam® 5 mg Tablet
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider for professional guidance.