PREDNISOLONE
Prednisolone is a corticosteroid medication that belongs to the class of glucocorticoids. It is a synthetic analog of prednisone and has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Prednisolone is commonly used to treat various inflammatory conditions and immune-mediated disorders. It is four times more potent than hydrocortisone, also more selective gluco-corticoid but fluid retention does not occur with high doses. Drug has intermediate duration of action & causes less pituitary adrenal suppression when a single morning dose or alternate day treatment is given.-Inflammatory Conditions: Prednisolone is indicated for the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and dermatitis. -Allergic Reactions: It is used to manage allergic reactions and conditions like asthma. -Autoimmune Diseases: Prednisolone is prescribed for autoimmune diseases like lupus and certain types of vasculitis. -Respiratory Conditions: It may be used to treat respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchial asthma. -Hematologic Disorders: Prednisolone can be part of the treatment for certain hematologic disorders like autoimmune hemolytic anemia. -Allergic, inflammatory, autoimmune diseases, malignancies.
-Dosage varies depending on the condition being treated. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by the healthcare provider. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual response. -5-60 mg daily in divided doses.
-Prednisolone is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug, systemic fungal infections, and during live virus vaccination. Caution is advised in the presence of active infections. -Hypersensitivity, systemic infections. Live virus immunisation. Peptic ulcer.
-Diabetes: Prednisolone can affect blood glucose levels, requiring adjustments in diabetes management. -Osteoporosis: Long-term use may lead to bone density loss, especially in postmenopausal women. Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may be recommended. -Immunosuppression: Prolonged use can suppress the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. -Peptic Ulcer: Use with caution in individuals with a history of peptic ulcer disease. -Psychiatric Effects: Mood changes, including depression or mood swings, have been reported. -Pregnancy. Diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, psychological disorders, glaucoma, diverticulitis, myasthenia gravis, hypertension, congestive cardiac failure, renal insufficency.
-Common side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, and mood changes. Serious side effects may include adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, and increased risk of infections. -Impairment of fluid, electrolyte metabolic balance, rounded face, supraclavicular hump, obesity of trunk with relatively thin limbs. Fragile skin. Delayed healing of wounds. Psychosis.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): -Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. -Anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding. -Vaccines: Live vaccines may have reduced efficacy during prednisolone therapy. -Antidiabetic Drugs: Prednisolone may alter glucose tolerance, requiring adjustments in antidiabetic medications. -Action blunted by antiepileptics. Rifampicin accelerates metabolism cyclosporine decreases metabolism. Increased bioavailability with oestrogens and oral contraceptives. Lower plasma salicylate levels. Large doses of antacids impair absorption. Increased requirement of insulin and oral hypoglycaemics.
