Prednisolone

 Drug uses

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that is used in the treatment of various conditions like allergies, arthritis, breathing problems (e.g., asthma), certain blood disorders, intestinal problems and skin disorders. In some cases, it is also prescribed for collagen diseases (e.g., lupus), certain eye diseases (e.g., keratitis), cancer (e.g., leukemia), endocrine problems (e.g., adrenocortical insufficiency) and swelling due to some conditions.

How it is taken

Prednisolone can be taken by mouth with or without food. Swallow the pill whole without crushing or chewing it. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that works by adjusting the body’s immune system to various conditions and it also reduces inflammation.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Prednisolone then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

 Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or have a systemic fungal infection, a certain type of malaria, inflammation of the optic nerve, or herpes infection of the eye, are scheduled to have a live or attenuated live vaccination (eg, smallpox) or you are taking mifepristone.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Prednisone and contact your doctor immediately.

Prednisone is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Prednisone may affect your blood sugar level and you must monitor your blood sugar levels constantly. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.

Prednisone should be used with utmost caution in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Prednisone weakens your immune system and hence, you must avoid contact with anyone who has infections like cold, chills or sore throat. Patients, who have not had chickenpox, shingles, or measles, avoid contact with anyone who does.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Prednisone before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.

Periodic lab tests including adrenal function tests may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
 

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are acne, clumsiness, dizziness, facial flushing, feeling of a whirling motion, general body discomfort, headache, increased appetite, increased sweating, nausea, nervousness, sleeplessness, upset stomach. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), black, tarry stools, changes in body fat, changes in menstrual period, changes in skin color, chest pain, easy bruising or bleeding, infection (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat), mental or mood changes (e.g., depression), muscle pain, weakness, or wasting, seizures, severe nausea or vomiting, sudden severe dizziness or headache, swelling of feet or legs, tendon or bone pain, thinning of skin, unusual skin sensation, unusual weight gain, vision changes or other eye problems, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.