💊 Prednisolone

Systemic Corticosteroid (Intermediate-acting Glucocorticoid)

Generic Name	Prednisolone
Drug Class	Corticosteroid (Intermediate-acting glucocorticoid)
Indications	Asthma and COPD exacerbations Allergic disorders Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases Nephrotic syndrome Rheumatologic conditions Inflammatory bowel disease
Mechanism of Action	Suppresses inflammation and immune response by inhibiting cytokines, prostaglandins, and leukocyte migration; moderate mineralocorticoid activity.
Available Forms & Strengths	• Tablet: 1 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg • Syrup: 5 mg/5 mL, 15 mg/5 mL • Dispersible tablet: 5 mg
Dosage	Adults: 5–60 mg/day orally (single or divided doses) Children: 1–2 mg/kg/day (max 60 mg/day, depending on indication)
Route	Oral
Common Side Effects	Increased appetite Weight gain Hyperglycemia Gastric irritation Mood changes
Serious Adverse Effects	Adrenal suppression, infections, hypertension, GI bleeding, osteoporosis, growth suppression (children)
Contraindications	• Systemic fungal infections • Hypersensitivity to prednisolone
Precautions	• Diabetes mellitus • Hypertension, heart failure • Peptic ulcer disease • Tuberculosis or latent infections
Drug Interactions	• NSAIDs (↑ GI bleeding risk) • Rifampicin, phenytoin (↓ steroid effect) • Live vaccines (avoid)
Pregnancy & Lactation	Pregnancy: Generally safe when indicated Lactation: Compatible; monitor infant with high doses
Storage	Store below 30°C, protect from moisture and light
References	BNF \| BNF for Children \| Goodman & Gilman

⚠️ Clinical note: Taper gradually after prolonged therapy. Monitor growth in children and blood glucose in diabetics.