Prednisolone (Prednisolone)

Description

Indications

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid medication that is used to manage inflammation and modulate an overactive immune system. This medication functions by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, which regulates metabolism and responds to stress. Corticosteroids are essential substances that are naturally produced by the body for proper functioning. Prednisolone effectively hinders the release of pro-inflammatory substances in the body, thus reducing inflammation.

Prednisolone is used to treat a range of inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, allergic disorders, endocrine disorders, and conditions affecting the skin, eyes, lungs, stomach, nervous system, and blood cells. Prednisolone may also be used to alleviate symptoms related to certain forms of cancer.

Uses and Dosage

Prednisolone is available in various forms, including tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, solution, and suspension. Your physician will instruct you on the appropriate dosing schedule based on your condition and response to treatment. Ensure to take prednisolone exactly as prescribed and to avoid modifying the dose without medical advice.

To take the orally disintegrating tablet, peel back the foil packaging using dry hands. The tablet should be placed on the tongue, where it will dissolve quickly, and may be swallowed with or without water. The tablet should not be chewed, split, or broken.

Your physician may adjust your dose of prednisolone during treatment to ensure optimal results. This may be necessary in the event of significant changes in your health, such as surgery, illness, infection, or severe asthma attack. Inform your doctor of any improvements, worsening of symptoms, or changes in health during treatment.

Prednisolone is a means of managing an ongoing condition, but it cannot cure it. Continue taking prednisolone, even if you feel well, and to avoid abruptly discontinuing the medication without medical advice. Abrupt cessation of prednisolone may result in insufficient production of naturally occurring steroids, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, slowed movements, upset stomach, weight loss, changes in skin color, sores in the mouth, and a craving for salt.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• nausea
• heartburn
• headache
• dizziness
• changes in menstrual period
• difficulty sleeping
• increased sweating
• acne

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• blurred vision
• decrease in the amount of urine
• dizziness
• fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
• headache
• irritability
• mental depression
• mood changes
• nervousness
• noisy, rattling breathing
• numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
• pounding in the ears
• shortness of breath
• swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs
• trouble thinking, speaking, or walking
• troubled breathing at rest
• weight gain

Caution

Before taking prednisolone, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, including an allergy to prednisolone or prednisone, or any other type of allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other complications.

Please provide your doctor or pharmacist with a complete medical history, especially if you have a history of eye disease, such as cataracts or glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, thyroid issues, diabetes, stomach or intestinal problems, osteoporosis, past or current infections, bleeding problems, blood clots, or mental health conditions such as psychosis, anxiety, or depression. If you have a history of low salt levels in your blood, or seizures, please inform your healthcare provider.

Prednisolone may cause dizziness and the use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Avoid operating machinery or engaging in activities that require alertness until the effects of this drug have diminished.

This medication may cause stomach bleeding, and the daily use of alcohol may increase the risk of this side effect. Limit your alcohol intake.

This product may contain alcohol, sugar, and/or aspartame. If you have diabetes, liver disease, alcohol dependence, phenylketonuria, or any other condition that requires you to limit these substances in your diet, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for safe usage instructions.

Long-term use of corticosteroid medications can affect your body’s ability to respond to physical stress. Prior to undergoing surgery or any emergency treatment, or if you become seriously ill or injured, inform your doctor or dentist of your use of this medication, or any recent use within the past 12 months.

This medication may also mask signs of infection and increase the risk of infection or worsening existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have contagious infections, such as chickenpox, measles, or the flu. Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for further information.

In children, long-term use of prednisolone may slow down growth. Ensure that your child receives regular check-ups to monitor their height and growth.

Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, particularly in regards to bone loss and pain, stomach and intestinal bleeding, and changes in mental health, such as confusion.

If you are pregnant, prednisolone should only be used when necessary. There is a rare risk of harm to the unborn baby, so the risks and benefits of this medication should be discussed with your doctor. Infants born to mothers who have used this medication for an extended period of time may have hormonal imbalances. If you notice symptoms such as persistent nausea or vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn, consult your doctor immediately.

Form and Strength

Prednisolone is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Prednisolone tablet:
  • 5mg

FAQ

How quickly does prednisolone work?

Prednisone generally works very quickly, usually within one to four days. Some people notice the effects of prednisone hours after taking the first dose.

Does prednisolone make you sleepy?

Prednisone does not usually cause sleepiness but may make you feel dizzy, irritable with mood swings, or cause you to have trouble sleeping (insomnia). If your dose is stopped too quickly or if you take prednisone for a long period of time you may feel severely fatigued.

Resources

1. https://arthritis.ca/treatment/medication/medication-reference-guide/medications/prednisone#:~:text=Prednisone%20generally%20works%20very%20quickly,after%20taking%20the%20first%20dose
2. https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/prednisone-make-you-sleepy-3569214/#:~:text=Official%20answer&text=Prednisone%20does%20not%20usually%20cause,you%20may%20feel%20severely%20fatigued
3. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/prednisolone/how-and-when-to-take-prednisolone-tablets-and-liquid/
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/prednisolone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20075189
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a615042.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/prednisolone.html#uses