Prednisone
Generic Name: Prednisone
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of various inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune disorders
Asthma exacerbation, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Allergic reactions
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Prednisone works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Prednisone exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
5-60 mg per day depending on disease
0.14-2 mg/kg/day depending on disease
Start at lower end; use caution due to risk of osteoporosis
Variable depending on condition (sometimes >100 mg/day for short pulses)
No adjustment necessary
No adjustment necessary; converted to active prednisolone in liver
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, fluid retention, mood swings
Adrenal suppression, infection risk, hyperglycemia, osteoporosis, cataracts
Systemic fungal infections
Taper dose gradually after long-term use to prevent adrenal crisis
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
NSAIDs (GI bleeding), antidiabetics, CYP3A4 inducers/inhibitors, vaccines (live)
Take with food to prevent GI upset
Avoid; increases risk of GI ulcers
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Increased risk of cleft palate in 1st trimester; use if benefits outweigh risks
Excreted in milk; consider waiting 4 hrs after dose before nursing
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Do not stop abruptly. Take with food in the morning to prevent insomnia.
Take as soon as remembered if same day. Do not double doses.
Blood glucose, blood pressure, weight, signs of infection, bone density
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Prednisone was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.