Prednisolone (ophthalmic)
Synonyms
Approved Treatment Indication:
Pulmonary Tuberculosis, Atopic Dermatitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Hemolytic Anemia, Multiple Sclerosis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Brain Neoplasms, Asthma, Collagen Diseases, Thrombocytopenia, Hypercalcemia, Inflammation, Leukemia, Edema, Erythema Multiforme, Pemphigus, Uveitis, Thyroiditis, Synovitis, Mycosis Fungoides, Adrenal Insufficiency, Conjunctivitis, Berylliosis, Dermatitis Herpetiformis, Nephrotic Syndrome, Rheumatic Diseases, Sarcoidosis, Serum Sickness
Summary
What conditions prednisolone is used for
Prednisolone is used to treat inflammatory conditions like arthritis, which is joint inflammation, asthma, which is a lung condition causing breathing difficulty, and allergies, which are reactions to substances. It's also used for autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks the body, and certain cancers.
How prednisolone works in the body
Prednisolone works by mimicking cortisol, which is a hormone from the adrenal glands. It reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune system's response, which is the body's defense against illness. This helps decrease symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain.
Directions for Use
Prednisolone is usually taken orally, which means by mouth, in tablet form. The starting dose for adults can range from 5 mg to 60 mg per day, depending on the condition. It's often taken once daily, usually in the morning with food to prevent stomach upset.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of prednisolone
Common side effects of prednisolone include increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain, mood changes, which are alterations in emotional state, and stomach upset, which includes nausea and abdominal pain. These effects can vary in severity.
Warnings and Precautions
Prednisolone can weaken the immune system, increasing infection risk. Long-term use may cause osteoporosis, which is bone thinning, and high blood pressure. It's not recommended for people with systemic fungal infections, which are serious fungal infections.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
WHO Essential Medicine
Known Teratogen
Pharmaceutical Class
