Prednisone

Question 1

What is the MOA for prednisone?

Answer 1

Prednisone is a corticosteroid with antiinflammatory and immunosuppresive properties
Inhibits the production of inflammatory meidators including prostaglandins and leukotrienes - reduces inflammatory and immune response

Question 2

What are the indications for prednisone?

Answer 2

• Bronchospasm associated with asthma or CORD
• Prominent rash asssoicated with analphylaxis provided all systemic signs of anaphylazis have resolved
• Minor allergy assoicated with rash

Question 3

Contras/Cautions/Pregnancy and Prednisone?

Answer 3

Contras:

1. Known severe allergy
2. Age less than one year

Cautions:
Age less than 5 with asthma (doesnt generally have any affect on this age unless they have previous hx asthma and have received oral steroids)

Pregnancy:
Should be administered if bronchospasm but should be withheld if problem is minor
breastfeeding should stop

Question 4

What dosage/means of administration should be used for prednisone?

Answer 4

40mg PO for adult - see paediatric tables for child
Usually come as 20mg tablets
Parents should always be asked if children can swallow tablets - do not crush, very bitter - need to be swallowed quickly
If pt has already taken a lower dose, go ahead and administer another full dose

Question 5

What are the common adverse effects of prednisone?

Answer 5

Bitter taste
Fatigue
Sodium and water retention (may worsen hypertension and risk heart failure with prolongued dosage)
GI reflux