Prednisone

Question 1

Prednisone - Mechanism of action

Answer 1

Is a prodrug that is metabolised to prednisolone in the liver.
Corticosteroid with anti-infammatory and immuno-suppressant actions. It inhibits production of prostaglandins, resulting in reduction in inflammation and immune response.

Question 2

Prednisone - Contraindications

Answer 2

Known severe allergy.

Question 3

Prednisone - Cautions

Answer 3

Age less than 5 years, unless child has history of taken oral steriods for asthma.

Question 4

Prednisone - Dosage

Answer 4

40mg for adult.
See paediatric drugs tables for a child.
If patient is already taking prednisone:
a) administer additional full dose if patient is taking a dose lower than listed in CPG’s. Advise patient to stop taking predinsone and seek treatment review from a GP.
b) If patient is taking equal or higher than CPG, then do not administer additional. Advise patient to see GP to have treatment reviewed.

Question 5

Prednisone - Common side effects

Answer 5

Fatigue.
Sodium and water retention.
Gastrointestinal reflux.

Question 6

Prednisone - Usual onset of effect

Answer 6

30-60 minutes

Question 7

Prednisone - Usual duration of effect

Answer 7

24 hours

Question 8

Prednisone - Usual preparation

Answer 8

5 mg tablets
20 mg tablets.
Syrup containing 5mg/ml

Question 9

Prednisone - Indications

Answer 9

Bronchospasm associated with asthma or CPOD
Croup
Prominent rash associated with anaphylaxis, provided all systemic signs of anaphylaxis.
Minor allergy associated with rash.

Question 10

Prednisone - Repeats

Answer 10

None