Prednisone/Prednisolone

Question 1

Preparation

Answer 1

5mg or 20mg tablets

5mg/ml syrup

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

“Bloody Mary Coughed up Potatoes”

Bronchospasms secondary to COPD and Asthma, Minor allergic reaction with skin involvement, Croup and Prominent rash associated with anaphylaxis providing all systemic symptoms have resolved.

Question 3

Contraindications

Answer 3

Severe allergy

Question 4

Cautions

Answer 4

Pt aged less than five years.

This is because steroids don’t tend to alter the course of asthma exacerbation. However if the patient has a clear history of steroid use for asthma, do administer medication.

Question 5

Action

Answer 5

Prednisone is a prodrug; a biologically inactive compound that is metabolised by the liver to produce prednisolone.

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators hence reduces the immune and inflammatory response.

Question 6

Route

Answer 6

PO

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adults 40mg

Question 8

Side effects

Answer 8

“Fat Simon Gulps”

Fatigue
Sodium and water retention
Gastrointestinal reflux