Class: Adrenals
ATC Class: H02AB04
VA Class: HS051
CAS Number: 52438-85-4
Brands: Orapred, Pediapred, Prelone Syrup
Introduction
Synthetic glucocorticoid; minimal mineralocorticoid activity.
Uses for prednisoLONE (Systemic)
Treatment of a wide variety of diseases and conditions, principally for glucocorticoid effects as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant agent and for its effects on blood and lymphatic systems in the palliative treatment of various diseases.
Adrenocortical Insufficiency
Corticosteroids are administered in physiologic dosages to replace deficient endogenous hormones in patients with adrenocortical insufficiency.
Because production of both mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids is deficient in adrenocortical insufficiency, hydrocortisone or cortisone (in conjunction with liberal salt intake) usually is the corticosteroid of choice for replacement therapy.
Usually inadequate alone for adrenocortical insufficiency because of minimal mineralocorticoid activity.
If prednisolone is used for adrenocortical insufficiency, a mineralocorticoid (e.g., fludrocortisone) must also be administered, particularly in infants.
Adrenogenital Syndrome
Lifelong glucocorticoid treatment of adrenogenital syndrome (e.g., congenital adrenal hyperplasia).
In salt-losing forms, cortisone or hydrocortisone is preferred in conjunction with liberal salt intake; concomitant use of a mineralocorticoid may be necessary until the patient is at least 5–7 years of age.
For long-term therapy after early childhood, a glucocorticoid alone usually is sufficient.
In hypertensive forms, a “short-acting” glucocorticoid with minimal mineralocorticoid activity (e.g., methylprednisolone, prednisone) is preferred. Avoid long-acting glucocorticoids (e.g., dexamethasone) because of tendency toward overdosage and growth retardation.
Hypercalcemia
Treatment of hypercalcemia ass...
