Prednisolone

Dosage form: tablets
Drug class:Glucocorticoids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 21, 2022.

Prednisolone Description

Glucocorticoids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic, which are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Prednisolone is a white crystalline powder, very slightly soluble in water. It is designated chemically as pregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione,11,17,21-trihydroxy-,(11ß)-. The structural formula is represented below:

C21H28O5        M.W. 360.45

Prednisolone Tablets USP 5 mg contain the following inactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, D&C Yellow No.10, docusate sodium, FD&C Yellow No. 6, magnesium stearate and sodium benzoate.

Prednisolone - Clinical Pharmacology

Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. Prednisolone is primarily used for its potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems.

Glucocorticoids cause profound and varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body's immune responses to diverse stimuli.