Prednisolone

Prednisolone is the active metabolite of prednisone.

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Prednisolone has an extremely bitter taste that makes it difficult to administer to children.

Uses

It is a corticosteroid drug with predominantly glucocorticoid and low mineralocorticoid activity, making it useful for the treatment of a wide range of inflammatory and auto-immune conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, cluster headaches and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. It can also be used as an immunosuppressive drug for organ transplants and in cases of adrenal insufficiency (Addison's). Prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension is an adrenocortical steroid product prepared as a sterile ophthalmic suspension, used to reduce swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions affecting the eye. Corticosteroids inhibit the inflammatory response to a variety of inciting agents and probably delay or slow healing. They inhibit the edema, fibrin deposition, capillary dilation, leukocyte migration, capillary proliferation, fibroblast proliferation, deposition of collagen, and scar formation associated with inflammation. There is no generally-accepted explanation for the mechanism of action of ocular corticosteroids. However, corticosteroids are thought to act by the induction of phospholipase A₂ inhibitory proteins, collectively called lipocortins. It is postulated that these proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting the release of their common precursor arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is released from membrane phospholipids by phospholipase A₂. Corticosteriods are capable of producing a rise in intraocular pressure.

Possible Side-Effects

Possible side-effects include fluid retention of the face (moon face, Cushing's syndrome), acne, constipation, and mood swings. A lengthy course of prednisolone can cause bloody or black tarry stools; filling or rounding out of the face; muscle cramps or pain; muscle weakness; nausea; pain in back, hips, ribs, arms, shoulders, or legs; reddish-purple lines on arms, face, legs, trunk or groin; thin and shiny skin; unusual bruising; urinating at night; rapid weight gain; and wounds that will not heal. Swelling of the pancreas has also been reported. Other effects include decreased or blurred vision, increased thirst, confusion, and nervousness. It also is reported to cause insomnia when large strengths, or large doses are taken.

Systemically: Posterior subcapsular cataracts & papilledema

Topical: PSC & glaucoma

Contraindicated with herpes

Banned Status in Athletics

As a glucocorticosteroid, prednisolone is banned under WADA anti-doping rules.