Known brand names include Rayos and Deltasone.
A corticosteroid pill that calms inflammation and the immune system. It is used for flares of asthma, arthritis, lupus, allergies, skin and eye disease, and many other conditions, usually at the lowest dose for the shortest time.
Second-line. The label names hydrocortisone or cortisone as first choice; prednisone may be used with a mineralocorticoid.
Sources: [1]
Labeled use. During exacerbations or as maintenance in selected cases.
Sources: [1]
Add-on therapy. Short-term add-on during flares; selected cases need low-dose maintenance.
Sources: [1]
The usual oral steroid for short bursts (asthma flares, allergic reactions) and for many chronic inflammatory diseases. It is inexpensive and intermediate acting, which suits alternate-day regimens. For adrenal insufficiency, hydrocortisone is preferred for its mineralocorticoid activity.
Sources: [1]
A synthetic glucocorticoid with strong anti-inflammatory action across many organ systems. It has wide metabolic effects and dampens the body's immune responses.
Sources: [1]
The label does not describe a narrow therapeutic index or direct dosing by measured blood levels of the drug.
Sources: [1]
Doses come from the FDA label. Study tool, not for clinical decisions.
Sources: [1]
The label gives no renal dose adjustment. Use with caution in renal insufficiency because of sodium retention, edema, and potassium loss.
Sources: [1]
The label gives no hepatic dose adjustment. Effects are stronger in cirrhosis because steroid metabolism is slower.
Sources: [1]
Older pregnancy category C. Corticosteroids caused cleft palate in animal studies, and there are no adequate human studies. Use only if benefit justifies risk, and watch newborns of mothers on substantial doses for hypoadrenalism.
Sources: [1]
Corticosteroids appear in breast milk and could suppress the infant's growth or adrenal function. Decide between nursing and the drug.
Sources: [1]
Response mirrors adults. Watch growth velocity, blood pressure, weight, height, and eye pressure, and use the lowest effective dose because even low doses can slow growth.
Sources: [1]