What is Prednisolone?
Prednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid, a type of corticosteroid hormone, that is used to reduce inflammation and overactivity in the immune system. It is commonly prescribed to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune health conditions. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body, and prednisolone works by reducing this activity. It achieves this by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals that typically cause inflammation [1].
Prednisolone is available in various forms, including oral tablets and eye drops. The eye drops, or prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension, treat inflammation and similar eye conditions [2].
Uses of Prednisolone
One of the primary uses of prednisolone is in treating various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and gout [3]. It is also used to manage symptoms of severe allergies, including hay fever and allergic skin reactions [3].
Prednisolone effectively treats skin diseases such as psoriasis, severe eczema, and eye conditions like keratitis, uveitis, and optic neuritis [3]. It is also used to treat inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis, and to control multiple sclerosis flare-ups [3].
In addition to these uses, prednisolone is prescribed for conditions like lupus, polymyositis, sarcoidosis, and certain blood disorders, such as hemolytic anaemia and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura [3]. It also treats certain cancers, such as leukaemias and lymphomas [3].
Prednisolone can also be used to treat hormone problems, such as adrenal insufficiency, where the adrenal glands don't produce enough natural steroid hormones. In such cases, prednisolone helps replace the natural steroid hormones [3].
In the field of sports, prednisolone is used for the treatment of nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis [4]. It is also used as a glucocorticoid replacement therapy, with most patients needing 3-4 mg once daily [5].
Can I take Prednisolone at night?
While prednisolone can be taken at night in some cases, it is generally recommended to take it in the morning. Taking prednisolone in the morning mimics the body's natural cortisol production cycle, taking prednisolone too late in the evening may cause difficulty sleeping.
The timing of administration should be individualised based on the patient's specific condition and needs. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Side effects of Prednisolone
Prednisolone can cause a variety of side effects ranging from mild to severe and may occur immediately or after prolonged use.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of prednisolone include:
- headache,
- nausea,
- changes in mood,
- difficulty sleeping,
- thinning skin,
- slowed healing of cuts and bruises,
- acne,
- increased appetite,
- and changes in how fat is spread around the body [6].
Other common side effects include weight gain, digestive problems, restlessness, and increased sweating [3, 7].
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects can also occur, and if you experience any of these, you should seek immediate medical attention. These include symptoms such as:
- sore throat,
- fever,
- chills,
- cough,
- seizures,
- muscle weakness,
- vision problems,
- depression,
- loss of contact with reality,
- sudden weight gain,
- stomach swelling,
- difficulty breathing or swallowing,
- rash, hives, and itching [6].
Long-term Side Effects
Long-term use of prednisolone can lead to more severe complications. These include osteoporosis, high blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, increased risk of infection due to immunosuppression, and eye changes such as glaucoma or cataracts [7, 8].
Side Effects in Children
In children, prednisolone may slow growth and development. Therefore, a child's growth should be monitored carefully while taking this medication [6, 8].
Side Effects Related to Dosage
The risk of side effects increases with the dosage of prednisolone. Side effects were significantly related to an initial prednisolone dose of more than 30 mg and the cumulative prednisolone dose [9].
If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking prednisolone, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.