Prednisolone
In brief
- Prednisolone tablets at Pharmacy London24 are listed as 5mg (90 to 360 per pack), 10mg (60 to 360), 20mg and 40mg (30 to 360), and UK delivery takes 9–21 days.
- This corticosteroid calms inflammation and dampens an overactive immune system, which is why doctors use it for asthma and COPD flare-ups, lupus, vasculitis and some bowel and blood disorders.
- Of these, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg are UK-licensed tablet strengths while 40mg is not; it is normally taken as a single morning dose with food, which mirrors the natural cortisol rhythm.
- Long courses make the adrenal glands less active, so the dose has to be reduced step by step and never stopped abruptly; carry a steroid card and ask what to do if you are sick or develop an infection.
- Prolonged use can raise blood pressure, thin the skin, cloud the lens and unsettle mood; live vaccines should be avoided and anti-inflammatory painkillers taken only on advice. It is a UK POM.
Basic prednisolone information
- INN (international nonproprietary name): Prednisolone
- Brand names available in the United Kingdom: Deltacortril, Pevanti; generic prednisolone
- ATC code: H02AB06
- Forms and dosages: Tablets 1 mg, 5 mg and 25 mg; gastro-resistant tablets 2.5 mg and 5 mg; soluble tablets 5 mg
- Manufacturers in the United Kingdom: Various generic manufacturers
- Registration status in the United Kingdom: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
- OTC / Rx classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
Everyday use and best practices
Morning vs evening dosing
Prednisolone is usually taken as a single dose in the morning. This mimics the body's natural cortisol rhythm and helps to minimise side effects such as insomnia. Follow the timing given by your prescriber, who may split the dose in some conditions.Taking with or without meals
It’s important to take prednisolone with or after food to reduce stomach irritation. Practical tips include:- Taking the medication during or right after meals.
- Making it part of your daily routine, such as with breakfast.
- Staying hydrated, as this can also help mitigate digestive discomfort.
Safety priorities
Who should avoid it
Certain people face heightened risks with prednisolone. These include individuals with untreated severe infections, diabetes, peptic ulcers, osteoporosis, severe mood disorders or other specific medical conditions, who may require careful monitoring or alternative treatments. Prednisolone must not be used by people who are hypersensitive to it, and live vaccines should be avoided during high-dose treatment. It’s strongly advised for patients to discuss their medical history with healthcare professionals before starting prednisolone.Activities to limit
Prednisolone can occasionally cause dizziness, mood changes or visual disturbances, which may make some activities hazardous. It's advisable to:- Evaluate fitness for driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Reassess responsibilities at work, especially in roles demanding high focus.
Dosage and adjustments
General regimen
The starting dose of prednisolone varies with the condition treated. Adults typically begin with 40–50 mg daily for acute cases (for example an asthma exacerbation), with the dose reduced or stopped according to the prescriber's plan. For chronic conditions, lower doses may suffice and are titrated down as health improves. Follow your prescriber's instructions and do not stop long-term treatment suddenly.Special cases
Elderly patients or those with other conditions need special attention. For children the dose is based on weight (for example 1–2 mg/kg in some conditions) and is set by the prescriber, while older adults should generally start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity to steroids. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment may also require dose adjustments, necessitating careful monitoring to avoid adverse effects or drug accumulation in the system.What’s inside and how it works
Ingredients overview
The active ingredient in prednisolone is prednisolone itself. This compound belongs to the corticosteroid family, which mimics the natural hormones produced by the adrenal glands. Prednisolone is used primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in the treatment of various conditions.
Oral formulations of prednisolone include plain, soluble and gastro-resistant tablets, which allow precise dosing for both adults and children; 5 mg tablets are very commonly prescribed.
Mechanism basics explained simply
Prednisolone works by inhibiting inflammation in the body. When inflammation occurs, the immune system releases various chemicals to target the perceived threat. Prednisolone helps suppress this response, reducing symptoms such as swelling and pain.
Conditions like asthma and arthritis are commonly treated with prednisolone due to its effectiveness in controlling flare-ups. For asthma, the medication helps open up airways, making breathing easier, while in arthritis, it reduces joint swelling and discomfort.
Main indications
Approved uses
In the UK, prednisolone is licensed for many conditions. Common uses include:
- Asthma exacerbations
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Severe allergic reactions
- Certain cancers
Each condition has its own dosing protocol, so follow medical advice closely.
Off-label uses in UK clinics
Additionally, prednisolone may be prescribed off-label for several conditions. Common off-label uses include:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations
- Croup in children
- Skin disorders like eczema
Off-label use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Interaction warnings
Food interactions (alcohol, tea/coffee)
Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal upset. Caffeine can also exacerbate side effects like insomnia or anxiety. Taking prednisolone at consistent times is important.
Drug conflicts
Prednisolone's interactions with other medicines are important to monitor. They include:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) – May increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants – The effect on clotting may change.
- Medicines that lower potassium, such as diuretics – May increase the risk of low potassium levels.
Patients are encouraged to report any adverse reactions through the Yellow Card scheme and maintain open communication with their healthcare provider about all medications being taken.
Alternative choices
NHS prescribing alternatives
Alternatives to prednisolone include other corticosteroids, each with advantages and disadvantages:
- Dexamethasone
- Pros: Stronger anti-inflammatory effects, often used in COVID-19 treatment
- Cons: Higher risk of complications with long-term use
- Budesonide
- Pros: Lower systemic side effects; suitable for mild asthma
- Cons: Not as effective in severe cases compared to prednisolone
- Methylprednisolone
- Pros: Less sodium retention, beneficial for patients with hypertension
- Cons: Similar side effects, thus may not be a complete replacement
The prescriber chooses the treatment according to individual needs, balancing efficacy and potential side effects.
Regulation snapshot
Prednisolone is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) regulates its use and keeps its safety under review, including long-term side effects and the management of withdrawal symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Is alcohol safe whilst taking prednisolone?
Alcohol can exacerbate side effects like stomach irritation and mood swings, so moderation or abstaining is suggested. For advice, see the NHS website or call NHS 111.
Other frequent questions include:
- Can I take prednisolone on an empty stomach?
Many patients tolerate it better with food to reduce gastric irritation.
- Are there interactions with over-the-counter medications?
Always consult with healthcare professionals before pairing other drugs with prednisolone to mitigate risks.
Guidelines for proper use
Follow your prescribed dosing schedule consistently to get the full effect of prednisolone while minimising adverse reactions.
Key points include:
- Always consult with healthcare providers before making any changes to dosage or discontinuation.
- Check with pharmacists regarding potential drug interactions, particularly with other medications.
- Monitor for side effects continuously and report any unusual symptoms promptly.
Pharmacists can give tailored advice on issues like tapering doses, withdrawal symptoms, and diet and alcohol intake during treatment. Carry a steroid treatment card if you are on long-term treatment.
Delivery information
| City | Region | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| London | Greater London | 9–21 days |
| Birmingham | West Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Manchester | Greater Manchester | 9–21 days |
| Glasgow | Scotland | 9–21 days |
| Leeds | West Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Sheffield | South Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Bristol | South West England | 9–21 days |
| Newcastle upon Tyne | Tyne and Wear | 9–21 days |
| Cardiff | Wales | 9–21 days |
| Nottingham | East Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Southampton | South East England | 9–21 days |
| Leicester | East Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Edinburgh | Scotland | 9–21 days |
| Aberdeen | Scotland | 9–21 days |
