Prednisolone
is a synthetic adrenal corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are natural substances
produced by the adrenal glands located adjacent to the kidneys. Corticosteroids
have potent anti-inflammatory properties, and are used in a wide variety of
inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain
skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of the nose and eyes.
There are numerous preparations of corticosteroids including oral tablets,
capsules, liquids, topical creams and gels, inhalers and eye drops, and
injectable and intravenous solutions.
This medicine is also used in the treatment of blood cell cancers (leukemias),
and lymph gland cancers (lymphomas).
SIDE EFFECTS: Prednisolone side effects depend on the dose, the
duration and the frequency of administration. Short courses of the drug
are usually well tolerated with few and mild side effects. Long term,
high doses of the medication will usually produce predictable, and
potentially serious side effects. Whenever possible, the lowest
effective doses should be used for the shortest possible length of time
to minimize side effects. Alternate day dosing can also help reduce side
effects. |
