Prednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid, which works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It acts on the glucocorticoid receptor, affecting various cellular processes, including:
Reducing inflammation by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Suppressing the immune response by decreasing the activity and proliferation of immune cells like T-lymphocytes and macrophages.
Modulating the metabolic processes, including increasing gluconeogenesis and decreasing protein synthesis.
Indications:
Prednisolone is used to treat a variety of conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, including:
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
- Allergic reactions (e.g., severe asthma, allergic rhinitis)
- Inflammatory conditions (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, dermatitis)
- Certain cancers (e.g., lymphoma, leukemia)
- Preventing organ rejection post-transplantation
- Interactions:
Drug Interactions:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin): Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers.
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Altered effects of anticoagulants, requiring close monitoring of blood clotting parameters.
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): Increased risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
- Vaccines: Reduced efficacy of vaccines and increased risk of infections with live vaccines.
- Antidiabetic drugs: Decreased efficacy of antidiabetic drugs, potentially leading to hyperglycemia.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): Increased levels and effects of prednisolone.
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin): Decreased levels and effects of prednisolone.
Other Interactions:
- Alcohol: May increase the risk of gastrointestinal issues and ulcers.
- Infections: Prednisolone can mask the symptoms of infections, making them harder to detect and treat.
Monitoring and dose adjustments are often necessary when prednisolone is used concurrently with other medications. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or stopping any medications.
Read also:
- ACCUTANE (Isotretinoin) | Drug Digest
- Metformin Tablets | Drug Digest
- DAYVIGO (Lemborexant) for Insomnia
Resource Person: Muhammad Waseem Akram