Prednisolone (By Mouth)

Prednisolone (pred-NISS-oh-lone)

Treats inflammation, arthritis, and many other medical problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.

Brand Name(s):

Orapred, Pediapred, Prelone, Cotolone
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have any fungal infections, such as candidiasis.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

• If your schedule is one dose every other day and you miss a dose, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the next day, use your dose then and skip a day before using another.
• If you use your medicine one or more times every day and you miss a dose, use your medicine as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next regular dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using barbiturates, such as pentobarbital (Nembutal®) or mephobarbital (Mebaral®).
• While you are using this medicine, do not receive any vaccines or immunizations, unless directed by your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have bleeding problems, hypertension (high blood pressure), hypothyroidism (low thyroid), kidney disease, liver disease, mental or emotional disorders, myasthenia gravis, osteoporosis, or stomach, intestine, or colon problems.
• Tell your doctor if you have Strongyloides (threadworm) infection, herpes simplex infection of the eye, or any other infections.
• You may get infections more easily while being treated with this medicine. Avoid crowded places or being near people who are sick. Call your doctor at once if you develop fever, sore throat, or other signs of infection.
• Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles. If you have been exposed, call your doctor right away.
• Your doctor may want to check your progress at regular visits to make sure the medicine is working properly and not causing unwanted effects.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. You may need to use smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely.
• Tell any doctor, dentist, or other health care provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Blurred vision
• Increased urination or thirst
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Severe stomach pain
• Unexplained fever, sore throat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Confusion, depression, or mood swings
• Easy bruising, small purple spots on your skin
• Fluid retention, weight gain, or swelling of arms, legs, hands, or feet
• Fullness or roundness of face
• Increased hair growth
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion
• Nervous, restlessness, or trouble sleeping
• Sweating
• Thinning skin, acne

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.