Prednisone

Prednisone is a synthetic glucocorticoid prodrug converted mainly in the liver to prednisolone. It reduces inflammation and suppresses immune activity by altering gene expression.

Prednisolone: Prednisolone is an active synthetic glucocorticoid that reduces inflammation and suppresses immune responses. The liver converts prednisone into this active drug, which binds glucocorticoid receptors.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammatory damage to joints and other tissues. Prednisone can rapidly control inflammation while longer-term treatments take effect.
Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is bone loss and fracture risk caused or worsened by prolonged glucocorticoid treatment. Long-term prednisone can impair bone formation and increase fracture risk.
Methylprednisolone: Methylprednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid used to treat inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions. It is an active drug, unlike prednisone’s prodrug form, and has somewhat different potency.
Glucocorticoid: A glucocorticoid is a steroid hormone or medication that regulates metabolism and suppresses inflammation and immune activity. Prednisone belongs to this drug class and shares its characteristic effects.
Glucocorticoid receptor: The glucocorticoid receptor is an intracellular protein that binds glucocorticoids and regulates gene expression. Prednisolone’s anti-inflammatory effects begin when it activates this receptor.
Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease marked by variable airway inflammation and narrowing. Short courses of systemic prednisone can treat severe exacerbations.
Adrenal insufficiency: Adrenal insufficiency is inadequate production of adrenal hormones, including cortisol, for the body’s needs. After prolonged treatment, abrupt prednisone withdrawal can leave cortisol production temporarily inadequate.
Dexamethasone: Dexamethasone is a long-acting synthetic glucocorticoid with strong anti-inflammatory effects and minimal mineralocorticoid activity. It lasts longer and has less mineralocorticoid activity than prednisone.
Prodrug: A prodrug is a substance converted within the body into a pharmacologically active drug. Prednisone’s conversion to prednisolone is a classic example of prodrug activation.

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