Prednisolone

Generic

Description

Corticosteroid

Indications

Induction of remission in CD and UC in adults and children.

Contraindications

Congestive heart failure; diabetes; diverticulitis; epilepsy; glaucoma; hypertension; hypothyroidism; infection; myasthenia gravis; herpes simplex eye infection; osteoporosis; peptic ulcer; psychiatric reactions; recent intestinal anastomoses; recent myocardial infarction; severe affective disorders (particularly if history of steroid-induced psychosis); thromboembolic disorders. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding if benefit outweighs risk. Caution in renal or hepatic impairment. Specific contraindications to rectal use: abdominal or local infection; bowel perforation; extensive fistulas; intestinal obstruction; recent intestinal anastomes | Potential side effects: Anxiety; changes in mood and behaviour; cataracts; cognitive impairment; Cushing’s syndrome; electrolyte imbalance; fatigue; fluid retention; gastrointestinal discomfort; headache; impaired healing; hirsutism; hypertension; increased risk of infection; menstrual cycle irregularities; nausea; osteoporosis; peptic ulcer; psychotic disorder; skin reactions; sleep disorders; weight increase.

Preparations Available

Oral tablet, rectal foam, suppository, enema

Quantity

Dose: Initial 20–40mg (orally) daily until remission, then reducing daily. 20mg metered application (rectal foam) for distal UC once or twice daily for 2–4 weeks. 5mg suppository twice daily for rectal complications of CD. 20mg enema daily for 2–4 weeks for rectal and rectosigmoital UC or Crohn’s disease. In children, refer to the BNFC.

Sizes Available

1mg tablets(28), £0.76; 2.5mg (28), £3.91; 10mg tabs (28), £9.66; 20mg (28), £19.45; 25mg (56), £42.25; 30mg (28), £29.12; 20mg rectal foam (14), £204.95; 5mg suppositories (10), £249.80; 200mg/100ml enema solution (7), £14.95

Price

More on: Corticosteroids