Prednisone falls under the category of synthetic glucocorticosteroids and serves as a dehydrated analog of hydrocortisone. This medication exhibits a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-allergic, immunosuppressive, and anti-inflammatory activities. When administered orally, Prednisone is efficiently absorbed by the body. Within a maximum of two hours, the drug's plasma concentration peaks. Prednisone undergoes metabolism primarily in the liver, with a portion also undergoing metabolic processes in the kidneys. Elimination from the body primarily occurs through urine excretion. While the drug can be detected in minimal quantities in breast milk, it can also cross the placental barrier.

Indications for Prednisone Medication

Prednisone is prescribed for a variety of medical conditions, including:

1. Rheumatic Disorders:
• Rheumatic fever
• Chorea
• Rheumatic carditis
2. Connective Tissue Pathologies:
• Dermatomyositis
• Periarteritis nodosa
• Scleroderma
• Lupus erythematosus
3. Inflammatory Joint Conditions:
• Chronic and acute inflammatory joint diseases
• Multiple sclerosis
4. Musculoskeletal Conditions:
• Epicondylitis
• Synovitis
• Bursitis
• Still's syndrome
• Osteoarthritis (including post-traumatic)
• Humeroscapular periarthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Juvenile arthritis
• Gouty arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
5. Respiratory Disorders:
• Status asthmaticus
• Bronchial asthma
• Interstitial lung pathologies (grade 2-3 sarcoidosis, fibrosis, acute alveolitis)
• Lung cancer
6. Other Conditions:
• Aspiration (in combination with specific treatment)
• Leffler's eosinophilic pneumonia
• Berylliosis
• Tuberculosis (in combination with specific treatment)
• Hyperplasia
• Secondary and primary adrenal insufficiency (including post-adrenal removal conditions)
• Autoimmune pathologies
• Hypoglycemic conditions
• Hepatitis
• Acute and chronic allergic diseases
• Inflammatory lesions of the digestive system
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Hematopoietic system disorders
• Skin pathologies of autoimmune and other origins, including exfoliative, herpetiform bullous dermatitis, pemphigus, Lyell's syndrome, psoriasis, and eczema
• Hypercalcemia in oncological pathologies
• Eye diseases
• Brain edema in the post-traumatic, post-radiation, and post-surgery period
• Prevention and treatment of nausea or vomiting associated with cytostatic therapy
• Prevention of graft rejection

Prednisone is a versatile medication used in the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions, and its usage should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the specific diagnosis and patient needs.

Dosage Instructions

Prednisone should be taken orally without chewing. The recommended dosing regimen is as follows:

• Replacement Therapy: Typically, an initial dose of 20-30 mg is prescribed for replacement therapy.
• Maintenance Doses: Maintenance doses generally range from 5-10 mg.
• Initial Dose Range: Depending on the patient's condition, the initial dosage can vary from 15 to 100 mg.
• Pediatric Use: For children, Prednisone is prescribed at a rate of 1-2 mg/kg. This amount is divided into four to six doses.
• Maintenance Dose for Children: The daily maintenance dose for children usually falls within the range of 300-600 mcg/kg.

Adverse Reactions

Reviews of Prednisone may vary, including negative ones, often attributed to the emergence of adverse reactions. Therefore, it is essential to carefully read the instructions and take note of contraindications before using the medication.

Possible adverse reactions associated with Prednisone use include:

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals with hypersensitivity to the components of the medication may experience allergic reactions.
• Common Adverse Reactions: Common adverse reactions shared by both adults and children can include obesity, diabetes, dyspepsia, digestive disorders, as well as abnormalities in the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
• Hormonal Pathologies: Prednisone may lead to hormonal imbalances, resulting in increased hair growth, sexual dysfunction, and menstrual cycle irregularities.
• Impaired Bone Growth: Particularly in children, Prednisone usage can disrupt normal bone growth, leading to stunted growth.
• Tissue Regeneration: The medication may interfere with tissue regeneration processes and prolong wound healing.

It is crucial to use Prednisone under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and any concerns or adverse reactions should be promptly reported to a healthcare provider.

Additional Information

According to medical professionals, Prednisone is considered quite effective when used appropriately. The medication exerts several beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, decongestant, and analgesic properties. Additionally, it aids in alleviating to some extent, intoxication, and can enhance the effectiveness of other drugs used in the treatment of spinal conditions.

When discontinuing Prednisone, it is essential to do so gradually to prevent the development of withdrawal symptoms. Abrupt cessation can lead to neurological disturbances and a decline in concentration. Prolonged use of this medication may potentially contribute to vision abnormalities, taste bud alterations, and exacerbation of depressive states.

It is essential to use Prednisone under the guidance of a healthcare provider, following their prescribed regimen and recommendations for a safe and effective treatment outcome.