Prednisone: Comprehensive Guide

Characteristic	Details
Active Ingredient	Prednisone
Common Dosage	5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg
Formulation	Tablet
Therapeutic Class	Corticosteroid
Administration Route	Oral
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Pharmacokinetics

Prednisone exhibits unique pharmacokinetic properties. It is a prodrug that converts into prednisolone in the liver. This transformation is crucial for its activity. Prednisolone, the active form, circulates in the bloodstream. It demonstrates a plasma half-life of approximately 3 to 4 hours. Absorption of prednisone occurs rapidly upon oral administration.

Binding to plasma proteins is extensive, reaching nearly 90%. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver. It forms both inactive and active metabolites. Renal excretion is the primary route of elimination. Both unchanged drug and metabolites appear in the urine. Dosing adjustments may be necessary for hepatic impairment due to altered metabolism.

Mechanism of action

The mechanism of action for prednisone is distinct. It acts as an immunosuppressant. Prednisone influences gene expression. It binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm. This interaction translocates to the nucleus. There, it modulates transcription of anti-inflammatory genes.

Prednisone inhibits prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. It stabilizes lysosomal membranes. This reduces capillary permeability. Inflammation diminishes as a result. Prednisone impacts numerous cell types, including lymphocytes and macrophages.

Indications

Prednisone 20mg serves diverse indications. It treats various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. These include rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Allergic reactions and asthma respond well to prednisone therapy. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations benefit from its use.

Certain cancers utilize prednisone in treatment regimens. Hematological malignancies, such as lymphoma, incorporate it. Organ transplant recipients rely on prednisone to prevent rejection. It manages adrenal insufficiency when physiological doses are inadequate.

Prednisone Interactions

Drug interactions with prednisone warrant attention. Concurrent use of NSAIDs increases gastrointestinal risks. Antifungal agents, like ketoconazole, elevate plasma prednisone levels. This results from enzyme inhibition. Macrolide antibiotics may exert similar effects.

Barbiturates and rifampin decrease prednisone efficacy. They induce hepatic enzymes. This enhances prednisone metabolism. Anticoagulant response varies with prednisone. Monitoring of clotting parameters is essential during co-administration.

Side Effects

Prednisone’s side effects span a wide spectrum. Short-term use can cause hyperglycemia and mood alterations. Insomnia and increased appetite may occur. Long-term therapy presents more serious risks. Osteoporosis and peptic ulcers develop over time.

Prolonged use may induce Cushing’s syndrome. Patients experience characteristic physical changes. Immune suppression increases infection susceptibility. Monitoring and preventive measures can mitigate these effects.

Prednisone for sale online

Availability of prednisone for sale online provides convenience. Buyers should seek reputable sources. Ensure authenticity and proper dosage formulations. Prescription verification safeguards against counterfeit products.

Consumers may encounter varying price ranges. Factors influencing cost include brand and generics. Discounts and bulk purchasing offer savings. Prioritize reliability over cost when selecting online vendors.

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