Prednisolone

Generic Name of Prednisolone: Prednisolone

Indications for Prednisolone

Prednisolone belongs to the category of gluco corticoids of medicines and is used in treating autoimmune diseases in dogs and cats. Autoimmune diseases are those which cannot be prevented or treated and occurs when the immune and inflammation systems, which are intended to protect the body against diseases, turn against the body causing severe damage or even death. Curiously enough, in many cases, this happens without any specific reason.Prednisolone is anti-inflammatory in nature and could be used to treat allergies, endotoxic shock caused by bacterial infections apart from auto immune conditions like bronchial and lung diseases, and brain and blood diseases. In addition, it is used as a supplement in oncology treatment, Addison's disease and adrenal gland disorder.

Precautions when using Prednisolone

Prednisolone should never be used in animals that are allergic to this drug, and in those with fungal infections. Pregnant animals should not be treated with Prednisolone as it might induce premature labor. Never terminate Prednisolone therapy suddenly; and the animal should be taken off the drug in phases, to avoid difficulties.Prednisolone might adversely react with other medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. It affects the whole body system of the animal, and hence should be administered only in crucial emergencies and life threatening situations.

Side Effects of Prednisolone

Some of the side effects include increased thirst and appetite, breathlessness, nausea, restlessness, stomach ulcers and loose motion. Prolonged use of this drug might lead to loss of hair coat, slackening of muscles, liver damage and behavioral changes.

Dosage for Prednisolone

Prednisolone is available in 1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg and 50 mg tablets apart from 3 mg/ml syrup, 1 mg/ml suspension and injectable forms. Doses might vary depending on the ailment. The recommended anti-inflammatory doses range from 0.2 to 0.6 mg/kg, administered twice a day, immunosuppressive doses range from 2 to 6 mg/kg, thrice daily.