Prednisone, Prednisolone, Methylprednisolone
(PRED-ni-sone, pred-NIS-oh-lone, meth-il-pred-NIS-oh-lone)
Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us
What are prednisone, prednisolone and methylprednisolone?
Prednisone, prednisolone and methylprednisolone (Prelone", Pediapred", Deltasone", Orapred", Medrol") are oral steroids used to reduce swelling and inflammation of the bronchi, which are the airways of the lungs. This medication is also used to treat skin disorders, arthritis, allergic reactions, and to prevent transplant rejection. Prednisone and prednisolone may be taken in a tablet or liquid form. Methylprednisolone is available as a tablet.
Special instructions
Dosage varies with each child and can only be prescribed by your child's doctor
It is very important that your child takes this medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor and that doses are not missed
Talk with your child's doctor about side effects and proper dosing schedule if your child will be taking steroids for more than 1-2 weeks
Never give your child steroids without first talking to your child's doctor
Never stop giving your child steroids without asking your child's doctor
Take this medication with food to decrease stomach upset
If your child is going to have surgery or other stressful situations while on steroids, talk to your child's doctor
Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package
Keep this medication out of the reach of children
If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately
If a dose is missed
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
Side effects
Contact your child's doctor if symptoms persist or become bothersome:
Increased hunger
Moodiness/mood swings
Increased blood sugar
Infection: sore throat, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Decreased bone growth
Increased weight gain
Stomach ulcers
Warning signs
Call your child's doctor immediately if your child has any of the following:
Call your child's doctor if any of the following are severe or continue: sore throat, fever, stomach pain, skin rash, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Other signs to watch for are swelling of feet, tiredness, appetite changes, weight gain, puffy face, mood changes, increased thirst, blurred vision, menstrual problems, or slow healing of sores.
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Patient Education Program V 5123 12/98
Rev. 10/05, 8/07
