| Mechanism | * Inhibits phospholipase A2 activity - arachidonic acid production * Arachidonic acid - precursor for prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis - anti-inflammatory effect * B and T lymphocyte response to antigens - immunosuppressive effect | |
| Typical Dose | 40mg (for asthma exacerbation) | |
| Indications | * Suppression of allergic inflammatory disorders * IBD * asthma * Rheumatoid disease * Immunosuppression (leukaemia, transplant) | |
| Contra-indications | Systemic infection, hypersensitivity, osteoporosis, glaucoma, admin of live vaccines Caution in recent MI and Pregnancy | |
| Side-effects | Common: bruising, hirsutism, moon-face, HTN, weight gain, impaired glucose tolerance Rare: neutrophilia (more here) | |
| Interactions | Phenytoin | Phenytoin]]: ↓ effect of prednisolone Rifampicin: ↓ effect of prednisolone |
| Elimination | | |
| Additional Notes | Should be withdrawn slowly after long-term treatment due to risk of acute adrenal crisis. | |