Prednisolone 20mg

Prednisolone 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Prednisolone 20mg is a corticosteroid used to treat conditions where inflammation or an overactive immune response causes symptoms.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Severe allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other joint or muscle inflammation
• Skin conditions like severe eczema or psoriasis
• Autoimmune diseases such as lupus
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Certain blood disorders and cancers as part of treatment
• Reducing swelling and inflammation after organ transplant

HOW IT WORKS

• It mimics the natural hormone cortisol produced by the body
• It reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune system
• It decreases swelling, redness and allergic response

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller for simple headaches or minor pain
• It is not used to treat infections directly, though it may be given alongside antibiotics/antivirals in specific cases
• It should not be used for routine cold, cough or fever
• It is not a substitute for insulin in diabetes

This medicine works best when taken exactly as directed and should not be stopped suddenly without medical advice.

How to Use Prednisolone 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning with food
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not chew or crush unless advised
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, especially after long-term use, as it can cause serious withdrawal effects
• Your doctor may gradually reduce the dose before stopping
• Take at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Follow the full course as advised, even if you feel better

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in the original container until ready to use

Prednisolone 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Increased appetite and weight gain
• Indigestion or stomach upset
• Difficulty sleeping
• Mood changes or restlessness
• Increased sweating

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• High blood sugar levels
• Increased blood pressure
• Muscle weakness
• Acne or thinning skin
• Fluid retention causing swelling in ankles or face

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of infection such as fever, sore throat that does not go away
• Severe stomach pain or black stools (possible stomach bleeding)
• Vision changes or eye pain
• Severe mood changes, confusion or depression
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing
• Sudden weakness or vision loss

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Prednisolone 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India. Do not use it without medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to prednisolone or other corticosteroids
• Have a systemic fungal infection
• Are taking live vaccines during treatment (unless approved by your doctor)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease
• Have a history of stomach ulcers
• Have glaucoma or cataracts
• Have osteoporosis or bone problems
• Have any current infection, including tuberculosis
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Have mental health conditions like depression

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• NSAIDs (pain relievers like ibuprofen) — increased risk of stomach problems
• Diabetes medicines — may need dose adjustment
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Diuretics (water pills)
• Live vaccines
• Other medicines that affect the immune system

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may increase stomach irritation risk.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

Weight gain and increased appetite are common with long-term use; discuss diet management with your doctor.

Can I stop taking it once I feel better?

• No, stopping suddenly can be dangerous; your doctor will guide you on tapering the dose safely.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.