Prednisolone

Short-to-intermediate-acting glucocorticoid for anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapy; preferred oral corticosteroid in cats. Short-to-intermediate-acting glucocorticoid (prednisolone). Mechanism: glucocorticoid receptor agonist → transcriptional modulation → inhibits phospholipase A2 (via annexin-1 induction) → reduces arachidonic acid cascade (prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxanes, PAF) → anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive. 4× potency of cortisol; mild mineralocorticoid activity. Active form (unlike prednisone prodrug) — preferred in cats. Key information Active form of prednisone — preferred in cats. Taper on discontinuation (>2 weeks). Monitor for PU/PD, GI ulceration, diabetes. Immunosuppressive doses require infection monitoring.

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Tablets may be crushed and mixed into food. Injectable (sodium succinate): dilute in compatible IV fluid; Administer IV slowly; rapid infusion may cause adverse reactions. or IM. Administer in the morning to mimic cortisol circadian rhythm. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.

PU/PD/PP (polyphagia, polyuria, polydipsia). Muscle wasting, weight redistribution. Immunosuppression: increased susceptibility to infections. GI: ulceration, vomiting. HPA axis suppression. Behavioral: euphoria, anxiety, aggression. Diabetes mellitus induction (cats — prednisolone more diabetogenic than prednisolone). Laminitis (horses). Iatrogenic Cushing's with chronic use. Delayed wound healing.

For animals Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Avoid in pregnant animals. Laminitis risk in horses. Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Avoid live vaccines. Adrenal suppression with >2 weeks of therapy — taper gradually. Cats: preferred over prednisone (better hepatic conversion to active form). For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Corticosteroid — avoid prolonged skin contact. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Wear gloves when handling.

Contact your veterinarian. Signs of overdose include excessive thirst and urination, panting, GI upset, and immunosuppression. Contact your vet before continuing treatment.