Prednisone
Pronunciation: (PREH-dni-sone).
- Generic name
- Prednisone
- Brand names
- Sone, Winpred, Panafcort, Predone, Predmet, Apo-Prednisone
- Drug class
- Corticosteroid (Glucocorticoid)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Prednisone is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Prednisone works
Prednisone is a synthetic glucocorticoid prodrug that is converted in the liver to its active form, prednisolone. It binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene expression to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. This leads to decreased migration of leukocytes, reduced capillary permeability, and overall suppression of the immune response. (1)
What Prednisone is used for
Inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease)
Inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease)
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis)
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, multiple sclerosis)
Allergic reactions (e.g., severe allergies, skin rashes)
Allergic reactions (e.g., severe allergies, skin rashes)
Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma)
Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma)
Organ transplant rejection prevention
Organ transplant rejection prevention
Before taking Prednisone
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Hypersensitivity to prednisone or other corticosteroids, systemic fungal infections. (Contraindication)
Tell your clinician about
How to take Prednisone
- General Instructions: Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease your dose without medical advice.. Adult Dosing: Typical adult doses range from 5 mg to 60 mg per day, depending on the condition being treated. Dosing may be adjusted based on response and clinical need.. Pediatric Dosing: Children’s doses are based on body weight and the specific condition. Always follow pediatric specialist guidance.. Administration: Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Swallow tablets whole with water. If using the liquid, measure carefully with a dosing syringe or cup.. When To Stop: Do not stop prednisone suddenly unless directed by your doctor. Tapering is usually required to prevent withdrawal symptoms.. Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up. Contact your doctor if you miss several doses.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical help or call your local poison control center. Symptoms may include severe confusion, muscle weakness, seizures, or fainting.
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Increased appetite
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Weight gain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Fluid retention
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Insomnia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Mood changes
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
High blood pressure
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Osteoporosis
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Increased risk of infection
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
Long-term use can increase the risk of infections — serious
Symptoms: Long-term use can increase the risk of infections. May cause high blood sugar or worsen diabetes. Can lead to bone thinning (osteoporosis) with prolonged use. May cause mood or behavior changes. Do not stop suddenly—risk of adrenal insufficiency.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated.
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to prednisone or other corticosteroids, systemic fungal infections. Precautions: Use with caution in patients with diabetes, hypertension, peptic ulcer disease, osteoporosis, psychiatric disorders, or those at risk for infections. Long-term therapy requires monitoring for adrenal suppression, bone loss, and metabolic changes.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated.
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Prednisone can interact with many medicines, including blood thinners (warfarin), diabetes medications, NSAIDs, certain vaccines, antifungals, and anticonvulsants. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements you are taking. Some interactions may require dose adjustments or close monitoring. | (2) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Corticosteroids are used in pregnancy only after the prescriber weighs the possible benefits against potential hazards to the mother and baby; infants born to mothers on substantial doses are observed for signs of adrenal suppression.
Breastfeeding
Prednisone appears in breast milk in small amounts; the label points to specialist lactation references, and the decision is made with the care team based on dose and infant age.
Children
Frequency: Once daily or divided doses. Weight Based: 0.1 to 2 mg/kg/day depending on the condition, not to exceed adult doses.. Max Daily Dose: 60 mg. Max Single Dose: 60 mg. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children under 1 year.
Organ_impairment
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed.
Kidney_impairment
The label directs caution in renal insufficiency; there is no fixed renal dose adjustment — the prescriber individualizes dosing.
Liver_impairment
No specific hepatic dose adjustment is given in the label; dosing is individualized by the prescriber.
Monitoring
Storage
Requires a primary-source research pass before this section can be completed.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Inflammatory conditions (e.g., arthritis, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease)
Dose summary: Initial dosing typically ranges from 5 mg to 60 mg per day depending on the condition being treated.
Renal context: No fixed renal adjustment in the label; caution directed in renal insufficiency — individualized prescriber dosing. Taper after prolonged therapy is essential (adrenal suppression). (1) (2)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for Wyeth Prednisone to start working?
Prednisone usually begins to reduce inflammation and symptoms within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the condition being treated.
Can I stop taking prednisone suddenly if I feel better?
No. Stopping prednisone suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for tapering the dose.
What foods should I avoid while taking prednisone?
Limit salt and processed foods to reduce swelling and blood pressure. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Is it safe to take vaccines while on prednisone?
Avoid live vaccines while taking prednisone, as your immune response may be weakened. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but consult your doctor first.
Can prednisone affect my mood or mental health?
Yes, prednisone can cause mood swings, anxiety, irritability, or even depression in some people. Report any severe changes to your doctor.
What should I do if I develop signs of infection while on prednisone?
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop fever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection, as prednisone can mask symptoms and increase infection risk.
Is Wyeth Prednisone safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Prednisone should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
What happens if I take too much Wyeth Prednisone?
Taking too much Wyeth Prednisone can lead to symptoms such as fluid retention, high blood pressure, and mood disturbances. While a single large dose may not be immediately life-threatening, chronic overdose can have serious health consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately or contact a poison control center for guidance.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Wyeth Prednisone?
It is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Wyeth Prednisone. Both alcohol and corticosteroids can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal issues like ulcers. Additionally, alcohol can exacerbate some side effects of prednisone, such as mood changes and sleep disturbances, and may impair the immune system, which prednisone also affects.
Is Wyeth Prednisone safe during pregnancy?
Wyeth Prednisone's safety during pregnancy falls under a specific category, and its use should be carefully considered. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can assess the potential risks and benefits, and determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your individual situation, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.
What is the mechanism of action of Prednisone?
Prednisone is a synthetic glucocorticoid prodrug that is converted in the liver to its active form, prednisolone. It binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene expression to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. This leads to decreased migration of leukocytes, reduced capillary permeability, and overall suppression of the immune response. (1)
What is the generic name of Prednisone?
The generic name is Prednisone. It is sold under brand names including Sone, Winpred, Panafcort, Predone, Predmet, Apo-Prednisone.
What class of drug is Prednisone?
Prednisone is classed as: Corticosteroid (Glucocorticoid).
References
- Wyeth Prednisone — prescribing informationU.S. National Library of Medicine DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-03 · source 1
- PREDNISONE tablets USP — prescribing information (Granulation Technology), revised 2025-08US FDA prescribing information via DailyMed · United States · dated 2025-08 · accessed 2026-08-08 · source 2
- PREDNISONE TABLET [PAR HEALTH USA, LLC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Prednisone — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- PredniSONE — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA080352)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- Prednisone — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 8640)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Prednisone names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Prednisone D/P5 mg, 10 mg · direct_rx
- PredniSONE Intensol5 mg/mL · hikma pharmaceuticals usa inc.
Canada
- JAA PREDNISONE
- WINPRED