CORTILONE 2.5

# Prednisolone 2.5 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Prednisolone 2.5 mg is a **corticosteroid medicine** used to reduce inflammation and suppress an overactive immune response. It may be prescribed for a wide range of inflammatory, allergic, autoimmune and other steroid-responsive conditions. The appropriate dose and treatment duration depend on the condition being treated. Prednisolone should be used under medical supervision, particularly when taken for longer periods. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps reduce inflammation * Suppresses excessive immune-system activity * Helps relieve swelling, redness and inflammatory symptoms * May be used for allergic and autoimmune conditions * Can help control inflammation affecting different organs and tissues * Available in a low-strength 2.5 mg tablet for individualized dosing ## USES / INDICATIONS Prednisolone may be prescribed for: * Allergic and inflammatory conditions * Rheumatic and autoimmune disorders * Certain skin diseases * Inflammatory joint conditions * Asthma and other respiratory inflammatory conditions * Certain eye conditions * Inflammatory bowel diseases * Some blood disorders * Certain kidney disorders * Other corticosteroid-responsive conditions The specific indication should be determined by a healthcare professional. ## HOW IT WORKS Prednisolone is a **synthetic glucocorticoid corticosteroid**. It enters cells and influences gene activity involved in the body's inflammatory and immune responses. This reduces the production and release of substances that contribute to inflammation. As a result, prednisolone can reduce: * Swelling * Redness * Pain associated with inflammation * Allergic reactions * Excessive immune activity ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Take Prednisolone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. * The dose varies considerably depending on the condition and severity. * **2.5 mg is a tablet strength, not a standard dose for every condition.** * Take it with food or milk if it causes stomach discomfort. * If prescribed once daily, it is often taken in the morning. * Do not change the dose or treatment duration without medical advice. * If treatment has continued for an extended period, the dose may need to be reduced gradually rather than stopped suddenly. ### Missed Dose Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate. ## SIDE EFFECTS Possible side effects include: * Increased appetite * Indigestion or stomach discomfort * Difficulty sleeping * Mood changes * Nervousness or restlessness * Headache * Increased blood glucose * Fluid retention * Increased blood pressure * Weight gain ### Long-Term or High-Dose Effects Long-term or high-dose treatment can increase the risk of: * Osteoporosis * Cataracts * Glaucoma * Muscle weakness * Skin thinning and easy bruising * Increased susceptibility to infections * Adrenal suppression * Cushingoid changes * Delayed wound healing ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * **Do not stop prednisolone suddenly** after prolonged treatment unless instructed by your doctor. * Corticosteroids can suppress the immune system and may increase susceptibility to infections. * Tell your doctor if you have diabetes because prednisolone can increase blood glucose. * Inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, osteoporosis, glaucoma, cataracts or a history of psychiatric problems. * Tell your doctor if you have a stomach ulcer or other gastrointestinal disease. * Inform your doctor about tuberculosis or other current or previous infections. * Avoid close contact with people who have certain contagious infections when advised by your healthcare professional. * Some vaccines may require special consideration during corticosteroid treatment. * Long-term treatment may require monitoring of blood pressure, blood glucose, bone health and other parameters. * Children receiving prolonged corticosteroid treatment may require monitoring of growth. * Seek medical attention for signs of serious infection, severe abdominal pain, vision changes or significant mood changes. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Prednisolone may interact with: * NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen and diclofenac * Medicines for diabetes * Anticoagulants such as warfarin * Certain anticonvulsants * Rifampicin and other medicines that affect corticosteroid metabolism * Some antifungal medicines * Certain HIV medicines * Diuretics * Medicines that affect potassium levels * Some vaccines Taking corticosteroids with NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation or bleeding. Prednisolone can also reduce the effectiveness of some diabetes medicines by increasing blood glucose. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, OTC medicines, supplements and herbal products you use. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep at room temperature unless otherwise specified. * Protect from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight. * Keep tablets in their original packaging. * Keep out of reach of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use tablets if the packaging is damaged or the tablets appear abnormal. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prednisolone 2.5 mg is generally a prescription medicine.** It should be used under medical supervision, particularly when treatment involves higher doses or prolonged use. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine Prednisolone 2.5 mg: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name and strength. * Verify the manufacturer's details. * Check the batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the packaging and seal are intact. * Do not purchase medicines from unauthorized sources. * Follow the recommended storage conditions. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Prednisolone 2.5 mg used for? Prednisolone 2.5 mg is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and suppress excessive immune responses in various inflammatory, allergic and autoimmune conditions. ### Is Prednisolone a steroid? Yes. Prednisolone is a **corticosteroid**, also known as a glucocorticoid. ### What does Prednisolone 2.5 mg do? It reduces inflammation and suppresses excessive immune-system activity, helping control symptoms associated with steroid-responsive conditions. ### Is Prednisolone 2.5 mg a strong steroid? Prednisolone is a systemic corticosteroid, but **2.5 mg is a relatively low tablet strength**. The clinical potency and appropriate dose depend on the condition and treatment regimen. ### How long does Prednisolone take to work? Prednisolone can begin reducing inflammation relatively quickly, although the time needed to notice improvement varies according to the condition being treated. ### Can Prednisolone be taken after food? Yes. Taking prednisolone with food or milk may help reduce stomach irritation. ### Why is Prednisolone often taken in the morning? When prescribed once daily, morning administration may better align with the body's natural corticosteroid rhythm and may reduce sleep disturbances for some people. ### Can Prednisolone cause weight gain? Yes. Increased appetite and fluid retention can contribute to weight gain, particularly with higher doses or prolonged treatment. ### Can Prednisolone increase blood sugar? Yes. Prednisolone can increase blood glucose levels. People with diabetes may need closer monitoring while taking it. ### Does Prednisolone weaken the immune system? Yes. Corticosteroids can suppress immune function, particularly at higher doses or with prolonged treatment, increasing susceptibility to some infections. ### Can Prednisolone be stopped suddenly? **Do not stop long-term or high-dose prednisolone suddenly.** The dose may need to be gradually reduced under medical supervision to allow the body's adrenal glands to recover. ### What happens if I miss a dose of Prednisolone? Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the next dose. ### Can Prednisolone be taken with ibuprofen? The combination may increase the risk of stomach irritation, ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding. Use them together only when advised by a healthcare professional. ### Can Prednisolone be taken with paracetamol? Prednisolone and paracetamol can sometimes be used together, but the combination should still be used according to appropriate dosing and medical advice. ### Can Prednisolone affect sleep? Yes. Difficulty sleeping, restlessness or mood changes can occur. Taking a once-daily dose in the morning may help reduce sleep-related problems when appropriate. ### Can Prednisolone cause mood changes? Yes. Some people may experience mood changes, irritability, anxiety, restlessness or other psychological effects. Severe mood or behavioral changes should be reported to a healthcare professional. ### Can Prednisolone be used during pregnancy? Prednisolone may be used during pregnancy when medically necessary. The decision should be made by a healthcare professional after assessing the potential benefits and risks. ### Can Prednisolone be used while breastfeeding? Prednisolone can sometimes be used during breastfeeding, but the dose and duration should be discussed with a healthcare professional. ### Can children take Prednisolone 2.5 mg? Children may receive prednisolone for specific medical conditions, but the dose is usually determined according to the child's condition, age, size and clinical response. ### Does Prednisolone cure inflammation? Prednisolone can effectively **control inflammation**, but it does not necessarily cure the underlying condition causing the inflammation. ### Can Prednisolone cause osteoporosis? Long-term corticosteroid treatment can reduce bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Your doctor may recommend monitoring or preventive measures during prolonged treatment. ### Can Prednisolone affect eyesight? Long-term or repeated corticosteroid use can increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Report persistent blurred vision, eye pain or other significant visual changes. ### How should Prednisolone 2.5 mg be stored? Store it according to the manufacturer's instructions, generally at room temperature and away from excessive heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. **Prednisolone 2.5 mg is a prescription corticosteroid and should be used only as directed by a qualified healthcare professional.** The appropriate dose and duration vary substantially according to the medical condition. Prolonged or high-dose treatment can cause significant adverse effects, and sudden discontinuation after extended treatment can be dangerous. Inform your doctor about infections, diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, glaucoma, cataracts, stomach ulcers and other medical conditions before use. Seek professional medical advice before changing the dose or stopping treatment.