Medicine Information

Cortan

Name: Cortan
Brand: Cortan
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet5 mgCorticosteroidsATC: H02AB06

Generic Name

Prednisolone

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
cortan 5 mg tablet	৳ 1.72	৳ 24.08

Description

Overview of the medicine

Cortan 5 mg Tablet contains Prednisolone, a synthetic corticosteroid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It is widely used to treat various conditions including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, and breathing disorders.

Uses & Indications

Allergic disorders (e.g., severe asthma, allergic rhinitis, drug hypersensitivity reactions)

Rheumatic disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus)

Skin diseases (e.g., severe psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis)

Respiratory diseases (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma)

Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)

Ophthalmic diseases (e.g., allergic conjunctivitis, keratitis)

Hematological disorders (e.g., hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia)

Neoplastic diseases (as palliative treatment or for management of chemotherapy side effects)

Dosage

Adults

Dosage varies widely based on condition. Typically 5-60 mg orally per day, in single or divided doses. For acute conditions, higher initial doses may be used, then tapered. Follow physician's instructions strictly.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustments are usually required, but caution is advised due to increased susceptibility to side effects. Lower starting doses may be considered.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment is generally required for renal impairment, as prednisolone is primarily metabolized in the liver.

How to Take

Take the tablet orally, usually with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless specifically advised by a physician. Follow the prescribed dosage regimen.

Mechanism of Action

Prednisolone acts as a glucocorticoid receptor agonist. It binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates into the nucleus. This complex then modulates gene expression, leading to the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins and the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This results in reduced inflammation and immunosuppression.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Anti-inflammatory effects typically begin within 1-2 hours; maximal suppression of inflammation may take several days.

Excretion

Excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount excreted in the bile.

Half life

Plasma half-life: 2-4 hours; Biological half-life: 18-36 hours.

Absorption

Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after oral administration.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites, including conjugation with glucuronic acid.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections
Hypersensitivity to prednisolone or any component of the formulation
Live vaccines (during immunosuppressive doses)

Drug Interactions

NSAIDs

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.

Warfarin

May alter anticoagulant effects; monitor INR.

Cyclosporine

May increase plasma concentrations of both drugs.

Antidiabetic agents

May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.

Diuretics (thiazide and loop)

May enhance potassium depletion.

Phenobarbital, Rifampin, Phenytoin

May reduce corticosteroid efficacy by increasing its metabolism.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Management is primarily symptomatic and supportive; no specific antidote exists. Long-term overdose can lead to severe side effects.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in infants. Consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 x 10 tablets (100 tablets)5 x 10 tablets (50 tablets)

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Prednisolone, a well-established corticosteroid, has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy in a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions over decades. Current research focuses on optimizing dosage regimens and minimizing long-term side effects.

Lab Monitoring

Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients)
Electrolyte levels (potassium, sodium)
Blood pressure monitoring
Bone mineral density (for long-term use)
Ophthalmic examinations (for long-term use, to check for cataracts/glaucoma)

Doctor Notes

Always emphasize the importance of gradual tapering to prevent adrenal crisis.
Monitor patients for signs of infection, especially with high doses or long-term therapy.
Advise patients on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) to mitigate long-term side effects.
Regularly assess blood pressure, blood glucose, and bone density for patients on chronic therapy.

Patient Guidelines

Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding/bruising, or severe mood changes to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

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 and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Driving Precautions

Cortan 5 mg Tablet generally does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or muscle weakness, avoid such activities and consult your doctor.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a balanced diet, low in sodium and rich in potassium and calcium, to counteract potential side effects. Engage in regular, moderate exercise to maintain bone density and muscle strength. Avoid alcohol and smoking.