Adults

Dosage varies widely based on the condition treated and route of administration. For intramuscular use, 40-120 mg every 1-4 weeks. For intra-articular use, 4-80 mg depending on joint size.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment for elderly, but use with caution due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects. Start with the lowest effective dose.

Renal_impairment

No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but monitor fluid and electrolyte balance.

Onset

Onset of action typically occurs within hours to days, depending on the route of administration and the condition being treated.

Excretion

Excreted mainly by the kidneys as inactive metabolites.

Half life

The biological half-life is approximately 18-36 hours, but the duration of clinical effect can extend for weeks due to slow absorption.

Absorption

Slowly absorbed from the site of intramuscular or intra-articular injection, providing a prolonged duration of action.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 enzymes.

NSAIDs

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.

Warfarin

Altered anticoagulant effect (can increase or decrease).

Live or attenuated vaccines

Risk of severe infection if given while on immunosuppressive doses.

CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin)

May decrease corticosteroid levels, reducing efficacy.

Diuretics (e.g., Thiazides, Loop diuretics)

Enhanced potassium depletion.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Erythromycin)

May increase corticosteroid levels, increasing risk of side effects.