Oracort
Generic Name
Prednisolone
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| oracort 05 mg tablet | ৳ 0.40 | ৳ 4.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Prednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid used for its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including allergic disorders, inflammatory diseases, and certain autoimmune conditions.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Dosage varies widely depending on the condition being treated, typically 5-60 mg daily, given as a single dose or in divided doses. For Oracort 5 mg, common starting doses for mild conditions may be 5-10 mg daily.
Elderly
Lower doses may be considered in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to side effects and potential comorbidities. Close monitoring is recommended.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but careful monitoring of fluid and electrolyte balance is advisable.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not stop suddenly without consultation.
Mechanism of Action
Prednisolone exerts its effects by binding to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors. This complex translocates to the nucleus, where it modulates gene expression, leading to reduced synthesis of inflammatory mediators (e.g., prostaglandins, leukotrienes) and suppression of immune cell function.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action varies depending on the condition being treated, generally within hours to days.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine as inactive metabolites.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is approximately 2-4 hours, but the biological half-life (duration of action) is longer, typically 18-36 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after administration.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to prednisolone or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampicin
May reduce corticosteroid effects by increasing metabolism.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (especially thiazide or loop diuretics)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are unlikely, but chronic overdose may lead to Cushingoid features, fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Management involves supportive care and gradual withdrawal of the drug.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised and monitor the infant for adverse effects.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections
- Known hypersensitivity to prednisolone or any component of the formulation
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Effects may be altered; close monitoring of INR is required.
Insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring dose adjustment of antidiabetic drugs.
Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampicin
May reduce corticosteroid effects by increasing metabolism.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding.
Diuretics (especially thiazide or loop diuretics)
May enhance potassium depletion.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of acute overdose are unlikely, but chronic overdose may lead to Cushingoid features, fluid retention, hypertension, and hyperglycemia. Management involves supportive care and gradual withdrawal of the drug.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised and monitor the infant for adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Prednisolone is a well-established drug with extensive clinical trial data supporting its efficacy and safety across various indications. Ongoing research continues to explore optimal dosing strategies and long-term outcomes.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetics)
- Serum electrolytes (e.g., potassium)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Bone mineral density (for long-term therapy)
- Adrenal function tests (if adrenal suppression is suspected)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of gradual tapering of the dose to prevent adrenal crisis.
- Monitor patients for signs of infection, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Advise long-term users on appropriate calcium and vitamin D supplementation and bone density monitoring.
- Caution against abrupt discontinuation, which can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed and do not alter the dose or stop the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially signs of infection, severe mood changes, or stomach pain.
- If on long-term therapy, carry a steroid card and inform healthcare professionals about your medication.
- Avoid exposure to people with chickenpox or measles if you have not had them or been vaccinated.
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 continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Prednisolone generally does not impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or mood changes, avoid these activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet, potentially low in sodium and high in potassium, and adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to help maintain bone density and muscle strength.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can exacerbate certain side effects.
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