Zenilon
Generic Name
Prednisolone
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zenilon 5 mg tablet | ৳ 1.14 | ৳ 11.40 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zenilon 5 mg Tablet contains Prednisolone, a corticosteroid used to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including allergies, asthma, arthritis, and skin disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose typically 5-60 mg daily, adjusted according to response and condition. Maintenance doses usually 5-10 mg daily.
Elderly
Lower doses may be required due to increased susceptibility to side effects and potential comorbidities. Use with caution.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment usually required, as renal excretion plays a minor role in its elimination. However, caution is advised.
How to Take
Take with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not stop abruptly; taper down dose gradually as advised by your doctor to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Mechanism of Action
Prednisolone works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation by inhibiting the release of substances that cause inflammation. It acts by binding to specific glucocorticoid receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-2 hours for anti-inflammatory effects.
Excretion
Excreted mainly in the urine, primarily as metabolites and some unchanged drug.
Half life
Biological half-life is 18-36 hours, while plasma half-life is 2-4 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites (e.g., prednisone and its 20-hydroxy derivatives).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections (unless anti-fungal treatment is concurrently given)
- Hypersensitivity to prednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live vaccines (during high-dose corticosteroid therapy)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effects; careful monitoring of INR is required.
Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)
Increased potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease prednisolone levels, reducing its effectiveness.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Antidiabetics (e.g., insulin, oral hypoglycemics)
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include mood swings, fluid retention, and hypertension. Management includes supportive and symptomatic measures. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administering to a nursing mother. Consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections (unless anti-fungal treatment is concurrently given)
- Hypersensitivity to prednisolone or any component of the formulation
- Live vaccines (during high-dose corticosteroid therapy)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May alter anticoagulant effects; careful monitoring of INR is required.
Diuretics (Thiazide or Loop)
Increased potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia.
Phenytoin, Phenobarbital, Rifampicin
May decrease prednisolone levels, reducing its effectiveness.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Antidiabetics (e.g., insulin, oral hypoglycemics)
May increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic medication.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Acute overdose is rare. Symptoms may include mood swings, fluid retention, and hypertension. Management includes supportive and symptomatic measures. Long-term overdose can lead to Cushingoid features.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administering to a nursing mother. Consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the manufacturing date, consult package for exact date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Generally approved worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Prednisolone has been extensively studied and widely used for decades across various indications. Numerous clinical trials have established its efficacy and safety profile for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (especially in diabetics or those at risk)
- Electrolytes (e.g., potassium, sodium)
- Bone mineral density (with long-term use)
- Growth monitoring in children
- Blood pressure
Doctor Notes
- Always consider the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to minimize adverse effects.
- Dosage must be tapered gradually, especially after prolonged therapy, to prevent adrenal insufficiency.
- Monitor patients for signs of infection, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and bone density with long-term use.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor; do not alter the dose or stop the medication suddenly.
- Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Report any unusual side effects, especially severe mood changes, swelling, or signs of infection, to your doctor immediately.
- Carry an identification card stating that you are on corticosteroid therapy, especially if on long-term treatment.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Prednisolone may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving if they experience such effects.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet, potentially low in sodium to manage fluid retention and high in potassium.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise can help counteract bone density loss with long-term use.
- Avoid close contact with people who have infections (e.g., chickenpox, measles) if your immune system is suppressed.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.