Prednisolone Tablets
Prednisolone tablets are a prescription-only corticosteroid medicine used to treat inflammation associated with respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They work by reducing immune system activity and inflammation in the airways, helping to relieve symptoms during flare-ups.
Select Strength & Formulation:
| Product Name: | Prednisolone Tablets |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer: | Various UK licensed manufacturers |
| Active Ingredient: | Prednisolone |
| Administration: | Oral tablet |
| Presentation: | Standard tablets: white; Gastroresistant: brown/maroon |
| Available Strengths: | 1mg, 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 25mg |
| Prescription Required: | Yes |
| Dosage: | Once daily (usually in morning) |
| Suitable for pregnancy? | Medical supervision only |
| Use with alcohol: | Avoid or limit alcohol consumption |
| Dose & Formulation | Package | Current Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1mg Standard | 28 tablets | £15.49 |
| 5mg Standard | 28 tablets | £19.49 |
| 2.5mg Gastroresistant | 28 tablets | £17.49 |
| 5mg Gastroresistant | 28 tablets | £19.49 |
| 1mg Standard | 56 tablets | £28.81 |
| 5mg Standard | 56 tablets | £36.25 |
| 2.5mg Gastroresistant | 56 tablets | £32.53 |
| 5mg Gastroresistant | 56 tablets | £36.25 |
| Prednisolone is a corticosteroid medication used for asthma and COPD flare-ups. It belongs to the drug class glucocorticoids. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting this medication. | ||
| This treatment requires an online consultation for review by our medical team. The decision to supply the specific treatment and quantity requested will be based on whether our medical team are satisfied that it will be safe, appropriate, and effective. | ||
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Table of Contents
- What is Prednisolone?
- Prednisolone Tablet Types
- What is Prednisolone Used For?
- Before Using Prednisolone
- Prednisolone Contraindications
- Special Population Considerations
- Prednisolone and Other Medicines
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Driving & Machine Operation
- Prednisolone Ingredients
- How to Use Prednisolone
- Prednisolone Dosage Guidelines
- Administration Instructions
- Missed Dose Management
- Overdose Information
- Prednisolone Side Effects
- How to Store Prednisolone
- Prednisolone Pack Information
- Prednisolone FAQs
What is Prednisolone?
Prednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid medication that mimics the effects of cortisol, a natural hormone produced by your adrenal glands. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucocorticoids, which are potent anti-inflammatory agents.
Active Ingredient and Drug Class
The active ingredient in Prednisolone tablets is prednisolone, a synthetic glucocorticoid. It's classified as a corticosteroid, specifically a medium-potency glucocorticoid with mineralocorticoid activity.
Mechanism of Action with Patient-Friendly Analogies
Think of inflammation in asthma or COPD like a fire in your airways. Your immune system cells are the "firefighters" that have overreacted and are now causing damage instead of helping. Prednisolone acts like a fire chief who tells the overzealous firefighters to stand down, reducing the inflammation and swelling in your airways.
More specifically, Prednisolone works by:
- Entering immune cells and binding to glucocorticoid receptors
- This complex moves to the cell nucleus and affects gene expression
- It reduces production of inflammatory proteins (cytokines)
- It increases production of anti-inflammatory proteins
- It stabilizes cell membranes to prevent release of more inflammatory substances
Biological Pathway Explanation
During an asthma attack or COPD exacerbation, inflammatory cells (eosinophils, neutrophils, T-lymphocytes) release substances like leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and cytokines that cause airway swelling, mucus production, and bronchoconstriction. Prednisolone inhibits the NF-κB pathway, a key regulator of inflammation genes, reducing the production of these inflammatory mediators. It also causes apoptosis (programmed cell death) of eosinophils, which are particularly important in allergic asthma.
Prednisolone Tablet Types: Standard vs Gastroresistant
Prednisolone tablets are available in different formulations, including standard immediate-release tablets and gastroresistant (enteric-coated) tablets. Understanding the differences between these formulations is important for proper administration and effectiveness.
What Are Gastroresistant Tablets?
Gastroresistant tablets, also known as enteric-coated tablets, have a special coating designed to resist stomach acid. This coating prevents the tablet from dissolving in the stomach, allowing it to pass intact to the small intestine where it dissolves and is absorbed. This design serves two main purposes:
- Reduces stomach irritation: By preventing dissolution in the stomach, gastroresistant tablets minimize direct contact between prednisolone and the stomach lining, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like indigestion, nausea, and stomach ulcers.
- Protects the medication: For certain medications that might be degraded by stomach acid, the coating ensures the active ingredient reaches the intestine intact for optimal absorption.
Comparison of Prednisolone Tablet Types
| Feature | Standard 1mg/5mg Tablets | Gastroresistant 2.5mg/5mg Tablets | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Available Strengths | 1mg, 5mg | 2.5mg, 5mg | Gastroresistant tablets include 2.5mg strength not typically available in standard formulation |
| Tablet Coating | Standard coating (dissolves in stomach) | Special gastroresistant coating (dissolves in intestine) | Coating is the primary functional difference affecting where absorption occurs |
| Appearance | White, round tablets | 2.5mg: Brown tablet 5mg: Maroon tablet | Different colors help distinguish between formulations and strengths |
| Absorption Site | Primarily in stomach and upper small intestine | Primarily in small intestine (after stomach) | Absorption delayed by approximately 1-2 hours compared to standard tablets |
| GI Side Effect Risk | Higher risk of stomach irritation | Lower risk of stomach irritation | Gastroresistant formulation preferred for patients with history of GI issues |
| Administration with Food | Take with or after food to reduce stomach irritation | Can be taken before or after food (coating protects regardless) | More flexibility in timing with gastroresistant tablets |
| Crushing/Chewing | Should not be crushed or chewed | MUST NOT be crushed or chewed (destroys coating) | Crushing gastroresistant tablets eliminates their protective function |
When to Choose Gastroresistant Tablets
Your doctor may prescribe gastroresistant prednisolone tablets if you:
- Have a history of stomach ulcers or gastritis
- Experience significant stomach discomfort with standard tablets
- Have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Require long-term prednisolone treatment
- Are taking other medications that irritate the stomach
CRITICAL ADMINISTRATION GUIDANCE
Gastroresistant tablets must NEVER be crushed, chewed, or broken. Doing so destroys the protective coating, causing the tablet to dissolve in the stomach and eliminating its gastroprotective benefits. This can lead to increased stomach irritation and potentially reduced effectiveness.
If you have difficulty swallowing tablets whole, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about alternative formulations (such as soluble tablets or liquid formulations) rather than attempting to modify gastroresistant tablets.
What is Prednisolone Used For?
Prednisolone tablets are primarily used as an anti-inflammatory treatment for acute exacerbations of respiratory conditions and various inflammatory disorders.
Approved Indications for Asthma & COPD
| Condition | Indication | Typical Treatment Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Asthma Exacerbation | Moderate to severe asthma attacks not responding to bronchodilators | 5-14 days |
| COPD Exacerbation | Acute worsening of COPD symptoms with increased inflammation | 5-14 days |
| Severe Chronic Asthma | Maintenance therapy when inhaled steroids insufficient (lowest effective dose) | Long-term (monitored) |
CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING
Do not stop taking Prednisolone suddenly if you have been taking it for more than 3 weeks. Sudden discontinuation can cause adrenal insufficiency, leading to severe fatigue, low blood pressure, and potentially life-threatening collapse. Always follow your doctor's instructions for tapering the dose.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of severe infection (fever, chills) or severe allergic reaction (swelling of face/tongue, difficulty breathing) while taking Prednisolone.
Before Using Prednisolone
Before starting Prednisolone treatment, a thorough medical assessment is essential to ensure safety and appropriateness.
Medical History Assessment Checklist
Your clinician will review the following conditions:
- Any history of steroid allergies
- Current or recent infections (viral, bacterial, fungal)
- History of tuberculosis or exposure to TB
- Diabetes or family history of diabetes
- High blood pressure or heart conditions
- Osteoporosis or bone density issues
- Stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal problems
- Mental health conditions (depression, bipolar disorder)
- Liver or kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- Recent vaccinations
Prednisolone Contraindications
Contraindications are conditions that make Prednisolone treatment potentially harmful.
Absolute Contraindications (Do Not Use)
- Allergy to prednisolone or any tablet ingredients
- Systemic fungal infections (unless receiving antifungal treatment)
- Live virus vaccinations while on immunosuppressive doses
- Cerebral malaria
- Active herpes simplex eye infection
Relative Contraindications (Use with Extreme Caution)
- Active peptic ulcer disease
- Psychiatric conditions (especially steroid-induced psychosis history)
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Congestive heart failure
- Severe osteoporosis
- Diabetes mellitus (poorly controlled)
- Chronic kidney disease stage 4-5
- Liver failure
Special Population Considerations
Elderly Patients (65+ years)
Elderly patients are more susceptible to:
- Hypertension exacerbation
- Diabetes mellitus onset or worsening
- Osteoporosis and fracture risk
- Skin thinning and bruising
- Increased infection risk
- Fluid retention and heart failure exacerbation
Recommendation: Use lowest effective dose for shortest duration; monitor blood pressure, glucose, and bone health regularly.
Pediatric & Adolescent Restrictions
Children are particularly sensitive to corticosteroid effects:
- Growth suppression is a significant concern with prolonged use
- Increased intracranial pressure risk
- Behavioral changes more common
- Vaccination schedule may need adjustment
Recommendation: Use only when absolutely necessary; shortest possible duration; monitor growth velocity; use alternate-day dosing when possible for chronic conditions.
Prednisolone and Other Medicines
Prednisolone interacts with many medications. Always inform your doctor about ALL medicines you take, including prescription, OTC, and herbal supplements.
High-Risk Medication Combinations
| Medication Class | Examples | Interaction Effect | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSAIDs | Ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac | Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding | Avoid combination; if necessary, use gastroprotection |
| Anticoagulants | Warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban | Altered anticoagulant effect; increased bleeding risk | Monitor INR closely; adjust dose as needed |
| Antidiabetics | Insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas | Increased blood glucose; reduced diabetic control | Monitor glucose frequently; adjust diabetic medication |
| Diuretics | Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide | Enhanced potassium loss; hypokalemia risk | Monitor electrolytes; potassium supplementation may be needed |
Timing Recommendations for Other Medications
- Antacids: Separate from prednisolone by 2+ hours (reduced absorption)
- Cholestyramine: Separate by 4+ hours (binds prednisolone)
- Morning medications: Take prednisolone in morning to mimic natural cortisol rhythm
- Food: Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy Considerations
Prednisolone crosses the placenta but to a lesser extent than other corticosteroids. The benefits of treating serious maternal conditions often outweigh potential risks.
- First trimester: Low risk of teratogenicity at therapeutic doses
- Third trimester: Monitor for neonatal adrenal suppression if high doses used
- High doses: May increase risk of cleft palate (small increased risk)
Contraindication statement: Prednisolone should only be used in pregnancy when clearly needed and under close medical supervision. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest possible duration.
Breastfeeding Safety
Prednisolone is excreted in breast milk in small amounts (less than 10% of maternal dose).
- Considered compatible with breastfeeding at low to moderate doses
- Wait 3-4 hours after dose before breastfeeding to minimize infant exposure
- Monitor infant for signs of adrenal suppression with high maternal doses
- No adverse effects reported in breastfed infants with maternal doses <40mg/day
Driving & Machine Operation
Prednisolone can affect your ability to perform potentially hazardous activities.
Impairment Potential Assessment
- Dizziness: May occur, especially with higher doses
- Visual disturbances: Possible with prolonged use (cataracts, glaucoma)
- Muscle weakness: Steroid myopathy can affect physical coordination
- Psychiatric effects: Euphoria, depression, or confusion may impair judgment
Warning Signs to Watch For
Do not drive or operate machinery if you experience:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Blurred vision or visual disturbances
- Significant muscle weakness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Extreme fatigue
Prednisolone Ingredients
Active Ingredient
- Prednisolone: 1mg, 2.5mg, or 5mg per tablet (depending on strength and formulation)
Excipients (Inactive Ingredients) and Their Functions
| Ingredient | Function | Allergen Information |
|---|---|---|
| Lactose monohydrate | Filler/bulking agent | Contains lactose - avoid if lactose intolerant |
| Maize starch | Disintegrant/binder | Gluten-free; corn allergy warning |
| Povidone | Binder | Generally well-tolerated |
| Magnesium stearate | Lubricant | Generally well-tolerated |
Important: Prednisolone tablets contain lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.
How to Use Prednisolone
Proper administration ensures maximum effectiveness and minimizes side effects.
Step-by-Step Administration Guide
- Wash your hands with soap and water
- Remove tablet from blister pack just before taking
- Swallow whole with a full glass of water (do not chew or crush)
- Take with food to reduce stomach irritation
- Take in the morning (usually) to mimic natural cortisol rhythm
- Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking to prevent esophageal irritation
- Record the time and dose in your medication diary
Special Administration Considerations
- Difficulty swallowing: Consult pharmacist - some tablets can be divided along score line
- Tube feeding: Not recommended to crush; alternative formulations available
- Children: Ensure proper dose based on weight; use oral solution if available for accuracy
Prednisolone Dosage Guidelines
Dosage varies widely depending on condition being treated, severity, and individual response.
Standard Dosage Table for Asthma & COPD
| Condition | Initial Dose | Maintenance Dose | Duration | Tapering Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acute Asthma Exacerbation (Adults) | 40-60mg once daily | Reduce by 5-10mg every 1-3 days | 5-14 days total | Not always needed if <3 weeks treatment |
| Acute Asthma Exacerbation (Children) | 1-2mg/kg/day (max 40mg) | Reduce over 3-5 days | 3-5 days usually sufficient | Usually not needed for short courses |
| COPD Exacerbation | 30-40mg once daily | Reduce over 7-14 days | 5-14 days | May taper if >14 days treatment |
Titration Schedules
Example tapering schedule after 2 weeks of 40mg daily:
| Week | Daily Dose | Administration Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Week 3 | 30mg | Once daily in morning |
| Week 4 | 20mg | Once daily in morning |
| Week 5 | 15mg | Once daily in morning |
| Week 6 | 10mg | Once daily in morning |
| Week 7 | 5mg | Once daily in morning |
| Week 8 | Stop | Discontinue |
Note: Tapering schedules are individualized. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
Administration Instructions
Proper administration technique ensures optimal absorption and effectiveness.
Timing Considerations
- Morning dose (preferred): Mimics natural cortisol peak (8am); reduces insomnia risk
- With food: Reduces gastrointestinal irritation
- Consistent timing: Take at same time each day for stable blood levels
- Alternate-day therapy: For long-term use to reduce side effects; take double dose every other morning
Food and Drink Interactions
- Avoid liquorice: Contains glycyrrhizin which enhances mineralocorticoid effects (fluid retention, hypertension)
- Limit grapefruit juice: May inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes, potentially increasing prednisolone levels
- Moderate alcohol: Increased risk of gastrointestinal irritation and ulcers
- High-sodium foods: May exacerbate fluid retention and hypertension
Missed Dose Management
Proper management of missed doses prevents both undertreatment and overdose.
Time-Based Guidance Table
| Time Since Missed Dose | Action | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 4 hours late | Take missed dose immediately with food | Maintains therapeutic levels |
| 4-12 hours late (once daily dosing) | Take missed dose if next dose >12 hours away | Avoids double dosing |
| More than 12 hours late (once daily) | Skip missed dose; take next dose at usual time | Prevents dose stacking |
Special Considerations
- Adrenal insufficiency risk: If on long-term therapy (>3 weeks), never miss more than one dose without medical advice
- Asthma/COPD control: Contact doctor if symptoms worsen after missed dose
- Medication reminder tools: Use pill boxes, phone alarms, or medication apps to prevent missed doses
Overdose Information
Prednisolone overdose can be serious but is rarely fatal. Acute overdose management focuses on symptomatic treatment.
Symptoms of Overdose
- Mild overdose: Increased appetite, insomnia, euphoria, fluid retention
- Moderate overdose: Hypertension, hyperglycemia, mood swings, muscle weakness
- Severe overdose: Psychosis, severe hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, adrenal crisis upon withdrawal
Management Protocols
| Situation | Immediate Action | Medical Management |
|---|---|---|
| Accidental single extra dose | Monitor for side effects; no urgent action usually needed | Continue normal schedule; may skip next dose if large overdose |
| Multiple extra doses (2-3x normal) | Contact doctor or NHS 111 for advice | May need dose adjustment; monitor blood pressure and glucose |
| Large intentional overdose | Go to A&E or call 999 immediately | Supportive care; monitor electrolytes, glucose, cardiac function |
Prednisolone Side Effects
Like all medicines, Prednisolone can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Frequency-Based Categorization
| Frequency | Definition | Common Side Effects in This Category |
|---|---|---|
| Very Common (>1 in 10) | Affects more than 10% of users | Increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, indigestion |
| Common (>1 in 100 to <1 in 10) | Affects 1-10% of users | Mood changes, hypertension, diabetes exacerbation, muscle weakness |
| Uncommon (>1 in 1,000 to <1 in 100) | Affects 0.1-1% of users | Peptic ulcers, increased intracranial pressure, glaucoma |
| Rare (>1 in 10,000 to <1 in 1,000) | Affects 0.01-0.1% of users | Pancreatitis, severe psychiatric reactions, anaphylaxis |
STOP TAKING AND SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL HELP IF YOU EXPERIENCE:
- Severe allergic reaction: Swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing, hives
- Severe psychiatric symptoms: Thoughts of self-harm, severe depression, mania, hallucinations
- Signs of infection: High fever, chills, severe sore throat (steroids can mask infection signs)
- Severe abdominal pain: May indicate pancreatitis or perforated ulcer
- Vision changes: Sudden blurred vision, eye pain (possible glaucoma or cataract)
- Severe headache: With nausea/vomiting (increased intracranial pressure)
How to Store Prednisolone
Proper storage maintains medication effectiveness and safety.
Temperature Requirements
- Store below 25°C in original packaging
- Protect from light and moisture
- Do not refrigerate unless specified on packaging
- Keep blister strips sealed until use to protect from humidity
Disposal Protocols
- Do not flush tablets down toilet or drain
- Return unused medication to pharmacy for safe disposal
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Expired medication: Dispose of safely; do not use after expiry date
Prednisolone Pack Information
Prednisolone tablets are available in various pack sizes and strengths.
Pack Size Variations
| Strength & Formulation | Common Pack Sizes | Tablet Identification |
|---|---|---|
| 1mg Standard | 30, 100 tablets | White, round, marked with strength |
| 2.5mg Gastroresistant | 30, 100 tablets | Brown, round gastroresistant tablet |
| 5mg Standard | 28, 30, 60, 100 tablets | White, round, scored, marked "5" or "PRED 5" |
| 5mg Gastroresistant | 30, 100 tablets | Maroon, round gastroresistant tablet |
Package Contents
- Prednisolone tablets in blister strips
- Product information leaflet (PIL)
- Outer carton with prescribing information
Where Can I Buy Prednisolone Online in the UK
Secure Prednisolone Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order Prednisolone with confidence through our UK-registered medical prescribers, who review all requests within 4 working hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible patients and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our Prednisolone service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your medication is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes discreet packaging and a GDPR-compliant consultation process.
Our clinical team ensures:
- Comprehensive medical history review
- Asthma/COPD severity assessment
- Drug interaction checks
- Personalised dosing and tapering guidance
Always consult your GP before starting corticosteroid treatment. Not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision.
Prednisolone Tablets FAQs
How long does it take for Prednisolone to work for asthma?
Prednisolone typically begins to reduce inflammation within 1-4 hours, but noticeable improvement in asthma symptoms usually occurs within 24-48 hours. Maximum benefit is generally seen within 3-5 days of starting treatment. For acute asthma attacks, you should notice improved breathing, reduced wheezing, and decreased need for rescue inhalers within the first day.
Why must I take Prednisolone with food?
Taking Prednisolone with food helps protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like indigestion, nausea, and stomach ulcers. The tablets can irritate the stomach lining, and food acts as a buffer. Additionally, some studies suggest food may improve absorption consistency.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Prednisolone?
It's best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking Prednisolone. Alcohol increases the risk of stomach irritation and ulcers, which is already elevated with corticosteroid use. Additionally, both alcohol and Prednisolone can raise blood pressure and blood sugar levels. If you do drink, limit to 1-2 units occasionally and always with food.
Why do I need to taper off Prednisolone?
If you've taken Prednisolone for more than 3 weeks, your adrenal glands may have reduced their natural cortisol production. Suddenly stopping the medication can cause adrenal insufficiency, with symptoms like severe fatigue, low blood pressure, nausea, and muscle weakness. Tapering allows your adrenal glands time to resume normal function gradually.
Can Prednisolone affect my mood?
Yes, Prednisolone can cause mood changes in some people. These may include euphoria (feeling "high"), anxiety, irritability, depression, or in rare cases, psychosis. These effects are more common with higher doses and usually occur within the first few weeks. If you experience concerning mood changes, contact your doctor immediately—do not stop taking suddenly.
What's the difference between standard and gastroresistant Prednisolone tablets?
Standard tablets dissolve in the stomach, while gastroresistant (enteric-coated) tablets have a special coating that resists stomach acid, dissolving instead in the intestine. Gastroresistant tablets reduce stomach irritation and are preferred for patients with GI issues. They come in different colors (brown for 2.5mg, maroon for 5mg) and must NEVER be crushed or chewed.
Can I get Prednisolone over the counter?
No, Prednisolone is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. It requires assessment by a doctor or qualified prescriber due to its significant side effects and need for proper dosing. At Chemist Doctor, our UK-registered clinicians can prescribe Prednisolone after an online consultation if appropriate for your condition.
What's the difference between Prednisolone and Prednisone?
Prednisone must be converted by the liver into prednisolone to become active. Prednisolone is the active form, making it preferable for people with liver problems. They're generally considered equivalent in effectiveness for most people with normal liver function. The dosing is the same (5mg prednisone = 5mg prednisolone).
Can children take Prednisolone for asthma?
Yes, children can take Prednisolone for acute asthma attacks under medical supervision. The dose is based on weight (usually 1-2mg/kg/day, maximum 40mg). Treatment should be for the shortest possible duration due to growth suppression concerns. Height should be monitored during long-term use. Never give adult doses to children.
Will Prednisolone make me gain weight?
Weight gain is a common side effect, occurring in more than 10% of users. It's caused by increased appetite, fluid retention, and fat redistribution (to face, abdomen, back of neck). Short courses (5-14 days) usually cause minimal weight gain that resolves after stopping. For longer courses, a healthy diet and exercise can help manage weight.
Can I take ibuprofen with Prednisolone?
It's generally advised to avoid ibuprofen and other NSAIDs while taking Prednisolone unless specifically recommended by your doctor. Both increase the risk of stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. If pain relief is needed, paracetamol is usually safer. If you must take both, use the lowest effective dose and take with food.
How long do Prednisolone side effects last after stopping?
Most side effects resolve within days to weeks after stopping Prednisolone, depending on treatment duration. Weight gain and moon face typically improve within 2-8 weeks. Mood changes usually resolve within days. However, some effects like osteoporosis risk, cataracts, or adrenal suppression may persist longer, especially after prolonged high-dose treatment.
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Talal is a GMC registered doctor and medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He ensures clinical accuracy and reliability across health content.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 25 Jan 2026
Next Review: 05 Aug 2026
Published on: 24 Jan 2026
Last Updated: 25 Jan 2026
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