Are Prednisolone and Prednisone the Same Drug?
No, prednisolone and prednisone are not identical, but they are closely related corticosteroids used for the same anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive purposes, like treating allergies, asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune conditions. Prednisone is a prodrug that the body converts into the active form, prednisolone, via liver enzymes.[1]
How Does Prednisone Turn into Prednisolone?
Prednisone is inactive until metabolized in the liver by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme into prednisolone, which exerts the therapeutic effects. This conversion happens quickly in most people, so prednisone acts like prednisolone once absorbed.[1][2]
When Would Someone Use One Over the Other?
Doctors prescribe prednisolone directly to patients with liver issues or reduced enzyme activity, such as infants, elderly individuals, or those with liver disease, because it doesn't require conversion. Prednisone is cheaper and more stable in tablet form, making it the default choice otherwise.[2][3]
Do They Have the Same Dosage and Side Effects?
Doses are equivalent on a milligram basis—5 mg prednisone equals 5 mg prednisolone—due to the direct conversion. Both carry identical side effects, including weight gain, high blood pressure, osteoporosis risk with long-term use, increased infection susceptibility, and adrenal suppression.[1][3]
What's the Difference in Forms and Availability?
Prednisone comes mainly as oral tablets. Prednisolone offers more options: tablets, liquid suspensions (useful for children), eye drops, and injections. Both are generic with no active patents listed on DrugPatentWatch.com.[4]
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534809/
[2] https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/prednisone-prednisolone-difference-3561994/
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/prednisone-oral-route/description/drg-20075269
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/