Prednisolone (Injection)
Prednisolone (pred-NISS-oh-lone)
Treats inflammation, certain types of arthritis, and many other medical problems. Belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids.
Brand Name(s):Cotolone, Pred-Ject-50, Predacort 50
There may be other brand names for this medicine. When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to prednisolone. You should not use prednisolone if you have a fungal infection. How to Use This Medicine:
Injectable
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Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
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An IV infusion is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist, hand, or chest.
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This medicine may be given into the buttocks, upper arm, thigh, or other large muscle. This is called an IM, or intramuscular (in-tra-MUSS-cue-lar) injection.
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This medicine may be given into a joint such as a knee or shoulder. This is called an intraarticular (in-tra-are-TIC-you-lar) injection.
If a dose is missed:
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This medicine needs to be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
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If you have your treatments at a clinic, the staff at the clinic will keep your medicine there.
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If you have your treatments at home, you may need to store your medicine. Keep the powder at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light.
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Medicine that is mixed in an IV bag should be kept in the refrigerator. Do not freeze it.
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Throw away any unused prednisolone after the expiration date has passed.
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If you have your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
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Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid:
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking insulin, phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin®), rifampin, blood thinners (Coumadin®), estrogen, or diuretics (water pills).
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Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines (such as flu shots). Vaccines may not work as well while you are getting this medicine.
Warnings While Using This Medicine:
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If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before using this medicine.
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Before using prednisolone, let your doctor know if you have liver or thyroid problems, diabetes, cataracts, glaucoma, or an eye infection caused by herpes simplex.
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Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on your skin.
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It may be easier for you to get an infection while you are receiving prednisolone. Avoid crowded places or being near people who are sick.
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If you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, tell your doctor right away.
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Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are taking prednisolone.
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
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Black or tarry stools
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Muscle weakness or cramps
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Unexplained fever, sore throat
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
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Fluid retention, weight gain
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Restlessness, anxiety, mood changes
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Sweating
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Redness of the face
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Easy bruising, small purple spots on your skin
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Thinning skin, acne
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Increased hair growth
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Irregular menstrual periods
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
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