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2D Structure
Also known as: 53-03-2, Dehydrocortisone, Decortin, Deltasone, Meticorten, Orasone
Molecular Formula
C21H26O5
Molecular Weight
358.4  g/mol
InChI Key
XOFYZVNMUHMLCC-ZPOLXVRWSA-N
FDA UNII
VB0R961HZT

A synthetic anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid derived from CORTISONE. It is biologically inert and converted to PREDNISOLONE in the liver.
Prednisone is a Corticosteroid. The mechanism of action of prednisone is as a Corticosteroid Hormone Receptor Agonist.
1 2D Structure

2D Structure

2 Identification
2.1 Computed Descriptors
2.1.1 IUPAC Name
(8S,9S,10R,13S,14S,17R)-17-hydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-6,7,8,9,12,14,15,16-octahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-3,11-dione
2.1.2 InChI
InChI=1S/C21H26O5/c1-19-7-5-13(23)9-12(19)3-4-14-15-6-8-21(26,17(25)11-22)20(15,2)10-16(24)18(14)19/h5,7,9,14-15,18,22,26H,3-4,6,8,10-11H2,1-2H3/t14-,15-,18+,19-,20-,21-/m0/s1
2.1.3 InChI Key
XOFYZVNMUHMLCC-ZPOLXVRWSA-N
2.1.4 Canonical SMILES
CC12CC(=O)C3C(C1CCC2(C(=O)CO)O)CCC4=CC(=O)C=CC34C
2.1.5 Isomeric SMILES
C[C@]12CC(=O)[C@H]3[C@H]([C@@H]1CC[C@@]2(C(=O)CO)O)CCC4=CC(=O)C=C[C@]34C
2.2 Other Identifiers
2.2.1 UNII
VB0R961HZT
2.3 Synonyms
2.3.1 MeSH Synonyms

1. Acsis, Prednison

2. Apo-prednisone

3. Cortan

4. Cortancyl

5. Cutason

6. Dacortin

7. Decortin

8. Decortisyl

9. Dehydrocortisone

10. Delta-cortisone

11. Deltasone

12. Encorton

13. Encortone

14. Enkortolon

15. Kortancyl

16. Liquid Pred

17. Meticorten

18. Orasone

19. Panafcort

20. Panasol

21. Predni Tablinen

22. Prednidib

23. Predniment

24. Prednison Acsis

25. Prednison Galen

26. Prednison Hexal

27. Pronisone

28. Rectodelt

29. Sone

30. Sterapred

31. Ultracorten

32. Winpred

2.3.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

1. 53-03-2

2. Dehydrocortisone

3. Decortin

4. Deltasone

5. Meticorten

6. Orasone

7. Supercortil

8. Metacortandracin

9. Decortisyl

10. Rectodelt

11. Sterapred

12. Ultracorten

13. Dacortin

14. Encorton

15. Paracort

16. Cortan

17. 1,2-dehydrocortisone

18. Liquid Pred

19. Deltacortisone

20. Deltacortone

21. Ancortone

22. Colisone

23. Decortancyl

24. Deltison

25. Encortone

26. Prednilonga

27. Prednison

28. Servisone

29. Lodotra

30. Prednicen-m

31. Delta-dome

32. Di-adreson

33. Bicortone

34. Cortidelt

35. Dekortin

36. Diadreson

37. Enkorton

38. Hostacortin

39. Lisacort

40. Panafcort

41. Prednisonum

42. Prednizon

43. Pronison

44. Ultracortene

45. Zenadrid

46. Adasone

47. Cotone

48. Deltra

49. Juvason

50. Nurison

51. Winpred

52. Wojtab

53. Prednisone Intensol

54. Delta-cortelan

55. 17,21-dihydroxypregna-1,4-diene-3,11,20-trione

56. Delta E

57. In-sone

58. Cartancyl

59. Deltisona

60. Sk-prednisone

61. Prednisona

62. Prednisonum [inn-latin]

63. Prednisona [inn-spanish]

64. 1,4-pregnadiene-17alpha,21-diol-3,11,20-trione

65. Pregna-1,4-diene-3,11,20-trione, 17,21-dihydroxy-

66. Prednisone Anhydrous

67. Deltisone

68. Rayos

69. Zenadrid (veterinary)

70. Fernisone

71. Prednisone Tablets

72. 1-dehydrocortisone

73. 3en3hg4wsw

74. Nsc-10023

75. Nci-c04897

76. Nsc 10023

77. U 6020

78. Prednidib

79. Chebi:8382

80. Panasol

81. Delta-cortisone

82. Sone

83. Zenadrid [veterinary]

84. Apo-prednisone

85. Novoprednisone

86. Dellacort

87. Deltacortene

88. Econosone

89. Incocortyl

90. Parmenison

91. Predeltin

92. Prednicorm

93. Prednicort

94. Prednicot

95. Prednitone

96. Prednovister

97. Retrocortine

98. Dacorten

99. Fiasone

100. Pehacort

101. Presone

102. Delta Cortelan

103. Nisona

104. Nizon

105. Dellacort A

106. Vb0r961hzt

107. Me-korti

108. Origen Prednisone

109. (8s,9s,10r,13s,14s,17r)-17-hydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-6,7,8,9,12,14,15,16-octahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-3,11-dione

110. .delta.-cortisone

111. 1-cortisone

112. .delta.1-cortisone

113. Delta-1-cortisone

114. Ncgc00090766-01

115. Precort

116. .delta.1-dehydrocortisone

117. Dsstox_cid_1185

118. Meticorten (veterinary)

119. Delta(sup 1)-cortisone

120. Delta-1-dehydrocortisone

121. Dsstox_rid_75997

122. Dsstox_gsid_21185

123. (8s,9s,10r,13s,14s,17r)-17-hydroxy-17-(2-hydroxyacetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,10,12,13,14,15,16,17-decahydro-3h-cyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-3,11(6h)-dione

124. Delta(sup 1)-dehydrocortisone

125. Lodtra

126. Smr000718760

127. Smr001227202

128. Delta E.

129. Ccris 2646

130. Hsdb 3168

131. Mls002638114

132. Einecs 200-160-3

133. Mfcd00003608

134. Unii-vb0r961hzt

135. Prednisone [usp:inn:ban]

136. 1,4-pregnadiene-17-alpha,21-diol-3,11,20-trione

137. Ai3-52939

138. .delta.sone

139. .delta.-cortone

140. .delta.-cortelan

141. Cas-53-03-2

142. Deltadehydrocortisone

143. Prednisone(adasone)

144. Prestwick_405

145. .delta. E

146. .delta.-e

147. Prednisone (adasone)

148. Prednisone, >=98%

149. Prednisone [mi]

150. Prednisone [inn]

151. Prestwick0_000077

152. Prestwick1_000077

153. Prestwick2_000077

154. Prestwick3_000077

155. Prednisone [hsdb]

156. Prednisone [iarc]

157. .delta.(sup1)-cortisone

158. P1276

159. Modified-release Prednisone

160. Prednisone [vandf]

161. Chembl635

162. Prednisone [mart.]

163. Schembl3288

164. Prednisone [usp-rs]

165. Prednisone [who-dd]

166. Bspbio_000293

167. Mls001061265

168. Mls001304073

169. Mls001335907

170. Mls001335908

171. Mls002154191

172. Mls002207083

173. Mls002548880

174. Spbio_002214

175. Bpbio1_000323

176. Gtpl7096

177. Megxm0_000443

178. Prednisone [green Book]

179. Dtxsid4021185

180. Prednisone [orange Book]

181. Acon0_000082

182. Acon1_000297

183. Prednisone [ep Monograph]

184. Hms1568o15

185. Hms2090j13

186. Hms2095o15

187. Hms2231i24

188. Hms3039k07

189. Hms3259i09

190. Hms3712o15

191. Hms3884c04

192. Prednisone [usp Monograph]

193. 1,21-diol-3,11,20-trione

194. Bcp09049

195. Hy-b0214

196. Nsc10023

197. Prednisone Tablets [usp-rs]

198. Pregna-1,4-diene-3,11,20-trione Monohydrate, 17,21-dihydroxy-

199. Zinc3875357

200. Tox21_111014

201. Tox21_201564

202. Tox21_300196

203. Bdbm50550126

204. Lmst02030180

205. S1622

206. Akos005267096

207. Akos007930684

208. Prednisone 100 Microg/ml In Methanol

209. Tox21_111014_1

210. Ccg-220077

211. Db00635

212. Nc00475

213. Ncgc00090766-02

214. Ncgc00090766-03

215. Ncgc00090766-04

216. Ncgc00090766-05

217. Ncgc00090766-07

218. Ncgc00254096-01

219. Ncgc00259113-01

220. Prednisone, Tested According To Ph.eur.

221. Ac-11112

222. As-11685

223. Nci60_000008

224. Prednisone 100 Microg/ml In Acetonitrile

225. Prednisolone Impurity B [ep Impurity]

226. Pregna-1,11,20-trione, 17,21-hydroxy-

227. En300-52605

228. Pregna-1,11,20-trione, 17,21-dihydroxy-

229. C07370

230. 003p608

231. Q424972

232. Sr-01000837536

233. Sr-01000837536-3

234. Brd-k85883481-001-04-2

235. Brd-k85883481-001-08-3

236. Brd-k85883481-001-25-7

237. 17alpha,21-dihydroxypregna-1,4-diene-3,11,20-trione

238. Wln: L E5 B666 Cv Ov Ahttt&j A1 E1 Fv1q Fq

239. Prednisone, British Pharmacopoeia (bp) Reference Standard

240. Prednisone, European Pharmacopoeia (ep) Reference Standard

241. Prednisone, United States Pharmacopeia (usp) Reference Standard

242. Prednisone, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material

243. Prednisone For Peak Identification, European Pharmacopoeia (ep) Reference Standard

244. Prednisone, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Traceable To Usp, Pheur And Bp

245. (8s,10r,13s,17r)-17-hydroxy-17-(2-hydroxy-acetyl)-10,13-dimethyl-7,8,9,10,12,13,14,15,16,17-decahydro-6h-cyclopenta[a]phenanthrene-3,11-dione

246. Prednisone Solution, 100 Mug/ml In Acetonitrile, Ampule Of 1 Ml, Certified Reference Material

2.4 Create Date
2005-03-26
3 Chemical and Physical Properties
Molecular Weight 358.4 g/mol
Molecular Formula C21H26O5
XLogP31.5
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count2
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count5
Rotatable Bond Count2
Exact Mass358.17802393 g/mol
Monoisotopic Mass358.17802393 g/mol
Topological Polar Surface Area91.7 Ų
Heavy Atom Count26
Formal Charge0
Complexity764
Isotope Atom Count0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count6
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count0
Covalently Bonded Unit Count1
4 Drug and Medication Information
4.1 Drug Information
1 of 6  
Drug NamePrednisone
PubMed HealthPrednisone (By mouth)
Drug ClassesEndocrine-Metabolic Agent, Immune Suppreant
Drug LabelEach tablet for oral administration contains:Prednisone.............................................................1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mgEach 5 mL of oral solution for oral administration contains:Prednisone........................
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormTablet; Solution
RouteOral
Strength2.5mg; 1mg; 5mg; 50mg; 10mg; 5mg/5ml; 20mg
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyVintage Pharms; Jubilant Cadista; Hikma Pharms; Roxane; Watson Labs; Mutual Pharm; Contract Pharmacal

2 of 6  
Drug NamePrednisone intensol
PubMed HealthPrednisone (By mouth)
Drug ClassesEndocrine-Metabolic Agent, Immune Suppreant
Drug LabelEach tablet for oral administration contains: Prednisone.....................................................1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mgEach 5 mL of oral solution for oral administration contains: Prednisone..............................
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormSolution
RouteOral
Strength5mg/ml
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyRoxane

3 of 6  
Drug NameRayos
Drug LabelThe active ingredient in RAYOS is prednisone (a corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic. The molecular formula for prednisone is C21H26O5. The chemical name for prednisone is 17,21-dihydrox...
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormTablet, delayed release
RouteOral
Strength1mg; 5mg; 2mg
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyHorizon Pharma

4 of 6  
Drug NamePrednisone
PubMed HealthPrednisone (By mouth)
Drug ClassesEndocrine-Metabolic Agent, Immune Suppreant
Drug LabelEach tablet for oral administration contains:Prednisone.............................................................1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mgEach 5 mL of oral solution for oral administration contains:Prednisone........................
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormTablet; Solution
RouteOral
Strength2.5mg; 1mg; 5mg; 50mg; 10mg; 5mg/5ml; 20mg
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyVintage Pharms; Jubilant Cadista; Hikma Pharms; Roxane; Watson Labs; Mutual Pharm; Contract Pharmacal

5 of 6  
Drug NamePrednisone intensol
PubMed HealthPrednisone (By mouth)
Drug ClassesEndocrine-Metabolic Agent, Immune Suppreant
Drug LabelEach tablet for oral administration contains: Prednisone.....................................................1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 50 mgEach 5 mL of oral solution for oral administration contains: Prednisone..............................
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormSolution
RouteOral
Strength5mg/ml
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyRoxane

6 of 6  
Drug NameRayos
Drug LabelThe active ingredient in RAYOS is prednisone (a corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic. The molecular formula for prednisone is C21H26O5. The chemical name for prednisone is 17,21-dihydrox...
Active IngredientPrednisone
Dosage FormTablet, delayed release
RouteOral
Strength1mg; 5mg; 2mg
Market StatusPrescription
CompanyHorizon Pharma

4.2 Therapeutic Uses

Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal; Glucocorticoids

National Library of Medicine's Medical Subject Headings. Prednisone. Online file (MeSH, 2016). Available from, as of October 28, 2016: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2016/mesh_browser/MBrowser.html


Prednisone is usually considered the oral glucocorticoid of choice for anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressant effects. Because it has only minimal mineralocorticoid properties, the drug is inadequate alone for the management of adrenocortical insufficiency. If prednisone is used in the treatment of this condition, concomitant therapy with a mineralocorticoid is also required.

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2016; Drug Information 2016. Bethesda, MD. 2016, p. 3122-3


Prednisone tablets and solutions are indicated in the following conditions: Endocrine Disorders: Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice: synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance); congenital adrenal hyperplasia; hypercalcemia associated with cancer; nonsuppurative thyroiditis. /Included in US product label/

NIH; DailyMed. Current Medication Information for Prednisone (Pednisone Tablet) Prednisone (Prednisone Solution) Prednisone Intensol (Prednisone Intensol Solution, Concentrate) (Updated: July 2016). Available from, as of November 22, 2016: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=3115aef0-fd50-4ec8-a064-3effb695f3f2


Prednisone tablets and solutions are indicated in the following conditions: Rheumatic Disorders: As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy), ankylosing spondylitis, acute and subacute bursitis, acute nonspecific tenosynovitis, acute gouty arthritis, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, synovitis of osteoarthritis, epicondylitis. /Included in US product label/

NIH; DailyMed. Current Medication Information for Prednisone (Pednisone Tablet) Prednisone (Prednisone Solution) Prednisone Intensol (Prednisone Intensol Solution, Concentrate) (Updated: July 2016). Available from, as of November 22, 2016: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=3115aef0-fd50-4ec8-a064-3effb695f3f2


For more Therapeutic Uses (Complete) data for PREDNISONE (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.


4.3 Drug Warning

The profound effects of prednisone on the immune system place patients at increased risk of developing infections of various types. Prednisone may mask some of the signs of infection, and may decrease host resistance and interfere with the ability to localize infections. During prednisone therapy, a polymorphonuclear leukocytosis may develop and may give rise to confusion in the diagnosis of infection. This elevation is dose-related.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 302 (1981)


Psychiatric reactions have been reported in 4-36% of patients. These disturbances may take various forms, for example, insomnia, changes in mood or psyche, and psychopathies of the manic-depressive or schizophrenic type.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 302 (1981)


Ophthalmic complications include the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts, and increased intraocular pressure which may lead to glaucoma. In patients with ocular herpes simplex, it may cause corneal perforation.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 302 (1981)


There are numerous endocrine side effects. Most frequent is development of the Cushingoid state. Fatty deposits in the mediastinum causing mediastinal widening may simulate mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhoea, may occur. There may be secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness. The processes of recovery of normal pituitary and adrenal function require about 1 year in some patients. There may be stunted growth and delayed skeletal maturation in children. Prednisone causes decreased carbohydrate tolerance and may unmask the features of latent diabetes.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 301-2 (1981)


For more Drug Warnings (Complete) data for PREDNISONE (38 total), please visit the HSDB record page.


4.4 Drug Indication

Prednisone is indicated as an anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drug for allergic, dermatologic, gastrointestinal, hematologic, ophthalmologic, nervous system, renal, respiratory, rheumatologic, infectious, endocrine, or neoplastic conditions as well as in organ transplant.


5 Pharmacology and Biochemistry
5.1 Pharmacology

Corticosteroids bind to the glucocorticoid receptor, inhibiting pro-inflammatory signals, and promoting anti-inflammatory signals. Prednisone has a short duration of action as the half life is 2-3 hours. Corticosteroids have a wide therapeutic window as patients make require doses that are multiples of what the body naturally produces. Patients taking corticosteroids should be counselled regarding the risk of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression and increased susceptibility to infections.


5.2 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal

Antineoplastic agents that are used to treat hormone-sensitive tumors. Hormone-sensitive tumors may be hormone-dependent, hormone-responsive, or both. A hormone-dependent tumor regresses on removal of the hormonal stimulus, by surgery or pharmacological block. Hormone-responsive tumors may regress when pharmacologic amounts of hormones are administered regardless of whether previous signs of hormone sensitivity were observed. The major hormone-responsive cancers include carcinomas of the breast, prostate, and endometrium; lymphomas; and certain leukemias. (From AMA Drug Evaluations Annual 1994, p2079) (See all compounds classified as Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal.)


Glucocorticoids

A group of CORTICOSTEROIDS that affect carbohydrate metabolism (GLUCONEOGENESIS, liver glycogen deposition, elevation of BLOOD SUGAR), inhibit ADRENOCORTICOTROPIC HORMONE secretion, and possess pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. They also play a role in fat and protein metabolism, maintenance of arterial blood pressure, alteration of the connective tissue response to injury, reduction in the number of circulating lymphocytes, and functioning of the central nervous system. (See all compounds classified as Glucocorticoids.)


Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Substances that reduce or suppress INFLAMMATION. (See all compounds classified as Anti-Inflammatory Agents.)


5.3 FDA Pharmacological Classification
5.3.1 Active Moiety
PREDNISONE
5.3.2 FDA UNII
VB0R961HZT
5.3.3 Pharmacological Classes
Corticosteroid [EPC]; Corticosteroid Hormone Receptor Agonists [MoA]
5.4 ATC Code

A - Alimentary tract and metabolism

A07 - Antidiarrheals, intestinal antiinflammatory/antiinfective agents

A07E - Intestinal antiinflammatory agents

A07EA - Corticosteroids acting locally

A07EA03 - Prednisone


H - Systemic hormonal preparations, excl. sex hormones and insulins

H02 - Corticosteroids for systemic use

H02A - Corticosteroids for systemic use, plain

H02AB - Glucocorticoids

H02AB07 - Prednisone


5.5 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

Absorption

Oral prednisone has a Tmax of 2 hours, while the delayed-release formulation has a Tmax of 6-6.5 hours. A 5mg dose of prednisone has an AUC of 572mL/min/1.73m2, a 20mg dose of prednisone has an AUC of 1034mL/min/1.73m2, and a 50mg dose of prednisone has an AUC of 2271mL/min/1.73m2. Data regarding the Cmax of prednisone is not readily available.


Route of Elimination

Prednisone is excreted mainly in the urine as sulfate and glucuronide conjugates.


Volume of Distribution

Data regarding the volume of distribution for prednisone is not readily available. However, a 0.15mg/kg dose of prednisolone has a volume of distribution of 29.3L, while a 0.30mg/kg dose has a volume of distribution of 44.2L.


Clearance

Data regarding the clearance of prednisone is not readily available. A 5.5g/h/kg infusion of prednisolone has an average clearance of 0.0660.12L/h/kg, while a 0.150.03L/h/kg infusion has an average clearance of 0.15L/h/kg.


Thirty minutes after iv administration of (3)H-prednisone to a monkey, the concentration of prednisone was highest in the kidney. The drug was also found in the liver, spleen, lung, small intestine, serum and bile. The concentration of prednisolone was highest in the liver. It was also found in the kidney, pancreas, spleen, lung, small intestine, serum and bile.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 300 (1981)


Prednisone is readily absorbed from the gut. Serum concentrations of prednisone and prednisolone, its active metabolite, have been found to be maximal 1 hour after oral administration of a 5-mg tablet of prednisone to beagle dogs. Following both ip and oral administration of prednisone to mice, serum levels of prednisone, prednisolone and other metabolites were maximal at 15 min. These levels were higher in mice given ip injections of prednisone than in those receiving the same doses by the oral route. Oral administration of prednisone to dogs and monkeys led to serum levels comparable with those following iv injections, but individual variations were relatively large.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 299 (1981)


Prednisone is readily absorbed from the gut. In a series of 22 normal subjects, the mean peak serum concentration was 930 ug/L (range, 508-1579) following oral administration of a 50 mg tablet.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 303 (1981)


The protein binding characteristics of prednisone and prednisolone, alone and together, in human and rabbit plasma and human serum albumin, are reported. The kinetics of prednisolone binding were nonlinear and those of prednisone were linear in both human and rabbit plasma; prednisone binding was linear with human serum albumin, although to a lesser degree. It is suggested that prednisone binds to proteins other than albumin in plasma. Binding of prednisone was not influenced by prednisolone. The results support the hypothesis that the protein binding characteristics of prednisone and prednisolone do not explain the reported nonlinear pharmacokinetics of prednisone.

PMID:3593903 Ferry JJ, Wagner JG; Biopharm Drug Dispos 8 (3): 261-72 (1987)


Administration of physiologic doses unlikely to adversely affect infant. FDA Category: C (C = Studies in laboratory animals have revealed adverse effects on the fetus (teratogenic, embryocidal, etc.) but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. The benefits from use of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite its potential risks, or there are no laboratory animal studies or adequate studies in pregnant women.) /Adrenocorticosteroids/ /from table II/

Stockton, D.L. and A.S. Paller. J Am Acad Dermatol 23 (1):87-103 (1990)


5.6 Metabolism/Metabolites

Prednisoneis metabolized to 17,21-dihydroxy-pregnan-1,4,6-trien-3,11,30-trione (M-XVII), 20-dihydro-prednisone (M-V), 6hydroxy-prednisone (M-XII), 6-hydroxy-prednisone (M-XIII), or 20-dihydro-prednisone (M-IV).20-dihydro-prednisone is metabolized to 17,20,21-trihydroxy-5-pregn-1-en-3,11-dione(M-XVIII). Prednison is reversibly metabolized to [prednisolone].Prednisolone is metabolized to 6-prednisolone (M-XI), 20-dihydro-prednisolone (M-III), 20-dihydro-prednisolone (M-II), 6hydroxy-prednisolone (M-VII), or 6hydroxy-prednisolone(M-VI).6hydroxy-prednisolone is metabolized to 6,11,17,20,21-pentahydroxypregnan-1,4-diene-3-one (M-X).6hydroxy-prednisolone is metabolized to 6,11,17,20,21-pentahydroxypregnan-1,4-diene-3-one (M-VIII), 6,11,17,20,21-pentahydroxypregnan-1,4-diene-3-one (M-IX), and 6,11,17,21-tetrahydroxy-5-pregn-1-en-3,20-dione (M-XIV).MVIII is metabolized to 6,11,17,20,21-pentahydroxy-5-pregn-1-en-3-one (M-XV) and then to MXIV, while MIX is metabolized to 6,11,17,20,21-pentahydroxy-5-pregn-1-en-3-one (M-XVI) and then to MXIV.These metabolites and their glucuronide conjugates are excreted predominantly in the urine.


In one study after an oral dose of prednisone, the plasma prednisolone concentration peaked between 60 and 120 min and then declined exponentially. After rapid iv injection of steroid, the plasma prednisolone concentration peaked within 10 to 20 min. An initial rapid distribution phase succeeded by a slower decay phase was expressed by a biphasic exponential disappearance curve of the plasma prednisolone concentration versus time. Plasma prednisolone concentrations achieved with an oral dose of prednisone were in the same range as those obtained during the second phase after iv administration.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 303 (1981)


Reduction of the 11-oxo to the 11alpha-hydroxyl group by the enzyme 11beta-hydroxydehydrogenase converts prednisone to prednisolone, its biologically active form. This reaction takes place mainly in the liver, and may proceed satisfactorily even in the presence of liver disease

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 303 (1981)


In vitro, prednisone is converted to prednisolone by liver, lung and renal tissue. Conversely, prednisolone is converted to prednisone by renal tissue.

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 300 (1981)


... The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of these corticosteroids on the expression of several forms of cytochromes p450, including p450 1A2, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A, and on cyclosporin A oxidase activity in human liver. For this purpose, human hepatocytes prepared from lobectomies were maintained in culture in a serum-free medium, in collagen-coated dishes, for 96-144 hr, in the absence or presence of 50-100 uM corticosteroids, rifampicin, or dexamethasone. To mimic more closely the current clinical protocol, hepatocyte cultures were also co-treated with corticosteroids and cyclosporin A or ketoconazole (a selective inhibitor of cytochromes p450 3A). Cyclosporin A oxidase activity, intracellular retention of cyclosporin A oxidized metabolites within hepatocytes, accumulation of cytochromes p450 proteins and corresponding messages, and de novo synthesis and half-lives of these cytochromes p450 were measured in parallel in these cultures. Our results, obtained from seven different hepatocyte cultures, showed that 1) dexamethasone and prednisone, but not prednisolone or methylprednisolone, were inducers of cytochrome p450 3A, at the level of protein and mRNA accumulation, as well as of cyclosporin A oxidase activity, known to be predominantly catalyzed by these cytochromes p450; 2) although corticosteroids are known to be metabolized in human liver, notably by cytochrome p450 3A, partial or total inhibition of this cytochromes p450 by cyclosporin or ketoconazole, respectively, did not affect the inducing efficiency of these molecules; 3) corticosteroids did not affect the half-life of cytochrome p450 3A or the accumulation of other forms of cytochromes p450, including 1A2, 2D6, and 2E1; 4) chronic treatment of cells with cyclosporin did not affect cytochrome p450 3A accumulation; 5) corticosteroids were all competitive inhibitors of cyclosporin A oxidase in human liver microsomes, with Ki values of 61 + or - 12, 125 + or - 25, 190 + or - 38, and 210 + or - 42 uM for dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone, respectively; and 6) chronic treatment of cells with corticosteroids did not influence the excretion of oxidized metabolites of cyclosporin from the cells.

PMID:1614409 Pichard L et al; Mol Pharmacol 41 (6): 1047-55 (1992)


5.7 Biological Half-Life

Prednisone and its active metabolite [prednisolone] have half lives of 2-3 hours from both immediate and delayed release preparations.


In a series of 22 normal subjects, the mean peak serum concentration was 930 ug/L (range, 508-1579) following oral administration of a 50 mg tablet. The overall mean serum half-life was 2.95 hours

IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V26 303 (1981)


5.8 Mechanism of Action

Prednisone is first metabolized in the liver to its active form, prednisolone, a glucocorticoid agonist corticosteroid. The short term effects of corticosteroids are decreased vasodilation and permeability of capillaries, as well as decreased leukocyte migration to sites of inflammation. Corticosteroids binding to the glucocorticoid receptor mediates changes in gene expression that lead to multiple downstream effects over hours to days. Glucocorticoids inhibit neutrophil apoptosis and demargination; they inhibit phospholipase A2, which decreases the formation of arachidonic acid derivatives; they inhibit NF-Kappa B and other inflammatory transcription factors; they promote anti-inflammatory genes like interleukin-10. Lower doses of corticosteroids provide an anti-inflammatory effect, while higher doses are immunosuppressive. High doses of glucocorticoids for an extended period bind to the mineralocorticoid receptor, raising sodium levels and decreasing potassium levels.


In physiologic doses, corticosteroids are administered to replace deficient endogenous hormones. In larger (pharmacologic) doses, glucocorticoids decrease inflammation by stabilizing leukocyte lysosomal membranes, preventing release of destructive acid hydrolases from leukocytes; inhibiting macrophage accumulation in inflamed areas; reducing leukocyte adhesion to capillary endothelium; reducing capillary wall permeability and edema formation; decreasing complement components; antagonizing histamine activity and release of kinin from substrates; reducing fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition, and subsequent scar tissue formation; and possibly by other mechanisms as yet unknown. The drugs suppress the immune response by reducing activity and volume of the lymphatic system, producing lymphocytopenia, decreasing immunoglobulin and complement concentrations, decreasing passage of immune complexes through basement membranes, and possibly by depressing reactivity of tissue to antigen-antibody interactions. Glucocorticoids stimulate erythroid cells of bone marrow, prolong survival time of erythrocytes and platelets, and produce neutrophilia and eosinopenia. Glucocorticoids promote gluconeogenesis, redistribution of fat from peripheral to central areas of the body, and protein catabolism, which results in negative nitrogen balance. They reduce intestinal absorption and increase renal excretion of calcium. /Corticosteroids/

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 2016; Drug Information 2016. Bethesda, MD. 2016, p. 3097


Glucocorticoids are capable of suppressing the inflammatory process through numerous pathways. They interact with specific intracellular receptor proteins in target tissues to alter the expression of corticosteroid-responsive genes. Glucocorticoid-specific receptors in the cell cytoplasm bind with steroid ligands to form hormone-receptor complexes that eventually translocate to the cell nucleus. There these complexes bind to specific DNA sequences and alter their expression. The complexes may induce the transcription of mRNA leading to synthesis of new proteins. Such proteins include lipocortin, a protein known to inhibit PLA2a and thereby block the synthesis of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and PAF. Glucocorticoids also inhibit the production of other mediators including AA metabolites such as COX, cytokines, the interleukins, adhesion molecules, and enzymes such as collagenase. /Glucocorticoids/

Kahn, C.M. (Ed.); The Merck Veterinary Manual 9th ed. Merck & Co. Whitehouse Station, NJ. 2005, p. 2128