What are Prednisone and Prednisolone?

Prednisone and Prednisolone are glucocorticoid medications that are prescribed for many uses including reducing inflammation, suppressing the immune system, treating some types of cancer, and as a replacement when the body is not making enough glucocorticoid on its own. They can be beneficial in treating many diseases and disorders but should be given at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time period possible to reduce the chances of adverse effects. 

How They Work

Prednisone and prednisolone are medications that mimic the activity of a naturally occurring hormone produced in the adrenal cortex called cortisol. Glucocorticoids act on almost every part of the body and have a wide range of effects including reducing inflammation, suppressing the immune system, inhibiting healing, altering mood, stimulating appetite, increasing the secretion of gastric acid, weakening muscles, thinning the skin, and more.

In your pet’s liver, prednisone is converted to prednisolone. Pets with severe liver problems are not able to make this conversion effectively, and many veterinarians believe that these pets should only be given prednisolone. Cats also have a limited ability to convert prednisone into prednisolone, so prednisolone is the preferred medication in this species.

Storage Information

Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

Prednisone and Prednisolone Dosage in Dogs and Cats

The correct dosage of prednisone and prednisolone depends on the condition being treated and how the patient responds to the medication. A rule of thumb for dosing prednisone and prednisolone is to use as much as is required but as little as possible to achieve the desired effect. Pets should also be weaned off of prednisone as soon as their condition allows. When dogs and cats have to be on prednisone for an extended period of time, giving the medication every other day or even less frequently if possible can reduce the chances of serious side effects. Common dosages for prednisone and prednisolone in dogs in cats are

• 0.5 mg/lb for anti-inflammatory effects
• 1 mg/lb to suppress the immune system (cats may require even higher doses)