SteroidPrescription only

Prednisolone

Tablet or syrup

Quick Summary

Prednisolone calms the immune system and reduces swelling.

Asthma and COPD flares
Autoimmune conditions
Nephrotic syndrome and allergic reactions

Medical Uses

Asthma and COPD flares: Short courses.
Autoimmune conditions: Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and others.
Nephrotic syndrome and allergic reactions: As prescribed.

How it's taken

Take in the morning with food. After more than a few weeks, it must be reduced slowly, not stopped suddenly.

Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.

Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.

Common Side Effects

Indigestion

Take with food.

Raised blood sugar

Check if you have diabetes.

Sleep and mood changes

Common.

Interactions

NSAIDs

Increase stomach bleeding risk.

Diabetes medicines

May need adjusting.

Live vaccines

Avoid with high doses.

Critical Warnings

Don't stop suddenly

Black Box Warning: After long use, stopping can be dangerous.

Long-term effects

Weight gain, bone thinning, infections, cataracts and high blood pressure.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.

Related Topics

AsthmaNephrotic SyndromeBell's PalsyCroup