Prednisolone for children: dosage and instructions for use

Prednisolone is a drug that is frequently used to treat a range of ailments in kids, including allergies and some autoimmune diseases. It is a member of the corticosteroid drug class, which helps control symptoms and lessen inflammation. It’s critical for your child’s health and wellbeing to know how to use prednisolone correctly if they have been prescribed it.

We’ll look at the suggested dosages of prednisolone for kids in this article, along with how to give it and some things to remember when taking it. We’ll go over the key points so you can safely and effectively follow the recommended course of action. This guide will give you the precise, useful information you need, regardless of whether you’re new to this medication or just need a refresher.

To make things easier for you, we’ve concentrated on clear instructions and common considerations. Let’s explore the specifics of pediatric prednisolone use so you can confidently support your child’s health.

Release form

  • Tablets. Usually they are flat-cylindrical and white, and one pack contains from 10 to 120 tablets (most often polymer bottles of 100 pieces are produced).
  • Ointment, which is used for external treatment. This is a thick white mass placed in aluminum tubes in the amount of 10 g or 15 g.
  • Ampoules with a solution, which can be injected into a muscle or injected into a vein. Such ampoules contain 1 or 2 ml of transparent solution. The liquid can be colorless, yellowish or yellow-greenish. One package includes 3, 5 or more ampoules.

There are no suppositories, drops, capsules, syrups, or other forms of prednisolone available.

Composition

Prednisolone is the active component in all dosage forms of the medication. There are the following dosages available for it:

  • in 1 tablet – 1 mg or 5 mg;
  • in 1 ml of injection solution – 15 mg or 30 mg in the form of sodium phosphate;
  • in 1 gram of ointment – 5 mg.

It is advisable to consult the instructions or packaging of a particular medication to ascertain its precise composition, as different manufacturers use different forms of excipients and make different drugs.

Principle of action

Prednisolone, a synthetic hormone belonging to the glucocorticosteroid family, functions in a manner akin to hormones generated by the adrenal glands.

Such a material

  • stops shock and prevents death in shock;
  • quickly and effectively eliminates the inflammatory process, regardless of its severity and localization;
  • suppresses exudation – active secretion of fluid from inflamed tissues;
  • stops the development of an allergic reaction and eliminates allergy symptoms such as rash, swelling, itching, and others;
  • stops active cell proliferation at the site of injury, thereby preventing the appearance of scars;
  • suppresses the immune system.

Prednisolone is used in situations where other medications have failed to treat life-threatening conditions because of its potent effects and quick onset of all these side effects. When switching out such a medication with another medication is possible, that option ought to be taken.

Moreover, prednisolone possesses the following qualities:

  • stimulation of protein breakdown in tissues and bloodstream, as well as the synthesis of protein molecules in liver cells;
  • increased blood glucose levels;
  • retention of Na+ and water, which causes edema;
  • increased excitability of nerve cells in the brain;
  • reduction in the absorption of potassium in the gastrointestinal tract and stimulation of its excretion from the body;
  • redistribution of fat reserves with an increase in its amount in the upper body;
  • lowering the threshold of convulsive readiness;
  • inhibition of the production of glucocorticoids, as well as FSH and TSH.

Although these side effects are not therapeutic, they should be considered as a consequence of the drug.

Indications

The following may be the basis for prescribing Prednisolone tablets and injections:

  • toxic, traumatic, burn or other shocks;
  • severe acute allergic reactions (the drug is prescribed for Quincke"s edema, urticaria and anaphylactic shock);
  • cerebral edema caused by various reasons;
  • severe bronchial asthma and asthmatic status;
  • rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and other systemic diseases that affect connective tissue;
  • inflammation of the joints of various origins (the drug is injected into the joint or given in tablets);

  • acute adrenal dysfunction;
  • allergic conjunctivitis;
  • uveitis and other inflammatory eye diseases;
  • agranulocytosis, acute leukemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic anemia and other pathologies of the hematopoietic system;
  • organ transplantation;
  • acute hepatitis or hepatic coma;
  • thyrotoxic crisis or thyroiditis;
  • myeloma disease;
  • sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, aspiration pneumonia and other severe lung diseases;
  • poisoning with alkalis and other cauterizing liquids.

For the treatment of eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, toxicoderma, psoriasis, and other skin conditions, prednisolone ointment is prescribed. This version is also recommended for keloid scars, bursitis, and tendovaginitis.

A corticosteroid called prednisolone is frequently prescribed to kids to treat a range of ailments, including allergies and asthma. For safety and efficacy, dosage and administration must be done correctly. This article will explain how to use prednisolone for kids, including dosage recommendations, how to give the drug, and crucial safety tips to make sure your kid’s health is taken care of.

From what age is it prescribed?

Prednisolone treatment for children has no age restrictions; however, because it can adversely affect a child’s growth processes, this hormone should only be prescribed in the presence of serious indications and under close medical supervision.

Furthermore, it’s critical to remember that this type of medication is only recommended for severe cases, and doctors always aim to prescribe it for the least amount of time and at the lowest possible dose.

Contraindications

There is just one condition that prevents a child from using prednisolone if it is prescribed for vital indications: an intolerance to the medication. However, a physician must pay more attention to many conditions when prescribing prednisolone. These illnesses include glaucoma, severe liver pathologies, endocrine disorders, infections (measles, chickenpox, herpes, tuberculosis, etc.), and numerous gastrointestinal disorders.

The decision to use prednisolone in a child with a serious illness is made on an individual basis.

Side effects

Before receiving injections or tablets of prednisolone, side effects can include the following:

  • vomiting or nausea;
  • decreased activity of the adrenal glands;
  • decreased glucose tolerance;
  • development of Itsenko-Cushing"s syndrome;
  • change in appetite;
  • development of diabetes mellitus (called steroid diabetes);
  • development of erosive esophagitis, bleeding from the wall of the stomach or intestine, as well as steroid ulcer of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • growth retardation;
  • delayed sexual development;
  • irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, bradycardia;
  • bloating;
  • mental disorders, such as depression or paranoia;
  • increased intracranial or intraocular pressure;
  • headaches or insomnia;
  • increased sweating;

Side effects

  • weight gain;
  • eye infection (secondary);
  • appearance of peripheral edema;
  • weakness, fatigue, muscle pain and other symptoms of hypokalemia;
  • appearance of stretch marks or acne;
  • allergic reactions in the form of skin rash, itching or other symptoms;
  • exacerbation of infectious diseases;
  • withdrawal syndrome.

The application of the ointment may result in the development of "stars," burning, acne, excessive dryness, and other skin issues.

The side effects of treating a large area of skin with such Prednisolone will resemble those of receiving injections or taking medication.

Instructions for use

The doctor decides on the type of medication, the necessary dosage, and how long to take Prednisolone, considering a number of variables such as the child’s age, weight in kilograms, the patient’s condition, and the diagnosis. Prednisolone injections can be given intravenously via a dropper or a jet (saline must be added to the medication before injection). When quick medical attention is needed for an acute condition, intravenous injections are used.

When it is not possible to inject the drug into a vein, it is given intramuscularly; as the condition improves, injections are replaced with tablets. If the medication is prescribed for an extended length of time, it should be tapered off gradually with a lower daily dosage. The drug’s cancellation happens more slowly the longer the treatment was administered.

Since glucocorticoids are released in the human body at 6 or 8 a.m., prednisolone tablets are typically administered once during this time. A very large dosage may be split up into multiple doses. In this instance, a larger dose of the medication is administered in the morning, and the remaining quantity is taken at noon. Prednisolone tablets should be taken with meals or right away after eating. A little liquid is used to dilute the medication.

The affected areas are treated with prednisolone ointment one to three times a day.

The medication shouldn’t be used for longer than 14 days or wrapped in a tight bandage.

Prednisolone for inhalation

As with other hormone medications (such as hydrocortisone and dexamethasone), children can receive a prescription for prednisolone inhalations. These procedures are necessary for laryngeal stenosis, laryngitis, or obstructive bronchitis because they reduce swelling, stop spasms, and cure coughing. For manipulations, ampoules containing liquid Prednisolone and an inhaler are used.

Determine the drug’s dosage, how long the course of treatment should last, and how often a given child needs to inhale.

Overdose

When a medication is taken in excess, the effects worsen, including elevated blood pressure and swelling. In cases like this, it’s critical to get medical attention right away.

Interaction with other drugs

Prenisolone treatment requires careful consideration of all other medications, as it is not recommended to take this hormone in combination with many other medications in order to avoid aggravating or intensifying side effects. Diulterics, heart glycosides, phenobarbital, paracetamol, anticoagulants, isoniazide, vitamin D, antacids, and other medications are among those that shouldn’t be taken with prednisolone.

Furthermore, there must be a gap of time between vaccination and glucocorticoid use because prednisone and antiviral vaccines are incompatible.

Terms of sale and storage

Prednisolone is available only with a prescription in all dosage forms. Depending on the manufacturer, 100 5 mg tablets cost between 50 and 115 rubles. The average cost of one tube of ointment containing 15 g of the drug is between 25 and 30 rubles.

Tablets containing prednisolone should be kept at room temperature, while ampoules and ointment should be kept cold. Depending on the form, the shelf life may be two, three, or five years.

The chosen medication’s packaging should make this clear, and if the expiration date has passed, do not use the medication.

Reviews

Reviews regarding the use of prednisolone in pediatric patients vary. Parents who have given this medication positive reviews say it works well for allergies and inflammation. Mothers who have read negative reviews typically lament the frequent occurrence of side effects.

Aspect Details
What is Prednisolone? Prednisolone is a steroid medication used to treat various conditions such as allergies, asthma, and inflammatory diseases.
How is it administered? Prednisolone can be given as a liquid, tablet, or in some cases, as an injection, depending on the condition being treated.
Dosage for Children The dosage varies based on the child"s age, weight, and the condition being treated. Always follow the doctor"s instructions carefully.
Common Dosage Guidelines Typically, the dose ranges from 0.1 to 2 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into several doses.
When to Take Prednisolone is usually taken with food to prevent stomach upset. It is important to take it at the same time each day.
Possible Side Effects Side effects may include upset stomach, mood changes, and increased appetite. Long-term use can have more serious effects.
Important Notes Do not suddenly stop taking Prednisolone without consulting a doctor, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

It is imperative that children using Prednisolone adhere to the recommended dosage and usage guidelines. When taken as directed, this medication can be very helpful in treating a variety of conditions, but safety and efficacy must be ensured.

Always take the medication as prescribed by your child’s physician. The condition being treated, the child’s age, and weight can all affect the dosage. Never change the dosage or frequency without first talking to a doctor as this may result in unintended side effects or diminished efficacy.

Since prednisolone may cause side effects, it’s critical to keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms in your child and report them to your doctor. Frequent check-ups will help guarantee that the medication is functioning as intended and that any possible problems are quickly resolved.

You can effectively manage your child’s condition while minimizing risks by being informed and adhering to your healthcare provider’s guidance. Maintaining open communication with your child’s medical team is essential to achieving the best outcome.

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Svetlana Kozlova

Family consultant and family relationship specialist. I help parents build trusting relationships with their children and each other. I believe that a healthy atmosphere in the home is the key to happiness and harmony, which I share in articles and recommendations.

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