Prednisone

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Prednisone (brand name Deltasone) — Anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant; Systemic corticosteroid (intermediate acting).

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressant.
• Pharmacologic class: Systemic corticosteroid (intermediate acting).

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Suppresses inflammation and immune response across multiple pathways.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset 1 to 2 hours; duration up to 1.5 days.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Biologic effect 18 to 36 hours; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, asthma and COPD flares, allergic reactions, transplant.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: Wide range, 5 to 60 mg PO daily; tapered when used beyond about 2 weeks.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Use lowest effective dose; taper to avoid adrenal crisis.

Safety

• Contraindications: Systemic fungal infection, live vaccines during high-dose therapy.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: NSAIDs (GI bleeding), diuretics (potassium loss), warfarin, vaccines, diabetes drugs (raises glucose), grapefruit (food).
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use only if benefit outweighs risk.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, elevated glucose, fluid retention.
• Serious effects to report: Hyperglycemia, infection, GI bleeding, adrenal suppression, mood or psychotic changes.
• Antidote / reversal: None; taper and supportive care.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Glucose, blood pressure, signs of infection, weight.
• Interventions during therapy: Give with food; never stop abruptly after prolonged use.
• Monitor: Glucose, blood pressure, weight, electrolytes, signs of infection, bone health long term.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Reduced inflammation.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Take with food in the morning; do not stop suddenly; carry steroid information if long term.
• Notify provider if: Signs of infection, black stools, severe mood changes, marked swelling.
• Administration tips: With food, morning dosing; follow the taper exactly.