Prednisolone Tablets and Liquid

What are prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Prednisolone is a steroid medicine that reduces inflammation and regulates the immune system. It’s only available on prescription and is used for many different conditions. Prednisolone is available as tablets, dissolvable tablets, and oral liquid. It is known by brand names like Deltacortril, Deltastab, Dilacort, and Pevanti. It should only be used under medical supervision[1].

What are prednisolone tablets and liquid used for?

Prednisolone is prescribed to treat a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These include[1]:

• Allergies (e.g. hay fever, allergic reactions) 

• Asthma and COPD 

• Autoimmune diseases (e.g. lupus, rheumatoid arthritis) 

• Skin problems (e.g. eczema, psoriasis) 

• Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g. Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) 

• Blood disorders (e.g. anaemia, immune thrombocytopenia) 

• Certain cancers 

• To prevent organ rejection after transplants 

• Adrenal insufficiency (e.g. Addison’s disease)

How do prednisolone tablets and liquid work?

Prednisolone mimics the action of cortisol, a hormone your body makes naturally. It[1]: 

• Reduces inflammation 

• Suppresses overactive immune responses 

• Helps relieve redness, swelling, and allergic symptoms 

This makes it effective for both short-term flare-ups and longer-term disease control. 

Who can take prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Prednisolone may be prescribed for[1]: 

• Adults and children with appropriate conditions 

• People with adrenal insufficiency 

It may not be suitable for those who[1]: 

• Have an allergy to prednisolone 

• Have an infection or unhealed wounds 

• Have been in contact with someone with shingles, chickenpox, or measles 

• Have recently had a vaccination or are due to soon 

• Have liver or kidney problems 

• Have heart failure or recently had a heart attack 

• Have high blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, glaucoma, underactive thyroid, or osteoporosis 

• Serious mental health history 

• Have ever had a stomach ulcer 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].

What is the typical dosage of prednisolone tablets and liquid?

The strength of the tablets ranges from 1mg to 25mg. There are two strengths of liquid with either 1mg or 10mg in every 1ml. Your dose of prednisolone varies depending on the condition and medical history, but it typically ranges from 5mg to 60mg per day for adults[1]. 

How do you take prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Prednisolone should be taken consistently each day. Follow these tips[1]:

• Swallow tablets whole with water 

• Use the measuring device provided with liquid formulations 

• Take in the morning, with or after food to reduce stomach irritation 

• Avoid taking your dose later in the day as it may affect sleep 

• Avoid eating liquorice, which can interfere with the medicine’s effects 

Can you stop taking prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Do not stop taking prednisolone suddenly if you have been taking it for more than three weeks or at a high dose. Long term steroid use can lead to your adrenal glands, organs that produce your body's own natural steroid hormones, to produce less of them. This is called adrenal suppression and if you stop taking your prednisolone too quickly, you may experience serious withdrawal symptoms such as extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting. To avoid this, your doctor will help you gradually reduce the dose when your treatment has finished [1].

What do you do if you take too much prednisolone tablets and liquid?

The severity of symptoms experienced from taking too much prednisolone depends on the individual, how high a dose you have taken and for how long.  

Mild symptoms of taking too much prednisolone include nausea and vomiting, headaches, dizziness and changes to mood. 

If you suspect you have taken an overdose of prednisolone, seek urgent medical attention.

What do you do if you forget to take prednisolone tablets and liquid?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take two doses at the same time[1]. 

How do I store prednisolone tablets and liquid?

To keep your medicine safe[1]:

• Store below 25°C, away from heat and light 

• Keep it out of sight and reach of children 

• Do not use past the expiry date 

• Return unused medicine to a pharmacy 

What medicines can’t you take with prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Prednisolone can interact with many other medicines. Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you’re taking[1][2]: 

• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen 

• Antibiotics (e.g. rifampicin) 

• Antifungals (e.g. ketoconazole) 

• Antivirals (e.g. ritonavir) 

• Diabetes medications 

• Blood thinners like warfarin or apixaban 

• Vaccines (avoid live vaccines while on prednisolone) 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of prednisolone tablets and liquid?

Side effects can vary based on dose and duration. Common side effects include[1]: 

• Weight gain 

• Indigestion 

• Restlessness 

• Increased sweating 

• Mood swings 

• Insomnia 

Serious side effects include[1]: 

• Mental health changes (e.g. depression, mania) 

• Increased infection risk 

• High blood pressure 

• Glaucoma or cataracts 

• Osteoporosis 

• Symptoms of Cushing’s syndrome 

• Growth suppression in children 

• Breathlessness 

• Limb swelling 

• Eyesight changes 

• Bruising or bleeding that is not normal 

• Red or black poo 

Regular reviews and blood tests help monitor these effects. 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2].

Frequently asked questions about prednisolone tablets and liquid

Can I take prednisolone long-term? 
Yes, but only with regular monitoring due to the risk of side effects[1]. 

Can children take prednisolone? 
Yes, but growth and development must be monitored carefully[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol with prednisolone? 
Yes, in moderation – unless your doctor advises otherwise[1]. 

Can I take prednisolone during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
Only under medical advice[1]. 

Does prednisolone affect sleep? 
It can. Take it in the morning to reduce insomnia[1]. 

Do I need a steroid card? 
Yes, if you’re on high doses or long-term treatment[1]. 

Can I get vaccines while taking it? 
Avoid live vaccines – speak to your doctor[1]. 

Can I drive or use machinery with prednisolone? 
Yes, unless you feel unwell – or drowsy[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to prednisolone, visit their website. 

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