Transplant Unit

Why is this drug prescribed?

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid and belongs to the general class of medicines called ‘steroids’. Steroids are used to treat a number of conditions, for example inflammation, asthma, arthritis and allergic reactions. Steroids are used with other medicines to prevent your body from rejecting the transplanted organ. Prednisolone does not have the same effect as the anabolic steroids used by athletes.

How to take prednisolone

The dose has been worked out especially for you . The amount taken varies between patients and initially depends upon your weight.

It is important to take the prednisolone at the same time each day. It is usually taken once a day, in the morning. Prednisolone can irritate the stomach so always take it with or just after some food.

What to do if you miss a dose

If you forget a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, miss out the forgotten dose and continue as normal. If you do miss a dose or accidentally take a larger dose than recommended let the transplant team know at your next clinic visit.

Possible side effects of prednisolone

As with any medication side effects are possible. This means you may experience some or none of the following side effects:

• Stomach irritation which can sometimes lead to bleeding ulcers. You will be given anti-ulcer medication to help prevent this. Always take prednisolone with or after food. Report to your doctor if you vomit blood or if your stools become blackened.
• Weight Gain, especially around the face. This will decrease as your dose is decreased. Weigh yourself regularly and if you gain weight suddenly in a short period of time notify your doctor. Follow the dietary guidelines.
• High blood glucose (which may lead to Diabetes). Your blood glucose (sugar) levels will be monitored. Again, follow dietary guidelines.
• Mood swings may occur -emotions may swing from very happy to very depressed. Ensure family and friends are aware of this so they can be supportive and understanding.
• Skin changes - acne, delayed healing, papery skin, bruising and muscle weakness or loss. Use strict hygiene when dealing with open sores. Use moisturising barrier creams. Try to avoid knocks and bumps to the skin and follow exercise guidelines.
• Softening of bones (osteoporosis). Eat foods high in calcium or take supplements.
• Salt and fluid retention, this may lead to an increase in blood pressure. Avoid excess salt in your diet - follow dietary guidelines.
• Eyes may be affected . Have regular eye checks.
• Irregular periods may occur in females.
• Increased risk of developing infections may occur with all anti-rejection drugs. Report any signs of infection (e.g. sore throat) to your doctor. Report to your doctor immediately if you come into contact with anyone with chickenpox or if you catch chickenpox within a three month period of stopping treatment.
• Never stop taking your prednisolone without your doctor's instruction.

What else do you need to know?

• Smoking may increase the level of prednisolone so this may increase the risk of side effects
• There are two formulations of prednisolone - plain tablets and enteric coated (ec) tablets. We recommend that you do not take the ec form as the absorption of this from the stomach can sometimes vary.
• You will be supplied with a general information leaflet with the prednisolone tablets, please also read this.
• You will also be given a steroid treatment card which you should always carry with you.

If you are have questions or concerns about prednisolone please do not hesitate to ask the doctor or pharmacist or nurse.

Prednisolone is also known as Deltacortril, Deltastab, Precortisyl, or Prednesol