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Compare Pred Forte vs. Cortef

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Prednisolone (Pred Forte)
    Hydrocortisone (Cortef)
  • Prednisolone (Pred Forte)
    Hydrocortisone (Cortef)

  • Summary of Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Prednisolone (Pred Forte) is a steroid used in the eye. It works well to control allergic reactions and inflammation (swelling) in the eye.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Oral hydrocortisone (Cortef) is a corticosteroid. It's taken by adults and children to treat health conditions related to inflammation or an overactive immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis and certain skin conditions. Hydrocortisone (Cortef) comes as a tablet that you take by mouth daily, though dosing can also differ depending on your condition. There's a separate intravenous or IV form called Solu-Cortef. Some side effects of hydrocortisone (Cortef) include adrenal insufficiency and weight gain. Hydrocortisone (Cortef) is available as both a brand-name and generic medication.

  • Indications of Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Indications for
    •Eye injury
    •Swelling or allergies in the eye
    Indications for

    Hydrocortisone (Cortef) is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Some examples include:

    •Allergies or allergic reactions
    •Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
    •Skin conditions (e.g. psoriasis)
    •Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
    •Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)
    •Conditions related to red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
    •Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia)
    •Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
    •Eye conditions
    •Lung conditions
    •Kidney conditions
    •Lupus erythematosus

  • Pros and Cons of Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Works in the eye to relieve symptoms without having the side effects of oral steroids
    •Works quickly to relieve symptoms
    •Available in generic form
    Cons
    •Depending on the condition, you might have to use the eye drops up to 4 times a day
    •Long-term use will require your healthcare provider to monitor your eyes more regularly.
    •Contains sulfite, which is not good for those with allergies to sulfite
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Not as strong as other corticosteroids, making it less likely to cause side effects
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, like tiredness and dizziness
    •Can cause weight gain
    •Long-term use in children can cause stunted growth

  • Common Side Effects of Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Common Side Effects for
    •Burning, stinging
    •Feeling like there's something in your eye
    •Changes in taste
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)
    •High blood pressure
    •High blood sugar
    •Muscle weakness
    •Stomach pain
    •Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    •Changes in your mood
    •Headache
    •Acne
    •Weight gain and greater appetite

  • Warnings of Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Common Side Effects for
    •Eye Problems
    •Severe Allergic Reactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Reduced adrenal gland function
    •Greater risk of infections
    •Eye problems
    •Behavior changes
    •Bone problems with long-term use
    •Stomach problems
    •Changes in heart and kidney function

  • Prices with our coupons for Pred Forte vs. Cortef

    Learn more about Prednisolone
    Learn more about Hydrocortisone

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