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Compare Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

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

Key takeaways

Prednisone and methylprednisolone are both corticosteroids used to treat conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation. Prednisone, available under brand names like Rayos and Prednisone Intensol, is taken orally and comes in immediate-release tablets, delayed-release tablets, and an oral liquid. Methylprednisolone, known by brands such as Depo-Medrol, Medrol, and Solu-Medrol, can be taken orally or as an injection. One key difference is that Methylprednisolone is available as an injection, which can be administered in a hospital or at home by a nurse. Both medications can cause similar side effects like weight gain, mood changes, and sleep problems, but Methylprednisolone is also known to cause skin thinning and blurry vision. Additionally, while both medications require a prescription, they are available in lower-cost generic forms. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely when taking either medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms and other risks.

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  • Prednisone
    Prednisolone
  • Prednisone
    Prednisolone

  • Summary of Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth by adults and children to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as allergies and certain skin conditions. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some of the common short-term side effects of prednisone include stomach irritation and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a month or longer, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Oral prednisolone is a corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, in adults and children. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some common short-term side effects of prednisolone include trouble sleeping and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a longer period of time, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system. If you need to stop prednisolone, your healthcare team might need to taper down your dosage slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

  • Indications of Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

    Indications for

    This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

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

    This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune disorders, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. 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 Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Available as a liquid, which is a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medication
    Cons
    •Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
    •Need to taper your dose before stopping (if you took it for more than a couple of weeks)
    •Might raise your risk for infections, bone weakening, and skin problems if used long term
    •Can slow growth in children if they take it for a long period of time
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Available as a liquid that might be easier for children
    Cons
    •Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems
    •Long-term use can cause problems with skin, bone, and eye health.
    •Can raise your risk for infections
    •Need to taper your dose before stopping

  • Common Side Effects of Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)
    •Stomach bloating
    •Muscle weakness
    •Headache
    •Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    •Changes in your mood
    •Larger appetite (possibly leading to weight gain)
    •Higher blood sugar
    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 Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

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

  • Prices with our coupons for Prednisone vs. Prednisolone

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