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Prednisone vs. Pred Forte

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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What’S The Difference Between Prednisolone And Prednisone?

Prednisone

 

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prednisolone eye drops

 

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Summary for Prednisone

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.

Indications for Prednisone

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

Pros and Cons for Prednisone

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

Common Side Effects for Prednisone

  • 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

Warnings for Prednisone

  • 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

Summary for Pred Forte

Prescription only

Prednisolone eye drops is a type of steroid eye drop. It helps treat eye inflammation in adults and children. The medication helps relieve symptoms like itchy eye, eye redness, and swelling in the eye. Prednisolone eye drops come as a generic as well as brand names like Pred Forte and Pred Mild. This eye drop is usually used in the affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times a day. Side effects can include temporary burning and stinging in the eye when you put the drops in.

Indications for Pred Forte

Pros and Cons for Pred Forte

Pros

  • Few side effects
  • Approved for both adults and children

Cons

  • Might have to use the eye drops up to 4 times a day
  • Some formulations contain sulfite, so not a good option for people with a sulfite allergy

Common Side Effects for Pred Forte

  • Temporary burning or stinging in the eye
  • Feeling like there's something in your eye

Warnings for Pred Forte

  • Risk of eye infection when used for a long time
  • Risk of eye problems when used for a long time
  • Slow healing of the eye after cataract surgery
  • Severe allergic reaction

Prices with our coupons for Prednisone vs. Pred Forte

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Prednisone10 tablets / 20mg
$8.95-
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Prednisolone Acetate1 eye dropper / 5ml of 1%
$17.70$20.81
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