provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Prednisone Coupon - Prednisone 20mg tablet

prednisone

Generic Deltasone
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Eye Inflammation, Osteoarthritis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Asthma, Leukemia, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Crohn's Disease, Edema, Gout, Organ Transplant, COPD, Multiple Sclerosis, Anaphylaxis, Tuberculosis, Lupus, Chronic ITP, Adrenal Insufficiency
Used for Eczema, Psoriasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Eye Inflammation, Osteoarthritis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Allergic Rhinitis, Skin Allergy, Asthma, Leukemia, Allergic Conjunctivitis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Crohn's Disease, Edema, Gout, Organ Transplant, COPD, Multiple Sclerosis, Anaphylaxis, Tuberculosis, Lupus, Chronic ITP, Adrenal Insufficiency

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication used to treat various conditions in pets, including autoimmune conditions, allergies, Addison’s disease, and certain cancers. It works by reducing inflammation and calming an overactive immune system. It’s commonly prescribed for dogs, but not usually for cats because cats don’t absorb the medication well. It comes in tablet and liquid forms and is given by mouth. Common side effects include increased appetite, thirst, and urination.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Elizabeth Carman, PharmD, FSVHP
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on April 25, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
Paws

For pets

Prednisone can be prescribed or used off-label by a licensed veterinarian for pets. Medications prescribed for pets aren't intended for human use.

Explore pet medicationsView information for human use
basics-icon

What is Prednisone for pets?

What is Prednisone for pets used for?

How Prednisone for pets works

Prednisone is a corticosteroid. It acts like your pet’s natural hormone called cortisol. The medication works by calming down the immune system when it’s too active, which can treat inflammatory conditions like allergies or autoimmune diseases. The medication also replaces natural steroids if your pet’s body isn’t making enough, like in Addison’s disease.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDeltasone
Drug ClassCorticosteroid
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Prednisone essentials

Dog: prednisone: dog owner speaking to vet 1409885427

Prednisone for Dogs: A Steroid That Can Help With Inflammation and Itching

Written by Catherine Barnette, DVM
cat: cat at vet 1325463845

Prednisone and Prednisolone for Cats: Steroids to Treat Inflammation

Written by Sarah J. Wooten, DVM, CVJ
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$10.79(save 85.18%)
GoodRx discount
$1.60
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Prednisone for pets?

The following side effects might get better over time as your pet gets used to the medication. Let your veterinarian know immediately if your pet continues to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Extreme thirst
  • Increased appetite
  • Frequent urination
  • Weight gain
  • Panting
  • Restlessness

Other Side Effects

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Behavior changes

Serious Side Effects

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet experiences any of the following.
  • Stomach or intestinal ulcers: vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, weight loss, black stools
  • Infections: fever, shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness
  • Cushing’s disease: increased thirst, increased appetite, frequent urination, weight gain, tiredness, hair loss, pot belly

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Aggression

agitation

blurred vision

decrease in the amount of urine

dizziness

fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

headache

irritability

mood changes

noisy, rattling breathing

numbness or tingling in the arms or legs

pounding in the ears

shortness of breath

swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs

trouble thinking, speaking, or walking

troubled breathing at rest

weight gain

Incidence not known

Abdominal or stomach cramping or burning (severe)

abdominal or stomach pain

backache

bloody, black, or tarry stools

cough or hoarseness

darkening of the skin

decrease in height

decreased vision

diarrhea

dry mouth

eye pain

eye tearing

facial hair growth in females

fainting

fever or chills

flushed, dry skin

fractures

fruit-like breath odor

full or round face, neck, or trunk

heartburn or indigestion (severe and continuous)

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

loss of appetite

loss of sexual desire or ability

lower back or side pain

menstrual irregularities

muscle pain or tenderness

muscle wasting or weakness

nausea

pain in the back, ribs, arms, or legs

painful or difficult urination

skin rash

sweating

trouble healing

trouble sleeping

unexplained weight loss

unusual tiredness or weakness

vision changes

vomiting

vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Increased appetite

Incidence not known

Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk

acne

dry scalp

lightening of normal skin color

red face

reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin

swelling of the stomach area

thinning of the scalp hair

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Prednisone for pets

thumbs-up

Pros

Treats many different conditions

Most pets only need a short course of medication

Comes in tablet and liquid forms

thumbs-down

Cons

Long-term use can lead to serious side effects

Might need to slowly lower the dose before stopping

Doesn’t work as well as prednisolone in cats

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Prednisone for pets

pharmacist

  • You can give prednisone with food to help lower the chance of an upset stomach.

    • Prednisone can cause trouble sleeping. For dogs, giving the medication in the morning might help them sleep better at night. Since cats are more active at night, it might be better to give it to them in the evening instead.

      • Keep plenty of fresh water available while your pet is taking prednisone. Increased thirst is a common side effect and your pet might drink and urinate more than usual.

        • If your pet takes the liquid form of prednisone, use a measuring spoon or syringe to give the correct dose. Don’t use household spoons since they come in different sizes and might give the wrong amount.

          • Prednisone shouldn’t be given to pregnant animals unless the benefits are greater than the risks. Talk to your vet if your pet becomes pregnant or if you plan to breed your pet while they’re taking this medication.

            • Your pet might need to taper off prednisone — this means starting with a higher dose and slowly lowering it. Follow your vet’s instructions carefully to help prevent withdrawal and keep your pet safe.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Prednisone for pets

              Can you buy prednisone for dogs without a vet prescription?
              No, prednisone requires a prescription from a licensed veterinarian. Your vet needs to monitor your dog for any risks or side effects while they’re taking this medication.
              Is prednisone for dogs the same as for humans?
              Prednisone tablets from your vet or a pharmacy are the same ones used for people. Vets sometimes prescribe human medications off-label for dogs when there’s no approved animal version. But never give this medication to your dog unless your vet tells you to, because the dose for dogs might be very different than for people.
              Is prednisone safe for dogs?
              Prednisone is generally safe for most dogs when prescribed by a licensed veterinarian and given at the correct dose. Like any medication, it can cause side effects, such as increased thirst, hunger, and urination. More serious problems can happen if the medication isn’t used properly or stopped suddenly, so it’s important to follow your vet’s instructions closely. Some dogs shouldn’t take prednisone, especially those with serious infections or stomach problems, so always talk to your vet before starting treatment.
              Can dogs take prednisone long term?
              Dogs can take prednisone long term, but the longer your dog takes it, the higher the risk of side effects. For example, long-term use can raise the chance of Cushing’s disease or stomach ulcers. Also, giving your dog prednisone for more than 2 weeks can weaken the system that helps your dog handle stress. Discuss with your vet about how long your dog can safely take this medication.
              What’s the difference between prednisone and prednisolone for pets?
              The difference between prednisone and prednisolone has to do with how your pet’s liver processes the medication. Prednisone is the prodrug of prednisolone, which means it needs to be converted by the liver into the active form (prednisolone) to work. In most dogs, this conversion works well, so vets can use either medication. But cats have a harder time converting prednisone. Because of this, vets usually give cats prednisolone because it’s already in its active form.
              Can you crush prednisone for pets?
              You can usually crush prednisone tablets, but only if your veterinarian says it’s okay. Crushing the tablet and mixing it with a small amount of food or a treat can make it easier for your pet to take. But don’t crush the delayed-release version of prednisone called Rayos, as it’s designed to release the medication slowly over time.
              GoodRxEducationalIcon

              How to save using GoodRx

              Compare Prices
              1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
              Select your free coupon
              2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
              Show coupon to your pharmacist
              3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
              Get free couponLearn more
              warings-icon

              What are the risks and warnings for Prednisone for pets?

              Prednisone can cause some serious health issues. This risk might be even higher for certain pets. If this worries you, talk to your veterinarian about other options.

              risk-warning

              Stomach or intestinal ulcers

              • Risk factors: Taking other medications that cause stomach or intestinal ulcers

                Prednisone can sometimes cause stomach or intestinal ulcers in pets, especially if taken with other medications that raise your risk for these ulcers. These ulcers can lead to serious problems like vomiting, reduced appetite, diarrhea, or bloody stool. If your pet shows any of these signs, contact your vet right away.

                risk-warning

                Infections

                Prednisone can weaken your pet’s immune system, making it harder for them to fight off infections that normally wouldn’t be a problem. While taking this medication, your pet might be at risk for bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. Contact your vet right away if your pet shows signs of infection, such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, weakness, or confusion.

                risk-warning

                Cushing’s disease

                • Risk factors: Long-term steroid treatment | High doses of prednisone

                  If your pet takes prednisone at a high dose or for a long time, they might be at higher risk for Cushing’s disease. Signs to watch for include drinking and eating more than usual, urinating more often, a round “pot-bellied” stomach, low energy, and hair loss. If you see any of these symptoms, call your vet. They might give you instructions on how to slowly lower the dose. Never stop this medication suddenly since it could cause withdrawal symptoms.

                  dosage

                  Prednisone dosage forms

                  The average cost for 10 tablets of 20mg of Prednisone is $2.40 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 77.77% off the average retail price of $10.79.
                  dose pack
                  Dose pack
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  21 tablets of 5mg1 dose pack$14.07$14.07
                  48 tablets of 5mg1 dose pack$10.95$10.95
                  21 tablets of 10mg1 dose pack$4.63$4.63
                  48 tablets of 10mg1 dose pack$19.64$19.64
                  ml of oral solution
                  Ml of oral solution
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  5mg/5ml50 ml$14.61$0.29
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  1mg90 tablets$11.85$0.13
                  2.5mg30 tablets$4.52$0.15
                  5mg30 tablets$5.40$0.18
                  10mg30 tablets$5.68$0.19
                  20mg10 tablets$2.40$0.24
                  50mg5 tablets$1.60$0.32

                  Typical dosing for Prednisone for pets

                  The dose will depend on your pet’s weight and the condition being treated.

                  • Dogs:

                    • Allergies: The typical dose is 0.5 mg/kg to 1 mg/kg per day given by mouth.

                    • Autoimmune conditions: The typical dose is around 2 mg/kg per day by mouth.

                    • Addison’s disease: The typical dose is less than 0.1 mg/kg to 0.25 mg/kg per day by mouth.

                  • Cats:

                    • See the dosage for prednisolone. Cats usually receive prednisolone instead of prednisone, but if your cat is prescribed prednisone, the dose will likely be similar to the prednisolone dose.

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Prednisone and other drugs for pets

                  Prednisone might interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your veterinarian know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that your pet is currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Prednisone. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Prednisone cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                  Prednisone (generic)
                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $1.60

                  (save 85.18%)
                  View prices & coupons
                  contraindications-icon

                  Prednisone contraindications for pets

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a pet should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If your pet has any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to your pet, let your veterinarian know because Prednisone will not be safe for your pet to take.

                  • Fungal infections spread throughout the body

                  • Stomach or intestinal ulcers

                  • Untreated Cushing’s disease

                  images

                  Prednisone images

                  White Round 54 760 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "54 760".White Round 54 760 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  Peach Round Dan Dan And 5443 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Peach, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Dan Dan" And "5443".Peach Round Dan Dan And 5443 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  Peach Round V And 50 92 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Peach, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "50 92" And "V".Peach Round V And 50 92 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  Peach Round Tl 175 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Peach, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Tl 175".Peach Round Tl 175 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  White Round Ce 127 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Ce 127".White Round Ce 127 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  White Round Ce 127 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Ce 127".White Round Ce 127 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  White Round E 173 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "E 173".White Round E 173 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  White Round 060 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet
                  This medicine is White, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "060".White Round 060 - Prednisone 20mg Tablet

                  Get savings updates for Prednisone

                  Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Prednisone and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                  By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  Blois, S. (2025). Gastrointestinal ulcers in small animals. Merck Manual Veterinary Manual.

                  Del Baldo, F., et al. (2024). Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis recovery after intermediate-acting glucocorticoid treatment in client-owned dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

                  Edwards, S. H. (2024). Corticosteroids in animals. Merck Manual Veterinary Manual.

                  View All References (6)

                  Garden, O. A., et al. (2019). ACVIM consensus statement on the diagnosis of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in dogs and cats. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

                  Horizon Therapeutics USA, Inc. (2024). Rayos- prednisone tablet, delayed release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  Kaplan, J. L., et al. (2018). Multiple midline defects identified in a litter of golden retrievers following gestational administration of prednisone and doxycycline: A case series. BioMed Central Veterinary Research.

                  Maharaj, N. (2024). Lymphoma in dogs: Signs, symptoms, treatments. American Kennel Club.

                  Olivry, T., et al. (2018). Cutaneous lupus erythematosus in dogs: A comprehensive review. BMC Veterinary Research.

                  Plumb’s Veterinary Medication Guides. (2021). Prednisolone / Prednisone.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                  Was this page helpful?

                  Browse medications

                  View All

                  Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.