What it means
An oral corticosteroidkor-tih-koh-STER-oydA drug that acts like the hormones of the adrenal glands, used mainly to calm inflammation and the immune system.cortic/o cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal gland)-oid likeFull entry that the liver changes into its active form, prednisolonepred-NIS-oh-loneA corticosteroid drug, often given as a liquid or eye drops, that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.Full entry . It is used for asthma and COPD flares, arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, severe allergic reactions and to prevent organ rejection. Side effects include high blood glucose, a higher risk of infection, mood changes, trouble sleeping, increased appetite and weight gain, and fluid retention; long-term use can thin bones and suppress the adrenal glands.
For the nurse
Teach the client to take it in the morning with food and not to stop it suddenly after more than a short course, since the dose must be tapered. Check blood glucose and blood pressure, and teach the client to avoid sick people and report signs of infection.
At a glance
| Drug class | corticosteroid (glucocorticoid) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Rayos |
| Spanish | prednisona |
| Also written | Rayos |
Easy to confuse with
prednisolone
A corticosteroid drug, often given as a liquid or eye drops, that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.
Related terms
corticosteroid
A drug that acts like the hormones of the adrenal glands, used mainly to calm inflammation and the immune system.
cortisol
A steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, stress and inflammation.
prednisolone
A corticosteroid drug, often given as a liquid or eye drops, that reduces inflammation and calms the immune system.