Table of Contents
- Prednisone is a corticosteroid used for lowering inflammation and suppressing the immune response
- Prednisone is prescribed to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and other inflammatory conditions
- Like all drugs, Prednisone has benefits and risks and may not be suitable for all dogs
- Prednisone is only available by prescription and should only be used under the direction and supervision of a veterinarian
What Is Prednisone?
Prednisone belongs to a class of steroid drugs known as corticosteroids (also further classified as glucocorticoids), known for their inflammation-lowering and immune-suppressing effects. They are used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and other inflammatory conditions.
Prednisone is also sometimes referred to as Prednisolone, another corticosteroid. While these are two different drugs, they have the same effect and are sometimes used interchangeably in dogs. Common brands include Prednis-Tab®, Deltasone®, Rayos®, and Pediapred®. Prednisone (and Prednisolone) is a prescription medication and must be used under the direction and supervision of a veterinarian.
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How Does Prednisone Work?
Prednisone is a corticosteroid, it works by binding glucocorticoid receptors to lower inflammation and suppress the immune response. Corticosteroids are naturally occurring steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland; they control immune response, inflammation, and other important bodily functions. In dogs with autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, treatment with the synthetic form of these corticosteroids can have a therapeutic effect.
What is Prednisone Used For?
Prednisone has a wide range of uses and is prescribed to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and other inflammatory conditions.
Some of the Most Common Uses of Prednisone Include (but are not limited to):
- Allergies
- Ear infections
- Dermatological conditions
- Inflammatory eye disorders
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Autoimmune diseases
- Thyroid disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Arthritis
- Cancer
How Is Prednisone Given?
Prednisone is most often given orally, in the form of a tablet or liquid drops that can easily be administered at home. Injectable Prednisone is also available but typically only given in hospital settings. Prednisone may be compounded into other forms, like flavored chews. These medications are produced at compounding pharmacies for dogs with special needs.
Prednisone Dosage
The dosing schedule for Prednisone can vary greatly based on several factors including the dog’s weight, health, and what condition it is being used to treat. Your veterinarian will prescribe a tailored dose for your dog’s individual needs.
As with all prescription medications, you should never deviate from your veterinarian’s prescribed dosing schedule without speaking to them first. Giving your dog a higher-than-recommended dose of Prednisone can lead to toxicity.
Benefits And Risks Of Using Prednisone
For many dogs, Prednisone can be safe and effective, but like all drugs, it has benefits and risks and may not be suitable in all cases. If your veterinarian has prescribed Prednisone for your dog, they have weighed those benefits and risks and decided that your dog is a good candidate. While many dogs tolerate Prednisone well, that doesn’t mean some won’t experience side effects. Your veterinarian will discuss all potential side effects and work with you to monitor your dog’s tolerance of Prednisone.
Efficacy Of Prednisone
Prednisone has been shown to be very effective at suppressing the inflammatory response and is widely used in veterinary medicine (and in human medicine) for that purpose. For Prednisone to be most effective, pet owners should strictly follow the dosing instructions from their veterinarian.
Side Effects Of Prednisone
As with all drugs, side effects or adverse reactions can occur. Owners should monitor their dogs while taking Prednisone and report any side effects or adverse reactions to their veterinarian.
Possible Side Effects of Prednisone Include (but are not limited to):
- Increased hunger and thirst
- Increased urination
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting and/or diarrhea)
- Lethargy
- Panting
- Changes in behavior
- Vocalizations (such as whining or howling)
- Facial swelling or hives (usually indicates an allergy to the medication)
- Changes in haircoat
- Ulcers
- Weight gain
- Muscle wasting
The type and severity of side effects may depend on the dose and how long it’s being taken. Dogs on short-term or lower doses of Prednisone may only experience mild side effects while dogs on long-term or higher doses may be more likely to experience more serious side effects. Your veterinarian will discuss all potential side effects for the dose and duration of your dog’s Prednisone prescription.
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Precautions And Drug Interactions With Prednisone
Treatment with Prednisone is not appropriate for all dogs and precautions should be taken for dogs with certain medical conditions, allergies, or are pregnant or nursing. It’s important to provide your veterinarian with a complete medical history for your dog, especially any known history of allergies, seizures, intolerance to other corticosteroids, diabetes, high blood pressure, Cushing’s disease, and heart, liver, or kidney disease.
Prednisone may also interact with other drugs. Be sure to inform your veterinarian of all medications your dog is currently taking, including any vitamins, supplements, or nutriceuticals.
Possible Drug Interactions with Prednisone Include (but are not limited to):
- NSAIDs
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Antimicrobials
- Salicylates
- Immunosuppressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Hormones
- Cardiac medications
- Seizure medications
- Diuretics
- Fluoroquinolones
- Insulin
- Blood thinners
- Antidepressants
- Barbiturates
Precautions should also be taken when administering and storing Prednisone. High doses can be toxic. Owners should follow their veterinarian’s recommended dosing instructions and store medication out of their dog’s reach. In case of an accidental Prednisone overdose, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Control right away.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Prednisone Be Used For All Dogs?
As with all drugs, the use of Prednisone may not be appropriate for all dogs such as those with certain health conditions or those on certain medications. Your veterinarian will review your dog’s health history and current condition to determine whether or not Prednisone is a safe and effective course of treatment.
How Long Does It Take Prednisone To Start Working?
Prednisone is relatively fast-acting and usually takes effect within 1 to 2 hours but depending on your dog’s condition, it may take some time to notice major improvements. Anti-inflammatory effects are typically felt/noticed first. Dogs with allergies and/or dermatological issues may present as less itchy and inflamed soon after starting their prescription. For dogs taking Prednisone for immunosuppressive benefits, such as with autoimmune disease, it may take a few days for their condition to “calm down.”
Is Prednisone Safe For Long-Term Use In Dogs?
The safety of using Prednisone long-term is highly case-dependent. Some dogs can tolerate Prednisone long-term without serious side effects, while others cannot. Dogs prescribed long-term corticosteroid treatment tend to have more complex health conditions where the benefits of the drug outweigh the risks of side effects. Your veterinarian will make the determination based on your dog’s condition and work with you to closely monitor their progress.
What’s The Difference Between Prednisone And Prednisolone?
Prednisone and Prednisolone are bioequivalent corticosteroids. In dogs, Prednisone is converted into its active form, Prednisolone, in the liver, so either drug can be used with the same effect. Dogs with liver disease (or cats) cannot properly convert Prednisone to Prednisolone so in those cases, Prednisolone is prescribed.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Prednisone?
Prednisone is a commonly prescribed medication that is typically covered by pet insurance if your plan includes prescription drug coverage. However, this will also depend on whether or not the condition Prednisone is being prescribed for is covered. Situations where it may not be covered may be due to pre-existing conditions or breed-specific condition exclusions.
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