Name: Prednisone
Class: Corticosteroid (Immunosuppressant)
Mechanism: Inhib. of IL-1 & TNF synth/release from Mfs ® ¯ activation of T cells and Mfs, ¯ PMN fxn, ¯ T cell-dependent Ab production, ¯ complement activity, ¯ activity & release of kinins.
Absorption: Oral
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Suppressed pituitary adrenal fxn, hypertension, weight gain, peptic ulcer, GI bleeding, euphoric personality changes, cataracts, hyperglycemia.
Utility: Immunosuppression. Primarily employed to induce remission in patients w/acute lymphocytic leukemia, and for treatment of lymphomas. Treat hypercalcemia due to vit. D intox., sarcoidosis, or specific cancers (e.g., lymphoproliferative) (30-60 mg/d).
Special Features: