Prednisolone
What it's for
Prednisolone is a steroid that reduces inflammation. It treats asthma flare-ups, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and many other conditions. Short courses are common for asthma attacks.
Comes as: Tablets or soluble tablets
How to take it
- Dose varies widely depending on the condition.
- Usually taken once a day in the morning with breakfast.
- For asthma attacks: often 40mg daily for 5 days.
- Long-term use requires gradual dose reduction - never stop suddenly.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Increased appetite and weight gain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Mood changes or feeling restless
- Indigestion
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Do not stop taking it suddenly after more than 3 weeks of use
- Increases risk of infections - avoid people with chickenpox or measles
- Can raise blood sugar - important if you have diabetes
- Long-term use can weaken bones
- Carry a steroid card if on long-term treatment
Get medical help urgently if…
- You are exposed to chickenpox or measles and are not immune
- You become unwell with an infection
- You have severe stomach pain
- You have changes in vision
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.