Prednisone (Deltasone) Flashcards

Study Notes

Prednisone Overview

Generic name: prednisone
Brand name: Deltasone
Therapeutic class: Anti-asthmatic, corticosteroids
Pharmacologic class: Corticosteroids (systemic)

Uses and Actions

Indicated for a variety of chronic diseases including:
- Inflammatory disorders
- Allergic reactions
- Hematologic conditions
- Neoplastic diseases
- Autoimmune disorders
- Asthma management
Function:
- Suppresses inflammation and immune responses
- Prevents and decreases inflammatory processes

Pharmacokinetics and Contraindications

Pharmacokinetics: Unknown
Contraindications include:
- Active untreated infections
- Administration of live virus vaccines

Caution and Interactions

Use with caution in patients with:
- Chronic therapy needs
- Hyperthyroidism
- Respiratory tuberculosis
- Untreated infections
- Diabetes
- Renal or hepatic impairment
Drug interactions:
- Increased risk of hypokalemia with thiazide and loop diuretics
- Higher GI effects risk with NSAIDs
- St. John's Wort may reduce drug concentration; Cat's claw and echinacea may stimulate immune response
- Grapefruit juice may raise serum levels of certain medications

Assessments and Administration

Regular assessments for adrenal insufficiency should be conducted
Monitor:
- Patient's intake/output ratios and daily weight
- Signs of peripheral edema and respiratory distress
- Blood pressure and serum electrolytes
- Glucose levels and bone mineral density
- Possible infections
Administration notes:
- Capsules must be swallowed whole
- Grapefruit juice should be avoided during use

Desired Outcomes

Goals of therapy include:
- Reduction of symptoms with minimal systemic side effects
- Effective suppression of inflammatory and immune responses in various conditions
- Improvement in symptoms associated with Crohn's Disease
- Management of adrenal insufficiency

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Potential side effects include:
- Peptic ulceration
- Risk of thromboembolism
- Euphoria or depression
- Headache, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia
- Acne and decreased wound healing
- Adrenal suppression and cushingoid appearance
- Osteoporosis, muscle wasting, and ecchymoses (bruising)
- Increased fragility in patients

Description

Test your knowledge on Prednisone, also known as Deltasone, with these flashcards. Learn about its generic name, therapeutic class, pharmacologic class, and various uses. This quiz is ideal for anyone studying pharmacology or related health fields.