Prednisone (Deltasone) Flashcards

Study Notes

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

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

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

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