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Prednisone

Deltasone

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Sourced from primary literature. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Routes

PO

Indications

Anti-inflammatoryImmunosuppressive (IMHA, ITP)

Mechanism of Action

Prodrug converted to prednisolone by the liver. Modulates gene transcription via glucocorticoid receptors, suppressing inflammatory/immune responses.

Side effects & warnings

INEFFECTIVE in cats (cannot convert to prednisolone — use prednisolone instead). PU/PD, polyphagia. GI ulceration. Iatrogenic Cushing's with chronic use. Taper when discontinuing.

Species with Prednisone dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Strong×2

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by a published primary source

  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 1 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO0.5–1 mg/kgq12-24hStrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Dog (Domestic)PO2–4 mg/kgq12h initiallyStrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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