Description

Prednisolone is a synthetic corticosteroid with effective anti-inflammatory properties. Because horses do not absorb oral prednisone well, some veterinarians prefer to use other corticosteroids or oral prednisolone which is more readily absorbed by the horse's system.

While oral prednisolone can be administered to horses, the small tablet sizes available make it inconvenient, so equine formulations of oral dexamethasone are recommended. The injectable formulation of dexamethasone can be given IV to horses with acute bronchoconstriction and dyspnea.

Usage

Prednisolone is given systemically to decrease inflammatory and immune responses. For years, it has been given orally to treat heaves in horses and other allergic or immune disorders.

In contrast, prednisolone tablets have excellent bio-availability and veterinarians are considering them to be more useful as a therapeutic agent in horses.

Dosage and Administration

Prednisolone
Method	Dosage (click row for calculator)	Concentration	Period	Duration
Oral	0.25-1 mg/kg	20 mg/tablet		NA
Prednisolone Acetate
Intramuscular injection	0.25-1 mg/kg	100 mg/ml		NA
Prednisolone Sodium Succinate
Intravenous injection	0.25-1 mg/kg	50 mg/ml	Every 12, 24 or 48 hours1	NA
Notes: 1Depending on the size of the animal and the severity of the condition and the response to the treatment.. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. Extra-label use of drugs in treating animals is allowable only by licensed veterinarians within the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and does not include drug use in treating animals by the layman (except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian). The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your equine appears to feel better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse. This medication may be available in forms and concentrations not noted in the above table. Always check the label and literature provided with the medication about the form and concentration and DO NOT USE the calculator if the information differs. Calculator is for educational purposes only. Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding use of this, or any medication.

Side Effects

Short-term use of prednisolone is unlikely to cause adverse side effects in horses.

Precautions

Chronic or inappropriate use of corticosteroids can cause life threatening hormonal and metabolic changes. Animals that have received long-term therapy should be withdrawn slowly by tapering the dosage and prolonging the interval between doses.

Animals receiving systemic corticosteroids may be more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections which can be masked by the medication.

Use of corticosteroids in young animals should be avoided or monitored closely because of immune suppression and the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers.

Corticosteroids have been known to cause laminitis in horses, although prednisolone is not thought to be in the higher risk category.

Corticosteroids should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation unless the benefits outweight the risks.

In all cases, on-going consultation with a veterinarian is recommended.

Prednisolone is a prescription drug and U. S. Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.

Prednisolone would be prohibited in any drug-free competition.

Interactions

Risk of electrolyte imbalances are increased when amphotercin B or diurectics, such as furosemide, are given with corticosteroids. Corticosteroids may increase insulin requirements.

Drugs that may cause drug interactions with prednisone include: salicylate, phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampin, cyclosporin, erythormycin, mitotane, and anticholinesterase drugs, such as neostigmine.

Risk of GI ulcers is increased if corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given at the same time.

Overdose

Short-term administration of even large doses is unlikely to cause serious systemic effects.

Problems related to long-term administration of prednisolone include suppression of normal adrenal function, latrongenic Cushing's disease, and metabolic crisis due to abrupt withdrawal from prednisone.