Prednisolone

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Cat Number

API0232234

CAS Number

50-24-8

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CAS Number

50-24-8

EINECS

200-021-7

Storage

Store at room temperature

Synonyms

Metacortandralone; Deltacortril; Delta-Cortef; Hydroretrocortine; Sterane; Codelcortone; Cortalone; Hydeltra; Prenolone; Deltahydrocortisone

Molecular Formula

C21H28O5

Molecular Weight

360.4

Smiles

C[C@]12C[C@@H]([C@H]3[C@H]([C@@H]1CC[C@@]2(C(=O)CO)O)CCC4=CC(=O)C=C[C@]34C)O

Appearance

White to nearly white crystalline powder

Melting Point

240°C (dec.) (lit.)

Boiling Point

570.6±50.0°C at 760 mmHg

Relative Density

1.3±0.1

General Description

Prednisolone is a synthetic glucocorticoid with a 1,2-double bond and a 11β-hydroxyl group, structurally derived from cortisol (hydrocortisone). Its chemical structure is 11β,17α,21-trihydroxypregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione.

Mechanism of Action

Prednisolone binds to the cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptor, and the receptor-ligand complex translocates to the nucleus, modulating gene expression. It suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibits phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase, and reduces leukocyte migration. The drug also induces the synthesis of lipocortin, which inhibits the release of arachidonic acid.

Application

Prednisolone is indicated for the treatment of a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, allergic disorders, and dermatologic diseases. It is also used for the management of adrenal insufficiency, cerebral edema, and as an immunosuppressant in organ transplantation. The drug is the standard of care for many acute and chronic inflammatory diseases.

This review discusses glucocorticoid replacement in hypoadrenalism. Mortality gap persists between treated patients and the general population, possibly due to loss of circadian/ultradian rhythm. Prednisolone and dual-release hydrocortisone (Plenadren) provide smoother profiles. Very low-dose prednisolone (2–4 mg daily) may offer better cardiometabolic outcomes, but evidence is limited.

Fig. 1 Model of glucocorticoid sensitivity in peripheral tissue as it fluctuates during the day. (Choudhury S, et al., 2021)

References

Choudhury S, et al. The use of prednisolone versus dual-release hydrocortisone in the treatment of hypoadrenalism. Endocr Connect. 2021;10(2):R66-R76.

In primary human endometrial stromal fibroblasts (hESFs), prednisolone treatment reduced cytokine expression (IL6, IL11, IL18, LIF, LIFR) but did not affect classic decidualization markers (PRL, IGFBP1). Proteomics revealed prednisolone altered decidualized hESF protein production, enriching proteins associated with acetylation and mitochondria. Conditioned media from prednisolone-treated decidualized hESFs enhanced trophoblast outgrowth and PLCG1 expression while reducing PGF. Prednisolone during the menstrual cycle and first trimester may alter decidual interactions with trophoblasts.

Fig. 2 Analysis of differently regulated decidualized human endometrial stromal fibroblast (hESF) proteins following in vitro decidualization in the presence of prednisolone. (Grbac E, et al., 2021)

References

Grbac E, et al. Prednisolone Alters Endometrial Decidual Cells and Affects Decidual-Trophoblast Interactions. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2021;9:647496.

Does Prednisolone require protection from light during long-term storage?

Yes, it is photosensitive. UV exposure can cause photodegradation and discoloration of the corticosteroid ring. Store in light-resistant containers, preferably amber glass.

What is the recommended storage temperature for Prednisolone?

Store at controlled room temperature (15-25°C). Avoid excessive heat above 30°C, which accelerates oxidation and degradation.

Is Prednisolone stable in oral and ophthalmic formulations?

Yes, when formulated with preservatives and protected from light.

How is the impurity prednisone (an oxidative degradation product) monitored?

This degradation product is specifically quantified using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains within pharmacopoeial limits.