Prednisolone is a steroid medication classified as a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are similar to steroids produced naturally in the body by the adrenal gland. Doctors prescribe corticosteroids to treat a variety of conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, allergies and Addison's disease. Prednisolone steroids induce many physiological effects in the body, including the therapeutic effects as well as unwanted side effects.
Anti-inflammatory
Prednisolone and other corticosteroids are most commonly prescribed for their anti-inflammatory effects. Unlike other anti-inflammatory medications, these drugs act on three components important in inflammation--the inflammatory cells, the blood vessels and the release of mediators (enzymes necessary for inflammation).
Prednisolone binds to the steroid receptors, therefore acting on the immune cells involved in inflammation, specifically the T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. In addition, it triggers blood vessels to constrict, helping to reduce inflammation. Prednisolone inhibits the production of prostaglandins; enzymes that are produced in response to injury and mediate the inflammatory response.
Cushing's Syndrome
Prednisolone impacts the functions of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and adrenal glands, resulting in too much of the hormone cortisol being produced. Taken daily, prednisolone can trigger Cushing's syndrome, a condition caused by the excess of cortisol.
The most pronounced symptom of this effect, and one that most patients prefer to avoid, is weight gain especially in the abdominal region, face and back of the neck, according to doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Other symptoms of the Cushing's effect include easily bruising, muscle wasting and hypertension.
Immune Suppressor
Inflammatory responses are mediated by the cells of the immune system. The main effect of prednisolone is to inhibit the cells of the immune system involved in the inflammation, which leaves people taking this medication at a higher risk of infection.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong reports that prednisolone and related corticosteroids inhibit the T and B lymphocytes involved in inflammation and reduce the number of eosinophils (white blood cells that help to fight infection and control allergy and asthma responses). Large doses inhibit antibody production.
Growth Inhibitor
Taking prednisolone for a long period of time, according to the European Respiratory Journal, can cause a reduction in bone mass, a condition known as osteoporosis. In children, who have new bone tissue forming to promote growth, this effect can inhibit normal growth.
