Products
Prednisolone commercially available as an eye drop suspension (Pred forte).
Structure and properties
Prednisolone is present in the drug in the form of the ester prednisolone acetate (C23H30O6, Mr = 402.5 g/mol). Prednisolone acetate is a prodrug that is hydrolyzed in the body to the active metabolite prednisolone.
Effects
Prednisolone acetate (ATC S01BA04) has anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and immunosuppressive properties. The effects are due in part to binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors.
Indications
For the treatment of noninfectious ocular inflammation of the eyelids, eyeball, cornea, conjunctiva, and anterior segment.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drops are placed in the eye up to four times daily. More frequent application is also possible at the beginning of treatment. The duration of treatment should be kept short due to the possible side effects on the eye. Shake well before use! See also under Administering eye drops.
Contraindications
Prednisolone acetate is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, viral, mycobacterial, and fungal infections of the eye. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with anticholinergics. Other eye drops should be administered at a time interval.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include:
- Local reactions to the eye such as increased intraocular pressure, cataracts, eye infections, irritation, visual disturbances, and corneal damage
- Hypersensitivity reactions, skin rash.
- Headache
- Taste disorders
- Systemic side effects can not be ruled out completely
