Prednisolone Oral Solution, Usp 15 Mg Per 5 Ml

Prednisolone Oral Solution, Usp 15 Mg Per 5 Ml
SPL v1
SPL
SPL Set ID b079834f-9aa3-4db9-bd53-de28e8f81c04
Route
ORAL
Published
Effective Date 2025-02-11
Document Type 34391-3 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Facts

Composition & Product

Active Ingredients
Prednisolone (15 mg)
Inactive Ingredients
Cherry Benzoic Acid Alcohol Anhydrous Citric Acid Edetate Disodium Glycerin Propylene Glycol Water Saccharin Sodium Sucrose Fd&c Red No. 40

Identifiers & Packaging

Marketing Status
ANDA Active Since 2025-03-01

Description

Prednisolone oral solution contains prednisolone which is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic, which are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Prednisolone is a white to practically white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, soluble in methanol and in dioxane; sparingly soluble in acetone and in alcohol, slightly soluble in chloroform. The chemical name for Prednisolone is Pregna-1,4 -diene -3, 20 - dione, 11, 17, 21-trihydroxy-,(11β). Its molecular weight is 360.45. The molecular formula is C 21 H 28 O 5 and the structural formula is: Prednisolone oral solution contains 15 mg of prednisolone in each 5 mL. Benzoic acid, 0.1% is added as a preservative. It also contains ethyl alcohol 5% (v/v), citric acid, edetate disodium, glycerin, propylene glycol, purified water, saccharin sodium, sucrose, natural and artificial wild cherry flavor, FD&C red #40.

Indications and Usage

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP is indicated in the following conditions:

Dosage and Administration

Dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be individualized according to the severity of the disease and the response of the patient. For infants and children, the recommended dosage should be governed by the same considerations rather than strict adherence to the ratio indicated by age or body weight. Hormone therapy is an adjunct to and not a replacement for conventional therapy. Dosage should be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days. The severity, prognosis, expected duration of the disease, and the reaction of the patient to medication are primary factors in determining dosage. If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued.  Blood pressure, body weight, routine laboratory studies, including two-hour postprandial blood glucose and serum potassium, and a chest X-ray should be obtained at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with known or suspected peptic ulcer disease. The initial dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP may vary from 5 mg to 60 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated. In situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory clinical response, Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. IT SHOULD BE EMPHASIZED THAT DOSAGE REQUIREMENTS ARE VARIABLE AND MUST BE INDIVIDUALIZED ON THE BASIS OF THE DISEASE UNDER TREATMENT AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT. After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. Included in the situations which may make dosage adjustments necessary are changes in clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations in the disease process, the patient’s individual drug responsiveness, and the effect of patient exposure to stressful situations not directly related to the disease entity under treatment. In this latter situation it may be necessary to increase the dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP for a period of time consistent with the patient’s condition. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections.

Adverse Reactions

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances       Sodium retention       Fluid retention       Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients       Potassium loss       Hypokalemic alkalosis       Hypertension Musculoskeletal       Muscle weakness       Steroid myopathy       Loss of muscle mass       Osteoporosis       Vertebral compression fractures       Aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads       Pathologic fracture of long bones Gastrointestinal       Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage       Pancreatitis       Abdominal distention       Ulcerative esophagitis Dermatologic       Impaired wound healing       Thin fragile skin       Petechiae and ecchymoses       Facial erythema       Increased sweating       May suppress reactions to skin tests Neurological       Convulsions        Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment       Vertigo       Headache Endocrine       Menstrual irregularities       Development of Cushingoid state       Suppression of growth in children       Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness       Decreased carbohydrate tolerance       Manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus       Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics Ophthalmic       Posterior subcapsular cataracts       Increased intraocular pressure       Glaucoma       Exophthalmos Metabolic       Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-866-901-DRUG (3784) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

How Supplied

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP containing 15 mg of Prednisolone in each 5 mL (teaspoonful) is a clear pinkish-red wild cherry flavored liquid and is supplied in 240 mL bottles (NDC 23155-927-51), 480 mL (NDC 23155-927-52) bottles. Pharmacist: Dispense 15 mg/5 mL Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP with suitable calibrated measuring device to assure proper measuring of dose. Dispense in tight, light-resistant and child-resistant container as defined in USP/NF. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. DO NOT REFRIGERATE. Distributed by: Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. East Brunswick, NJ 08816 1.866.901.DRUG (3784) Revised: 01/2025


Medication Information

Indications and Usage

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP is indicated in the following conditions:

Dosage and Administration

Dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be individualized according to the severity of the disease and the response of the patient. For infants and children, the recommended dosage should be governed by the same considerations rather than strict adherence to the ratio indicated by age or body weight.

Hormone therapy is an adjunct to and not a replacement for conventional therapy.

Dosage should be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days.

The severity, prognosis, expected duration of the disease, and the reaction of the patient to medication are primary factors in determining dosage.

If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. 

Blood pressure, body weight, routine laboratory studies, including two-hour postprandial blood glucose and serum potassium, and a chest X-ray should be obtained at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with known or suspected peptic

ulcer disease.

The initial dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP may vary from 5 mg to 60 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated. In situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory clinical response, Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. IT SHOULD BE EMPHASIZED THAT DOSAGE REQUIREMENTS ARE VARIABLE AND MUST BE INDIVIDUALIZED ON THE BASIS OF THE DISEASE UNDER TREATMENT AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT.

After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. Included in the situations which may make dosage adjustments necessary are changes in clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations in the disease process, the patient’s individual drug responsiveness, and the effect of patient exposure to stressful situations not directly related to the disease entity under treatment. In this latter situation it may be necessary to increase the dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP for a period of time consistent with the patient’s condition. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.

Contraindications

Systemic fungal infections.

Adverse Reactions

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances

      Sodium retention

      Fluid retention

      Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients

      Potassium loss

      Hypokalemic alkalosis

      Hypertension

Musculoskeletal

      Muscle weakness

      Steroid myopathy

      Loss of muscle mass

      Osteoporosis

      Vertebral compression fractures

      Aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads

      Pathologic fracture of long bones

Gastrointestinal

      Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage

      Pancreatitis

      Abdominal distention

      Ulcerative esophagitis

Dermatologic

      Impaired wound healing

      Thin fragile skin

      Petechiae and ecchymoses

      Facial erythema

      Increased sweating

      May suppress reactions to skin tests

Neurological

      Convulsions 

      Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment

      Vertigo

      Headache

Endocrine

      Menstrual irregularities

      Development of Cushingoid state

      Suppression of growth in children

      Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness

      Decreased carbohydrate tolerance

      Manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus

      Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics

Ophthalmic

      Posterior subcapsular cataracts

      Increased intraocular pressure

      Glaucoma

      Exophthalmos

Metabolic

      Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-866-901-DRUG (3784) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

How Supplied

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP containing 15 mg of Prednisolone in each 5 mL (teaspoonful) is a clear pinkish-red wild cherry flavored liquid and is supplied in 240 mL bottles (NDC 23155-927-51), 480 mL (NDC 23155-927-52) bottles.

Pharmacist: Dispense 15 mg/5 mL Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP with suitable calibrated measuring device to assure proper measuring of dose.

Dispense in tight, light-resistant and child-resistant container as defined in USP/NF.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. DO NOT REFRIGERATE.

Distributed by:

Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc.

East Brunswick, NJ 08816

1.866.901.DRUG (3784)

Revised: 01/2025

Description

Prednisolone oral solution contains prednisolone which is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic, which are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Prednisolone is a white to practically white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, soluble in methanol and in dioxane; sparingly soluble in acetone and in alcohol, slightly soluble in chloroform.

The chemical name for Prednisolone is Pregna-1,4 -diene -3, 20 - dione, 11, 17, 21-trihydroxy-,(11β). Its molecular weight is 360.45. The molecular formula is C21H28O5 and the structural formula is:

Prednisolone oral solution contains 15 mg of prednisolone in each 5 mL. Benzoic acid, 0.1% is added as a preservative. It also contains ethyl alcohol 5% (v/v), citric acid, edetate disodium, glycerin, propylene glycol, purified water, saccharin sodium, sucrose, natural and artificial wild cherry flavor, FD&C red #40.

Warnings

 In patients on corticosteroid therapy subjected to unusual stress, increased dosage of rapidly acting corticosteroids before, during, and after the stressful situation is indicated.

Immunosuppression and Increased Risk of Infection

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic pathogens. Corticosteroids can:

  • Reduce resistance
  • Exacerbate existing infections
  • Increase the risk if disseminated infections
  • Increase the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of latent infections
  • Mask some signs of infection

Corticosteroid-associated infections can be mild but can be severe and at times fatal. The rate of infectious complications increases with increasing corticosteroid dosages.

Monitor for the development of infection and consider prednisolone oral solution withdrawal or dosage reduction as needed.

Do not administer prednisolone oral solution by an intraarticular, intrabursal, intratendinous, or intralesional route in the presence of acute local infection.

Tuberculosis

If prednisolone oral solution is used to treat a condition in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, reactivation of tuberculosis may occur. Closely monitor such patients for reactivation. During prolonged prednisolone oral solution therapy, patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity should receive chemoprophylaxis.

Varicella Zoster and Measles Viral Infections

Varicella and measles can have a serious or even fatal course in non-immune patients taking corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution. In corticosteroids-treated patients who have not had these diseases or are non-immune, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure to varicella and measles:

  • If a prednisolone oral solution-treated patient is exposed to varicella, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin may be indicated. If varicella develops, treatment with antiviral agents may be considered.
  • If a prednisolone oral solution-treated patient is exposed to measles, prophylaxis with immunoglobulin may be indicated.

Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation

Hepatitis B virus reactivation can occur in patients who are hepatitis B carriers treated with immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution. Reactivation can also occur infrequently in corticosteroids-treated patients who appear to have resolved hepatitis B infection.

Screen patients for hepatitis B infection before initiating immunosuppressive (e.g. prolonged) treatment with prednisolone oral solution. For patients who show evidence of hepatitis B infection, recommend consultation with physician with expertise in managing hepatitis B regarding monitoring and consideration for hepatitis B antiviral therapy.

Fungal Infections

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, may exacerbate systemic fungal infections; therefore, avoid prednisolone oral solution use in the presence of such infections unless prednisolone oral solution is needed to control drug reactions. For patients on chronic prednisolone oral solution therapy who develop systemic fungal infections, prednisolone oral solution withdrawal or dosage reduction is recommended.

Amebiasis

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, may activate latent amebiasis. Therefore, it is recommended that latent amebiasis or active amebiasis be ruled out before initiating prednisolone oral solution in patients who spent time in the tropics or patients with unexplained diarrhea.

Strongyloides Infestation

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, should be used with great care in patients with known or suspected Stronyloides (threadworm) infestation. In such patients, corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression may lead to Strongyloides hyperinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe enterocolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia.

Cerebral Malaria

Avoid corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, in patients with cerebral malaria.

Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroids therapy, most often for chronic conditions. Discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement of Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may produce posterior subcapsular cataracts, glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves, and may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses.

Average and large doses of hydrocortisone or cortisone can cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium. These effects are less likely to occur with the synthetic derivatives except when used in large doses. Dietary salt restriction and potassium supplementation may be necessary. All corticosteroids increase calcium excretion.

While on corticosteroid therapy, patients should not be vaccinated against smallpox. Other immunization procedures should not be undertaken in patients who are on corticosteroids, especially on high dose, because of possible hazards of neurological complications and a lack of antibody response.

Use in pregnancy: Since adequate human reproduction studies have not been done with corticosteroids, the use of these drugs in pregnancy, nursing mothers or women of childbearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the potential hazards to the mother and embryo or fetus. Infants born of mothers who have received substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism.

Precautions

General

Drug-induced secondary adrenocortical insufficiency may be minimized by gradual reduction of dosage. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted. Since mineralocorticoid secretion may be impaired, salt and/or a mineralocorticoid should be administered concurrently.

There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids on patients with hypothyroidism and in those with cirrhosis.

Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible corneal perforation.

The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment, and when reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual.

Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression, to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.



Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia.

Steroids should be used with caution in nonspecific ulcerative colitis, if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess or other pyogenic infections; diverticulitis; fresh intestinal anastomoses; active or latent peptic ulcer; renal insufficiency; hypertension; osteoporosis; and myasthenia gravis.

Growth and development of infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be carefully observed.



Information for Patients

Patients who are on immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids should be warned to avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles. Patients should also be advised that if they are exposed, medical advice should be sought without delay.

12. Miscellaneous

Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.

In addition to the above indications prednisolone oral solution is indicated for systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).

5. Allergic States

Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment:

      Seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis

      Bronchial asthma

      Contact dermatitis

      Atopic dermatitis

      Serum sickness

      Drug hypersensitivity reactions

10. Edematous States

To induce a diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.

3. Collagen Diseases

During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: 

      Systemic lupus erythematosus

      Acute rheumatic carditis

Clinical Pharmacology

Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have saltretaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. Their synthetic analogs such as prednisolone are primarily used for their potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems.

Glucocorticoids such as prednisolone cause profound and varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body’s immune responses to diverse stimuli.

1. Endocrine Disorders

Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice: synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance).

      Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

      Nonsuppurative thyroiditis

      Hypercalcemia associated with cancer

2. Rheumatic Disorders

As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in:

      Psoriatic arthritis

      Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy)

      Ankylosing spondylitis

      Acute and subacute bursitis

      Acute nonspecific tenosynovitis

      Acute gouty arthritis

      Post-traumatic osteoarthritis

      Synovitis of osteoarthritis

      Epicondylitis

6. Ophthalmic Diseases

Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as:  

      Allergic corneal marginal ulcers

      Herpes zoster ophthalmicus

      Anterior segment inflammation

      Diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis

      Sympathetic ophthalmia

      Allergic conjunctivitis

      Keratitis

      Chorioretinitis

      Optic neuritis

      Iritis and iridocyclitis

9. Neoplastic Diseases

For palliative management of:

      Acute leukemia of childhood

      Leukemias and lymphomas in adults

7. Respiratory Diseases

Symptomatic sarcoidosis Loeffler’s syndrome not manageable by other means

      Berylliosis

      Fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate chemotherapy

      Aspiration pneumonitis

4. Dermatologic Diseases

      Pemphigus

      Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis

      Severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)

      Exfoliative dermatitis

      Mycosis fungoides

      Severe psoriasis

      Severe seborrheic dermatitis

8. Hematologic Disorders

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults

Secondary thrombocytopenia in adults

Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia

Erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia)

Congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia

11. Gastrointestinal Diseases

To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in:

      Ulcerative colitis

      Regional enteritis

Package Label.principal Display Panel

PrednisoLONE Oral Solution, USP 15 mg per 5 mL - NDC 23155-927-51- 240 mL Bottle Label

PrednisoLONE Oral Solution, USP 15 mg per 5 mL - NDC 23155-927-52- 480 mL Bottle Label


Structured Label Content

Warnings (WARNINGS)

 In patients on corticosteroid therapy subjected to unusual stress, increased dosage of rapidly acting corticosteroids before, during, and after the stressful situation is indicated.

Immunosuppression and Increased Risk of Infection

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic pathogens. Corticosteroids can:

  • Reduce resistance
  • Exacerbate existing infections
  • Increase the risk if disseminated infections
  • Increase the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of latent infections
  • Mask some signs of infection

Corticosteroid-associated infections can be mild but can be severe and at times fatal. The rate of infectious complications increases with increasing corticosteroid dosages.

Monitor for the development of infection and consider prednisolone oral solution withdrawal or dosage reduction as needed.

Do not administer prednisolone oral solution by an intraarticular, intrabursal, intratendinous, or intralesional route in the presence of acute local infection.

Tuberculosis

If prednisolone oral solution is used to treat a condition in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, reactivation of tuberculosis may occur. Closely monitor such patients for reactivation. During prolonged prednisolone oral solution therapy, patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity should receive chemoprophylaxis.

Varicella Zoster and Measles Viral Infections

Varicella and measles can have a serious or even fatal course in non-immune patients taking corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution. In corticosteroids-treated patients who have not had these diseases or are non-immune, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure to varicella and measles:

  • If a prednisolone oral solution-treated patient is exposed to varicella, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin may be indicated. If varicella develops, treatment with antiviral agents may be considered.
  • If a prednisolone oral solution-treated patient is exposed to measles, prophylaxis with immunoglobulin may be indicated.

Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation

Hepatitis B virus reactivation can occur in patients who are hepatitis B carriers treated with immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution. Reactivation can also occur infrequently in corticosteroids-treated patients who appear to have resolved hepatitis B infection.

Screen patients for hepatitis B infection before initiating immunosuppressive (e.g. prolonged) treatment with prednisolone oral solution. For patients who show evidence of hepatitis B infection, recommend consultation with physician with expertise in managing hepatitis B regarding monitoring and consideration for hepatitis B antiviral therapy.

Fungal Infections

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, may exacerbate systemic fungal infections; therefore, avoid prednisolone oral solution use in the presence of such infections unless prednisolone oral solution is needed to control drug reactions. For patients on chronic prednisolone oral solution therapy who develop systemic fungal infections, prednisolone oral solution withdrawal or dosage reduction is recommended.

Amebiasis

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, may activate latent amebiasis. Therefore, it is recommended that latent amebiasis or active amebiasis be ruled out before initiating prednisolone oral solution in patients who spent time in the tropics or patients with unexplained diarrhea.

Strongyloides Infestation

Corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, should be used with great care in patients with known or suspected Stronyloides (threadworm) infestation. In such patients, corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression may lead to Strongyloides hyperinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe enterocolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia.

Cerebral Malaria

Avoid corticosteroids, including prednisolone oral solution, in patients with cerebral malaria.

Kaposi’s Sarcoma

Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroids therapy, most often for chronic conditions. Discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement of Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Prolonged use of corticosteroids may produce posterior subcapsular cataracts, glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves, and may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses.

Average and large doses of hydrocortisone or cortisone can cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium. These effects are less likely to occur with the synthetic derivatives except when used in large doses. Dietary salt restriction and potassium supplementation may be necessary. All corticosteroids increase calcium excretion.

While on corticosteroid therapy, patients should not be vaccinated against smallpox. Other immunization procedures should not be undertaken in patients who are on corticosteroids, especially on high dose, because of possible hazards of neurological complications and a lack of antibody response.

Use in pregnancy: Since adequate human reproduction studies have not been done with corticosteroids, the use of these drugs in pregnancy, nursing mothers or women of childbearing potential requires that the possible benefits of the drug be weighed against the potential hazards to the mother and embryo or fetus. Infants born of mothers who have received substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism.

Description (DESCRIPTION)

Prednisolone oral solution contains prednisolone which is a glucocorticoid. Glucocorticoids are adrenocortical steroids, both naturally occurring and synthetic, which are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Prednisolone is a white to practically white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, soluble in methanol and in dioxane; sparingly soluble in acetone and in alcohol, slightly soluble in chloroform.

The chemical name for Prednisolone is Pregna-1,4 -diene -3, 20 - dione, 11, 17, 21-trihydroxy-,(11β). Its molecular weight is 360.45. The molecular formula is C21H28O5 and the structural formula is:

Prednisolone oral solution contains 15 mg of prednisolone in each 5 mL. Benzoic acid, 0.1% is added as a preservative. It also contains ethyl alcohol 5% (v/v), citric acid, edetate disodium, glycerin, propylene glycol, purified water, saccharin sodium, sucrose, natural and artificial wild cherry flavor, FD&C red #40.

Precautions (PRECAUTIONS)

General

Drug-induced secondary adrenocortical insufficiency may be minimized by gradual reduction of dosage. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy; therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, hormone therapy should be reinstituted. Since mineralocorticoid secretion may be impaired, salt and/or a mineralocorticoid should be administered concurrently.

There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids on patients with hypothyroidism and in those with cirrhosis.

Corticosteroids should be used cautiously in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible corneal perforation.

The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment, and when reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual.

Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression, to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.



Aspirin should be used cautiously in conjunction with corticosteroids in hypoprothrombinemia.

Steroids should be used with caution in nonspecific ulcerative colitis, if there is a probability of impending perforation, abscess or other pyogenic infections; diverticulitis; fresh intestinal anastomoses; active or latent peptic ulcer; renal insufficiency; hypertension; osteoporosis; and myasthenia gravis.

Growth and development of infants and children on prolonged corticosteroid therapy should be carefully observed.



Information for Patients

Patients who are on immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids should be warned to avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles. Patients should also be advised that if they are exposed, medical advice should be sought without delay.

How Supplied (HOW SUPPLIED)

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP containing 15 mg of Prednisolone in each 5 mL (teaspoonful) is a clear pinkish-red wild cherry flavored liquid and is supplied in 240 mL bottles (NDC 23155-927-51), 480 mL (NDC 23155-927-52) bottles.

Pharmacist: Dispense 15 mg/5 mL Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP with suitable calibrated measuring device to assure proper measuring of dose.

Dispense in tight, light-resistant and child-resistant container as defined in USP/NF.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. DO NOT REFRIGERATE.

Distributed by:

Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc.

East Brunswick, NJ 08816

1.866.901.DRUG (3784)

Revised: 01/2025

12. Miscellaneous

Tuberculous meningitis with subarachnoid block or impending block used concurrently with appropriate antituberculous chemotherapy. Trichinosis with neurologic or myocardial involvement.

In addition to the above indications prednisolone oral solution is indicated for systemic dermatomyositis (polymyositis).

Adverse Reactions (ADVERSE REACTIONS)

Fluid and Electrolyte Disturbances

      Sodium retention

      Fluid retention

      Congestive heart failure in susceptible patients

      Potassium loss

      Hypokalemic alkalosis

      Hypertension

Musculoskeletal

      Muscle weakness

      Steroid myopathy

      Loss of muscle mass

      Osteoporosis

      Vertebral compression fractures

      Aseptic necrosis of femoral and humeral heads

      Pathologic fracture of long bones

Gastrointestinal

      Peptic ulcer with possible perforation and hemorrhage

      Pancreatitis

      Abdominal distention

      Ulcerative esophagitis

Dermatologic

      Impaired wound healing

      Thin fragile skin

      Petechiae and ecchymoses

      Facial erythema

      Increased sweating

      May suppress reactions to skin tests

Neurological

      Convulsions 

      Increased intracranial pressure with papilledema (pseudo-tumor cerebri) usually after treatment

      Vertigo

      Headache

Endocrine

      Menstrual irregularities

      Development of Cushingoid state

      Suppression of growth in children

      Secondary adrenocortical and pituitary unresponsiveness, particularly in times of stress, as in trauma, surgery or illness

      Decreased carbohydrate tolerance

      Manifestations of latent diabetes mellitus

      Increased requirements for insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents in diabetics

Ophthalmic

      Posterior subcapsular cataracts

      Increased intraocular pressure

      Glaucoma

      Exophthalmos

Metabolic

      Negative nitrogen balance due to protein catabolism

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-866-901-DRUG (3784) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Contraindications (CONTRAINDICATIONS)

Systemic fungal infections.

5. Allergic States

Control of severe or incapacitating allergic conditions intractable to adequate trials of conventional treatment:

      Seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis

      Bronchial asthma

      Contact dermatitis

      Atopic dermatitis

      Serum sickness

      Drug hypersensitivity reactions

10. Edematous States

To induce a diuresis or remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome, without uremia, of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus.

3. Collagen Diseases

During an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of: 

      Systemic lupus erythematosus

      Acute rheumatic carditis

Clinical Pharmacology (CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY)

Naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone and cortisone), which also have saltretaining properties, are used as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states. Their synthetic analogs such as prednisolone are primarily used for their potent anti-inflammatory effects in disorders of many organ systems.

Glucocorticoids such as prednisolone cause profound and varied metabolic effects. In addition, they modify the body’s immune responses to diverse stimuli.

Indications and Usage (INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP is indicated in the following conditions:

1. Endocrine Disorders

Primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency (hydrocortisone or cortisone is the first choice: synthetic analogs may be used in conjunction with mineralocorticoids where applicable; in infancy mineralocorticoid supplementation is of particular importance).

      Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

      Nonsuppurative thyroiditis

      Hypercalcemia associated with cancer

2. Rheumatic Disorders

As adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in:

      Psoriatic arthritis

      Rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy)

      Ankylosing spondylitis

      Acute and subacute bursitis

      Acute nonspecific tenosynovitis

      Acute gouty arthritis

      Post-traumatic osteoarthritis

      Synovitis of osteoarthritis

      Epicondylitis

6. Ophthalmic Diseases

Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as:  

      Allergic corneal marginal ulcers

      Herpes zoster ophthalmicus

      Anterior segment inflammation

      Diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis

      Sympathetic ophthalmia

      Allergic conjunctivitis

      Keratitis

      Chorioretinitis

      Optic neuritis

      Iritis and iridocyclitis

9. Neoplastic Diseases

For palliative management of:

      Acute leukemia of childhood

      Leukemias and lymphomas in adults

7. Respiratory Diseases

Symptomatic sarcoidosis Loeffler’s syndrome not manageable by other means

      Berylliosis

      Fulminating or disseminated pulmonary tuberculosis when used concurrently with appropriate chemotherapy

      Aspiration pneumonitis

4. Dermatologic Diseases

      Pemphigus

      Bullous dermatitis herpetiformis

      Severe erythema multiforme (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)

      Exfoliative dermatitis

      Mycosis fungoides

      Severe psoriasis

      Severe seborrheic dermatitis

8. Hematologic Disorders

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in adults

Secondary thrombocytopenia in adults

Acquired (autoimmune) hemolytic anemia

Erythroblastopenia (RBC anemia)

Congenital (erythroid) hypoplastic anemia

Dosage and Administration (DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION)

Dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be individualized according to the severity of the disease and the response of the patient. For infants and children, the recommended dosage should be governed by the same considerations rather than strict adherence to the ratio indicated by age or body weight.

Hormone therapy is an adjunct to and not a replacement for conventional therapy.

Dosage should be decreased or discontinued gradually when the drug has been administered for more than a few days.

The severity, prognosis, expected duration of the disease, and the reaction of the patient to medication are primary factors in determining dosage.

If a period of spontaneous remission occurs in a chronic condition, treatment should be discontinued. 

Blood pressure, body weight, routine laboratory studies, including two-hour postprandial blood glucose and serum potassium, and a chest X-ray should be obtained at regular intervals during prolonged therapy. Upper GI X-rays are desirable in patients with known or suspected peptic

ulcer disease.

The initial dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP may vary from 5 mg to 60 mg per day depending on the specific disease entity being treated. In situations of less severity lower doses will generally suffice while in selected patients higher initial doses may be required. The initial dosage should be maintained or adjusted until a satisfactory response is noted. If after a reasonable period of time there is a lack of satisfactory clinical response, Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP should be discontinued and the patient transferred to other appropriate therapy. IT SHOULD BE EMPHASIZED THAT DOSAGE REQUIREMENTS ARE VARIABLE AND MUST BE INDIVIDUALIZED ON THE BASIS OF THE DISEASE UNDER TREATMENT AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT.

After a favorable response is noted, the proper maintenance dosage should be determined by decreasing the initial drug dosage in small decrements at appropriate time intervals until the lowest dosage which will maintain an adequate clinical response is reached. It should be kept in mind that constant monitoring is needed in regard to drug dosage. Included in the situations which may make dosage adjustments necessary are changes in clinical status secondary to remissions or exacerbations in the disease process, the patient’s individual drug responsiveness, and the effect of patient exposure to stressful situations not directly related to the disease entity under treatment. In this latter situation it may be necessary to increase the dosage of Prednisolone Oral Solution, USP for a period of time consistent with the patient’s condition. If after long-term therapy the drug is to be stopped, it is recommended that it be withdrawn gradually rather than abruptly.

11. Gastrointestinal Diseases

To tide the patient over a critical period of the disease in:

      Ulcerative colitis

      Regional enteritis

Package Label.principal Display Panel (PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL)

PrednisoLONE Oral Solution, USP 15 mg per 5 mL - NDC 23155-927-51- 240 mL Bottle Label

PrednisoLONE Oral Solution, USP 15 mg per 5 mL - NDC 23155-927-52- 480 mL Bottle Label


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