Glucocorticoids
Also known as: Prednisone, Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone, Triamcinolone, Methylprednisolone, Kenalog, Recicort
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never stop this medication abruptly unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian. Your pet's body stops making its own steroids while on this drug, and sudden withdrawal can cause a life-threatening crisis. * **Expected Changes:** It is very common for pets (especially dogs) to drink more water, urinate more frequently, and have a ravenous appetite while on this medication. Ensure they always have access to fresh water and frequent bathroom breaks. * **Panting:** Dogs may pant excessively; this is a common side effect. * **Behavior:** Some pets may become lethargic, depressed, or unusually irritable. * **When to Call the Vet:** Contact your veterinarian if you notice severe vomiting, dark/tarry stools (a sign of stomach ulcers), extreme weakness, or if the increased thirst/urination becomes unmanageable.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Anti-inflammatory (Prednisolone equivalent)
- Immunosuppressive (Prednisolone equivalent)
- Anti-inflammatory (Prednisolone equivalent)
- Immunosuppressive (Prednisolone equivalent)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Polyuria (PU), polydipsia (PD), and polyphagia (PP)
- Weight gain and fat redistribution
- Panting (especially in dogs)
- Dull, dry haircoat and alopecia
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal ulceration
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALP > ALT) and vacuolar hepatopathy (dogs)
- Pancreatitis
- Insulin resistance leading to or worsening diabetes mellitus
- Muscle wasting and weakness
- Behavioral changes (depression, lethargy, viciousness)
- Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's syndrome) with chronic use
- Laminitis (horses)
Cautions & contraindications
- Systemic fungal infections (unless used for physiologic replacement)
- Intramuscular administration in patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenia
- Known hypersensitivity to the specific compound
- Chronic use of sustained-release injectables for systemic diseases
- Concurrent use with NSAIDs (relative contraindication due to severe GI ulcer risk)
- Pregnant animals
- Renal disease (systemic use)
- Diabetes mellitus (systemic use)
- Systemic fungal infections
- Corneal ulcers
- Concurrent use of NSAIDs
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
- Late pregnancy (may induce abortion or parturition)
Drug interactions
- Amphotericin B: May cause hypokalemia when administered concomitantly
- Anticholinesterase agents (e.g., pyridostigmine): May lead to profound muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis patients; discontinue 24h prior if possible
- Aspirin (salicylates): Glucocorticoids may reduce salicylate blood levels; increased risk of GI ulceration
- Cyclophosphamide: Glucocorticoids may inhibit hepatic metabolism of cyclophosphamide
- Cyclosporine: May mutually inhibit hepatic metabolism, increasing blood levels of both drugs
- Digoxin: Increased risk for arrhythmias secondary to glucocorticoid-induced hypokalemia
- Diuretics (potassium-depleting, e.g., furosemide): May cause additive hypokalemia
- Ephedrine: May increase glucocorticoid metabolism
- Estrogens: May potentiate the effects of hydrocortisone and possibly other glucocorticoids
- Insulin: Insulin requirements may increase due to glucocorticoid-induced insulin resistance
Frequently asked questions
What is Glucocorticoids used for in pets?
> **CRITICAL WARNING:** Never stop this medication abruptly unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian. Your pet's body stops making its own steroids while on this drug, and sudden withdrawal can cause a life-threatening crisis. * **Expected Changes:** It is very common for pets (especially dogs) to drink more water, urinate more frequently, and have a ravenous appetite while on this medication. Ensure they always have access to fresh water and frequent bathroom breaks. * **Panting:** Dogs may pant excessively; this is a common side effect. * **Behavior:** Some pets may become lethargic, depressed, or unusually irritable. * **When to Call the Vet:** Contact your veterinarian if you notice severe vomiting, dark/tarry stools (a sign of stomach ulcers), extreme weakness, or if the increased thirst/urination becomes unmanageable.
Is Glucocorticoids safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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