Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications used to treat a wide variety of conditions. In children, oral corticosteroids like prednisolone are primarily used short-term for managing acute asthma attacks or croup. Because they can affect growth and cause other serious side effects with prolonged use, they must only be used under strict medical supervision.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage of corticosteroids must be tailored individually by a physician based on the specific condition, severity, and child's weight. The guide below represents typical short-course dosing for acute respiratory conditions (e.g., prednisolone at approximately 1-2 mg/kg/day). Always follow your doctor's exact instructions.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Determined strictly by a pediatrician
- Frequency
- Once daily or as prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Not recommended for routine home use. High risk of side effects in infants.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 5 mg to 10 mg (depending on severity)
- Frequency
- Once daily in the morning
- Tracking Notes
- Take with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Typically prescribed for 3 to 5 days.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 8 mg to 15 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily in the morning
- Tracking Notes
- For oral liquid, use the measuring syringe provided. Do not double doses.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 11 mg to 20 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily in the morning
- Tracking Notes
- Short courses (under 10-14 days) can usually be stopped abruptly without tapering, but consult your doctor.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 16 mg to 30 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily in the morning
- Tracking Notes
- Morning dosing mimics the body's natural cortisol release and helps prevent insomnia.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Determined strictly by a pediatrician | Once daily or as prescribed | Not recommended for routine home use. High risk of side effects in infants. |
| 5-7 kg | 5 mg to 10 mg (depending on severity) | Once daily in the morning | Take with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Typically prescribed for 3 to 5 days. |
| 8-10 kg | 8 mg to 15 mg | Once daily in the morning | For oral liquid, use the measuring syringe provided. Do not double doses. |
| 11-15 kg | 11 mg to 20 mg | Once daily in the morning | Short courses (under 10-14 days) can usually be stopped abruptly without tapering, but consult your doctor. |
| 16-20 kg | 16 mg to 30 mg | Once daily in the morning | Morning dosing mimics the body's natural cortisol release and helps prevent insomnia. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat severe inflammatory conditions, acute asthma exacerbations, croup, severe allergic reactions, and autoimmune diseases.
Generic Name
Prednisolone / Dexamethasone / MethylprednisoloneBranded Drug Names
Corticosteroids is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.