Uses | • acute gout • acute rheumatic fever • systemic lupus erythematosus • contact dermatitis • exfoliative dermatitis • erythema multiforme • neurodermatitis • multiple sclerosis • pemphigus foliaceous and vulgaris • status asthmaticus • urticaria • ulcerative colitis |
Contraindications, drug interactions or cautions | Contraindications • systemic fungal infections Drug interactions • phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin |
Adverse Effects (common and severe) | • fluid and electrolyte disturbances • hypertension • osteoporosis • muscle weakness • cushingoid state • menstrual irregularities • impaired wound healing • convulsions • ulcerative esophagitis • excessive sweating • increased intracranial pressure • glaucoma • abdominal distention • headache • decreased carbohydrate tolerance |
Instructions and dose (initial; typical) | 4mg;4 - 48 mg/day |
Monitoring | • glycosolated Hb (HbA1C) or fasting glucose with chronic use |
Source of Suggestion | WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (Added on August, 2015) |