Corticosteroid Dosing Equivalence

• conversion can be calculated using the online calculator at http://www.globalrph.com/corticocalc.htm

Predisolone - Hydrocortisone Equivalence

• prednisolone 5mg = hydrocortisone 20mg in terms of equivalent anti-inflammatory dose 
• hydrocortisone tablets have a high bioavailability, the oral and intravenous (IV) doses of hydrocortisone tend to be the same
• equivalent anti-inflammatory dose reported for these steroids is based on the total daily dose. thus, daily dose of prednisolone should be converted to the daily dose of hydrocortisone and either be divided over three to four doses per day or be given as a continuous 24-hour infusion
• peri-operative dose of hydrocortisone required may be higher than the equivalent prednisolone dose usually taken by the patient

Summary of Activity:

References:

1. http://www.globalrph.com/corticocalc.htm
2. http://www.aacijournal.com/content/9/1/30/table/T3
3. What is the equivalent dose of oral prednisolone to intravenous (IV) hydrocortisone? at www.evidence.nhs.uk