Store at controlled room temperature 15°- 30° C (59° - 86° F).
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Do not use in viral infections. Prednisone, like methylprednisolone, is contraindicated in animals with peptic ulcer, corneal ulcer, and Cushingoid syndrome. The presence of diabetes, osteoporosis, predisposition to thrombophlebitis, hypertension, congestive heart failure, renal insufficiency, and active tuberculosis necessitates carefully controlled use. Some of the above conditions occur only rarely in dogs but should be kept in mind.
Prednisone is similar to methylprednisolone in regard to kinds of side effects and metabolic alterations to be anticipated when treatment is intensive or prolonged. In animal patients with diabetes mellitus, use of prednisone may be associated with an increase in the insulin requirement. Negative nitrogen balance may occur, particularly in animals that require protracted maintenance therapy; measures to counteract persistent nitrogen loss include a high protein intake and the administration, when indicated, of a suitable anabolic agent. Excessive loss of potassium, like excessive retention of sodium, is not likely to be induced by effective maintenance doses of prednisone. However, these effects should be kept in mind and the usual regulatory measures employed as indicated. Ecchymotic manifestations in dogs may occur. If such reactions do occur and are serious, reduction in dose or discontinuance of prednisone therapy may be indicated. Side effects, such as SAP and SALT enzyme elevations, weight loss, anorexia, polydipsia and polyuria have occurred following the use of synthetic cortico-steroids in dogs. Vomiting and diarrhea (occasionally bloody) have also been observed. Cushing's syndrome in dogs has been reported in association with prolonged or repeated steroid therapy.
Since prednisone, like methylprednisolone, suppresses endogenous adrenocortical activity, it is highly important that the animal patient receiving prednisone be under careful observation, not only during the course of treatment but for some time after treatment is terminated. Adequate adrenocortical supportive therapy with cortisone or hydrocortisone, and including ACTH, must be employed promptly if the animal is subjected to any unusual stress such as surgery, trauma, or severe infection.