Linola H Fett N (Prednisolone)

Prednisolone is a topical glucocorticoid used to manage inflammatory skin disorders.

• Atopic dermatitis: decreases redness, itching and swelling.
• Psoriasis: limits plaque formation and scaling.
• Contact dermatitis: relieves irritation caused by allergens or irritants.

• Prednisolone penetrates the skin and binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus. This complex interacts with glucocorticoid response elements, altering gene transcription to suppress pro‑inflammatory cytokines, reduce leukocyte migration, and inhibit mediators of the immune response, thereby decreasing inflammation and immune activity in the skin.

Topical prednisolone can cause local and systemic adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑ and duration‑dependent.

Common Side Effects

• Skin atrophy: thinning of the epidermis with prolonged use.
• Telangiectasia: visible small blood vessels on treated areas.
• Burning or stinging sensation on application.
• Pruritus: itching that may develop after initial relief.
• Hypopigmentation: lightening of skin color.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Systemic corticosteroid effects: adrenal suppression with extensive application.
• Secondary infection: bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections.
• Allergic contact dermatitis: hypersensitivity to the formulation.
• Delayed wound healing: impaired tissue repair.
• Hypertrichosis: excessive hair growth on treated skin.

When prescribing or using topical prednisolone, consider the following safety measures.

• Limit duration: avoid continuous use beyond the recommended period to reduce risk of skin atrophy.
• Avoid occlusion: do not cover treated area with airtight dressings unless directed by a clinician.
• Infected skin: do not apply to areas with active bacterial, viral or fungal infection without treating the infection first.
• Sensitive areas: use with caution on thin skin (face, genitalia) to minimize systemic absorption.
• Pediatric use: monitor children closely for growth suppression and systemic effects.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Prednisolone may interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic corticosteroids: concurrent use can increase risk of adrenal suppression and systemic side effects.
• Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): may raise local prednisolone concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antifungal agents (e.g., clotrimazole): may enhance local immunosuppression.
• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): increase risk of skin irritation when used together.
• Vaccines: live vaccines may be less effective if systemic absorption occurs.