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Corticosteroid converter


The potency and duration of action of the various glucocorticoids can vary greatly. Oral potency may be less than parenteral potency because significant amounts (up to 50% in some cases) may not reach the circulation. Cortisol is the standard of comparison for glucocorticoid potency.


Dose (mg): 

Conversion Data

Glucocorticoid Approximate Equivalent dose (mg) Half-life (Biologic) hours
Short-Acting
Cortisone    25 8-12
Hydrocortisone    20 8-12
Intermediate-Acting
Methylprednisolone 4 18-36
Prednisolone 5 18-36
Prednisone 5 18-36
Triamcinolone 4 18-36
Long-Acting
Betamethasone 0.6 - 0.75 36-54
Dexamethasone 0.75 36-54

References
Dixon JS. Second-line Agents in the Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases. Informa Health Care, 1991. (456).

Meikle AW and Tyler FH. Potency and duration of action of glucocorticoids. Am J of Med 1977;63;200.

Webb R, Singer M. Oxford Handbook of Critical Care. Oxford ; New York : Oxford University Press, 2005.
Corticosteroid -Glucocorticoid Conversion based on potency