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. |
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