Steroid Conversion Calculator 💉
Convert between different corticosteroid preparations using prednisolone as the reference standard.
Overview
- Convert between different corticosteroid preparations safely
- Uses prednisolone as the reference standard (1mg prednisolone = baseline)
- Accounts for different routes of administration (oral, IV, IM)
- Important for switching between steroids or converting doses
Key Conversions
- Prednisolone ↔ Prednisone: 1:1 (essentially equivalent)
- Prednisolone ↔ Methylprednisolone: 1mg prednisolone = 0.8mg methylprednisolone (divide by 1.25)
- Prednisolone ↔ Dexamethasone: 1mg prednisolone = 0.15mg dexamethasone (divide by ~6.67)
- Prednisolone ↔ Hydrocortisone: 1mg prednisolone = 4mg hydrocortisone (multiply by 4)
- Prednisolone ↔ Betamethasone: 1mg prednisolone = 0.15mg betamethasone (similar to dexamethasone)
- Prednisolone ↔ Cortisone: 1mg prednisolone = 5mg cortisone (multiply by 5)
Important Notes
- Conversions are based on anti-inflammatory potency, not mineralocorticoid activity
- Route of administration: IV and IM doses are generally equivalent to oral for most steroids
- Always consider clinical context and patient factors when converting
- Duration of action differs between steroids (e.g., dexamethasone is longer-acting)
- Monitor patients closely after conversion, especially if changing from long-acting to short-acting steroids
- Consider tapering if converting from high-dose to lower-dose equivalent
Clinical Considerations
- Dexamethasone: Longer half-life, may be given once daily vs multiple daily doses for prednisolone
- Hydrocortisone: Shorter-acting, often used for adrenal replacement (requires multiple daily doses)
- Methylprednisolone: Similar to prednisolone, often used for IV pulse therapy
- Route changes: Generally equivalent doses between oral/IV/IM for most steroids
- Always verify conversions with local guidelines and consult specialists if uncertain
Related Topics
Steroid Conversion Calculator
Convert between different corticosteroid preparations