10
Tables
Table 1. Pharmacologic Characteristics of Commonly
Prescribed Systemic Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids
Approximate equivalent
dose
1
Glucocorticoid potency
(relative to hydrocortisone)
1,2
Short-acting glucocorticoids with lower potency
Hydrocortisone 20 mg 1.0
Cortisone acetate 25 mg 0.8
Deflazacort 7.5 mg 1.0
Intermediate-acting glucocorticoids with moderate potency
Prednisone 5 mg 4.0
Prednisolone 5 mg 4.0
Triamcinolone 4 mg 5.0
Methylprednisolone 4 mg 5.0
Long-acting glucocorticoids with highest potency
Dexamethasone 0.5 mg 30–60
Betamethasone 0.5 mg 25–40
1
ese are estimates based on historically accepted conversion factors and should be seen
as a guide only. ere can be considerable variation depending on factors such as route
of administration, the individual patient's metabolism and susceptibility.
2
Glucocorticoid potency equivalences apply to oral and/or intravenous administration.
Mineralocorticoid effects are not considered.
3
Plasma half-life does not reflect the biological half-life.
