Prednisone: An Overview

Summary

• ‍BRAND: Deltasone^®, Liquid Pred^®, Meticorten^®, Orasone^®‍
• DRUG TYPE: Prescription steroid drug‍
• CONDITIONS TREATED: Allergies, inflammation, autoimmune disease and certain forms of cancer‍
• ADMINISTRATION: Oral tablet or liquid‍
• CYCLES OF TREATMENT: Doses of prednisone are given daily‍
• SIDE EFFECTS: Increased appetite, excessive thirst, excessive urination, vomiting, and diarrhea‍

What Is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid drug that is commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat allergies, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders. However, it is also used as part of the CHOP protocol for treating canine lymphoma. Prednisone has been used in medical practice for over 70 years and is one of the most widely used corticosteroid drugs in both human and veterinary medicine.

While prednisone is not specifically an anti-cancer drug like the other drugs in the CHOP protocol, it has immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a valuable addition to the protocol. Additionally, prednisone can help reduce side effects from other chemotherapy drugs and improve the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

How Does Prednisone Work?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation. It does this by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in cells and triggering changes in gene expression that reduce inflammation and suppress immune function.

In the context of lymphoma treatment, prednisone's immunosuppressive properties can help reduce the proliferation of lymphoma cells. Additionally, prednisone can help reduce the side effects associated with chemotherapy such as nausea, vomiting, and inflammation.

Why Is Prednisone Used in the CHOP Protocol?

The CHOP protocol (Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Oncovin [Vincristine], and Prednisone) is considered the "gold standard" treatment for canine lymphoma. Each drug in the protocol works through a different mechanism, and together they attack the cancer cells from multiple angles, increasing the likelihood of remission.

Prednisone's role in the CHOP protocol is to provide immunosuppression and reduce inflammation, which can help slow the growth of lymphoma cells and reduce the side effects of the other chemotherapy drugs. When combined with the other three drugs in the CHOP protocol, each attacking the cancer cells in a different way, the likelihood of achieving remission in canine lymphoma increases significantly.

Dosage and Administration

Prednisone is administered orally (by mouth) as either a tablet or a liquid. The dose is typically calculated based on the patient's weight and the condition being treated. For lymphoma treatment as part of the CHOP protocol, a typical dose ranges from 0.5-2.0 mg/kg daily.

In the CHOP protocol, prednisone is given daily throughout the treatment period. Unlike the injectable chemotherapy drugs (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and vincristine) which are given periodically, prednisone is typically given every single day. This daily dosing is important for achieving the desired immunosuppressive effect.

Side Effects and Monitoring

Like all medications, prednisone can cause side effects. The most common side effects of prednisone in dogs include:

• Increased appetite: This is one of the most common side effects of prednisone. Dogs on prednisone may become obsessed with food and beg constantly.
• Excessive thirst and urination: Prednisone can increase thirst and urination, so your dog may need more frequent bathroom breaks.
• Panting: Prednisone can cause dogs to pant excessively.
• Vomiting and diarrhea: Some dogs may experience gastrointestinal side effects from prednisone.
• Weakness and lethargy: Some dogs may experience general weakness or lethargy.
• Thinning skin or hair loss: Long-term use of prednisone can lead to thinning skin or hair loss.

Your veterinary oncologist will monitor your dog closely during treatment to watch for these side effects and adjust dosing as needed.

Drug Interactions

Prednisone can interact with other medications. Tell your veterinarian about any other medications your dog is taking, including supplements. Some medications can increase the risk of side effects when combined with prednisone.

Cost

Prednisone is a very inexpensive drug, particularly if generic versions are used. The cost can vary depending on the dose and formulation, but typically ranges from $10 to $50 per month. This makes prednisone one of the most affordable components of the CHOP protocol.

Conclusion

Prednisone is an important component of the CHOP protocol for treating canine lymphoma. While it is not itself a chemotherapy drug, its immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to the protocol. Prednisone can help slow lymphoma progression and reduce the side effects of other chemotherapy drugs. Though prednisone does have side effects that need to be managed, it is generally well-tolerated in dogs and is an essential part of the CHOP treatment approach.