1258 / 1266
Glucocorticoid
Potency
Plasma
half-life (h)
Biological
half-life (h)
Mineralo-
corticoid effects
Hydrocortisone
1
8-12
1
Prednisone
5
3-4
12-36
0.8
Methylprednisolone
4
1.5-3
12-36
0.5
Dexamethasone
~ 30
2-5
36-54
0
Steroids: which compound?
•
Least amount of mineralocorticoid activity
=> Low rate of fluid retention
•
Long biological half-life
=> frequent dosing not required
Advantages of
dexamethasone: