prednisone

noun

pred·​ni·​sone ˈpred-nə-ˌsōn 

also

-ˌzōn 

: a glucocorticoid C₂₁H₂₆O₅ that is a dehydrogenated analog of cortisone and is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, as an antineoplastic agent, and as an immunosuppressant

Examples of prednisone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

She was given antibiotics and prednisone, a drug that reduces inflammation. —Graham Rayman, New York Daily News, 23 July 2024

Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine, prednisone, and Rituxan (rituximab) can help control some primary causes of nephrotic syndrome. —Kashif J. Piracha, Verywell Health, 12 July 2024

Corticosteroids: Some corticosteroids, like prednisone, can be combined with chemotherapy treatment to improve symptoms. —Barbara Brody, Health, 9 June 2024

What’s more, Schulte suffered a severe allergic reaction to the infusion therapy, requiring a heavy dose of prednisone, a steroid with grave side effects if used at high doses for too long. —Tribune News Service, Hartford Courant, 3 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably from pregnane (C₂₁H₃₆) + diene (compound containing two double bonds) + cortisone

First Known Use

1955, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

prednisone

noun

pred·​ni·​sone

ˈpred-nə-ˌsōn also -ˌzōn

: a glucocorticoid C₂₁H₂₆O₅ that is a dehydrogenated analog of cortisone and is used as an anti-inflammatory agent, as an antineoplastic agent, and as an immunosuppressant