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

Long-term use of medications like prednisone and conditions like overactive thyroid also raise risk in ways worth flagging with a doctor. —Allison Palmer updated June 3, Sacbee.com, 3 June 2026

And some medications—including corticosteroids (like prednisone) and certain weight-loss drugs (like Orlistat)—can reduce vitamin D absorption. —Stacey Colino, Time, 30 Jan. 2026

Steroids Steroids like prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone help calm inflammation. —Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 9 Dec. 2025

Using the steroid prednisone during pregnancy, for example, may cause a cleft lip or palate birth defect. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 23 Sep. 2025

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