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

What readers are saying The comments reflect a wide range of personal experiences with prednisone, highlighting its dual nature as both a life-saving and problematic drug. — Erica Sloan, Washington Post, 25 Sep. 2026

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, low-dose steroids such as prednisone and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs may help alleviate the joint pain. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

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

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