Steron syrup is used to treat blood disorders-associated allergies, inflammation, and skin issues. It belongs to the class of drugs known as glucocorticoids, which have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. The following are some common and off-label uses and indications of Steron Syrup:

Common Uses of Steron Syrup

  1. Inflammatory Conditions: Steron syrup is often used to reduce inflammation in various conditions such as:
    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
    • Inflammatory bowel diseases (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
    • Dermatologic conditions with inflammation, like eczema or psoriasis
  2. Allergic Reactions: Stern syrup can manage severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
  3. Respiratory Conditions: Steron syrup may be used for respiratory conditions characterized by inflammation, such as:
    • Asthma
    • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
    • Allergic rhinitis
  4. Autoimmune Disorders: Steron syrup is used to treat certain autoimmune disorders where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.
  5. Certain Cancers: In some cases, Steron syrup may be part of the treatment plan for certain types of cancers, particularly lymphomas or leukemias.
  6. Organ Transplants: Steron syrup is sometimes used as part of immunosuppressive therapy to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs.
  7. Skin Conditions: Stron syrup can be used for severe skin conditions with inflammation, such as severe eczema or dermatitis.
  8. Nephrotic Syndrome: Steron syrup may be used in the treatment of nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder characterized by proteinuria, edema, and hypoalbuminemia.

Off-label Uses of Steron Syrup

  1. Croup: Steron syrup might be used to manage the inflammation and airway narrowing associated with croup, a viral infection that causes a barking cough and breathing difficulties in young children.
  2. Eczema Flare-ups: Steron syrup could be used for short-term management of severe eczema flare-ups when other treatments have been ineffective.
  3. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): In addition to approved uses for autoimmune disorders, Steron might be used off-label to manage certain symptoms or flares of SLE.
  4. Chronic Hives: In cases of chronic urticaria (hives), where symptoms persist for more than six weeks, Steron could potentially be considered as a short-term intervention.
  5. Hemolytic Anemia: Steron might be used to suppress the immune response in certain cases of hemolytic anemia, a condition where the body destroys its own red blood cells.
  6. Sarcoidosis: While corticosteroids are used for treating sarcoidosis, Steron could be considered off-label for managing the inflammation associated with this condition.
  7. Autoimmune Hepatitis: Steron may be used as part of the treatment regimen for autoimmune hepatitis, an inflammatory liver disease.
  8. Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: Steron is commonly used for nephrotic syndrome, and its use might extend to specific cases in children.
  9. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbations: Steron syrup could potentially be considered as part of treatment for severe exacerbations of COPD.
Steron Syrup Uses and Indications

What is Steron?

Steron Syrup is one of the leading brands of Prednisolone, manufactured and marketed by Xenon Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Steron Alternatives : Prednisolone Other Brands

The following are some alternative brands of Steron Syrup and their manufacturers.

Neupred : Neutro Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Persolon : Shaheen Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.

Steron : Xenon Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Rapicort : Tabros Pharma, Pakistan.

Steron : Available Formulations and Strengths

Presently, Steron is available in Syrup form.

Steron Syrup : 15mg/5ml strength.

Who Should Not Use Steron?

Steron syrup, like any medication, has certain contraindications, which are specific situations or conditions in which its use is not recommended due to potential risks.

  1. Hypersensitivity or Allergy: If you have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Prednisolone or any of the ingredients in the syrup, you should avoid its use.
  2. Active Infections: Steron can suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections. It is generally not recommended to use Steron if you have an active bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infection.
  3. Certain Vaccinations: Steron can reduce the effectiveness of live vaccines, and it’s generally recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking the medication.
  4. Peptic Ulcer Disease: Steron can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation, so it should be used with caution or avoided in individuals with active or recent peptic ulcer disease.
  5. Severe Cardiovascular Conditions: Steron can cause fluid retention and increased blood pressure, so it might not be recommended for individuals with severe heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, or other serious cardiovascular conditions.
  6. Glaucoma: Corticosteroids, including Steron, can increase intraocular pressure and worsen glaucoma. Individuals with glaucoma should use Steron with caution and under medical supervision.
  7. Diabetes: Steron can raise blood sugar levels and affect glucose tolerance. Individuals with diabetes should use the medication cautiously and monitor their blood sugar levels closely.
  8. Osteoporosis: Long-term use of Steron can lead to bone loss and increase the risk of fractures. Individuals with osteoporosis or at risk of osteoporosis should use Steron with caution.
  9. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Steron can cross the placenta and be excreted in breast milk. The use of Steron during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered and monitored by a healthcare professional.
  10. Immune Suppression: Individuals with certain conditions that lead to immune suppression, such as HIV/AIDS, should use Steron with caution, as it can further suppress the immune system.
  11. Psychiatric Disorders: Steron can affect mood and behavior, potentially exacerbating psychiatric conditions. It should be used cautiously in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders.
  12. Recent Surgery: Steron can impair wound healing and increase the risk of infections, so its use might be avoided in the immediate postoperative period.

Recommended Daily Dosage of Steron Syrup

Steron Syrup Dose for Anti-Inflammatory and Immunosuppressive Conditions:

  • Adults: 5 mg to 60 mg per day, depending on the condition and severity. The dose may be divided into 2 to 4 doses throughout the day.
  • Children: The initial dose for children may vary based on the child’s weight and the specific condition being treated.

Steron Syrup Dose for Asthma and Allergic Reactions:

  • Adults and Children: 5 mg to 60 mg per day, depending on the severity. The dose may be divided into multiple doses.

Steron Syrup Dose for Other Conditions:

  • The dosage for other conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, skin conditions, and organ transplantation, varies widely based on the specific condition and individual factors.

How Steron Works?

Steron is a synthetic corticosteroid medication that exerts its effects by mimicking the actions of natural corticosteroid hormones produced by the adrenal glands. It has a wide range of anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and metabolic effects on the body. Here’s an overview of the mode of action of Steron:

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Steron acts to suppress the body’s immune response and inflammation. It inhibits the production of various pro-inflammatory substances, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, which play a role in the inflammatory process.
By reducing inflammation, Steron can help alleviate symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and heat associated with inflammatory conditions.
Immunosuppressive Effects:

Steron dampens the immune system’s activity. It suppresses the production and function of immune cells, particularly T cells, B cells, and macrophages.
This immunosuppressive action is beneficial in preventing the immune system from attacking the body’s own tissues in autoimmune disorders or rejecting transplanted organs.

Metabolic Effects:

Steron affects carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. It can increase blood sugar levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and reducing glucose uptake by cells.
It also affects protein breakdown and can lead to muscle wasting in prolonged use.

Stabilization of Cell Membranes:

Steron stabilizes cell membranes, reducing the release of inflammatory mediators and other substances that contribute to the inflammatory response.

Reduction of Capillary Permeability:

Steron helps reduce capillary permeability, which can lead to decreased leakage of fluids and proteins into tissues, contributing to the resolution of swelling.

Anti-Allergic Effects:

Steron can suppress allergic reactions by inhibiting the release of histamine and other chemicals from immune cells.