What is My Prednisone Dose? 2026 Steroid Dosage Calculator

Starting Dose	Week 1	Week 2	Week 3	Week 4	Week 5
60 mg	50 mg	40 mg	30 mg	20 mg	10 mg
40 mg	35 mg	30 mg	25 mg	20 mg	15 mg
20 mg	17.5 mg	15 mg	12.5 mg	10 mg	7.5 mg
10 mg	7.5 mg	5 mg	2.5 mg	stop	-

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct prednisone starting dose?

Prednisone starting dose depends on the condition being treated. Typical doses: Acute inflammation/asthma: 40-60 mg daily. Autoimmune conditions: 10-20 mg daily. Severe conditions: up to 80 mg daily. Short-term high doses are common. Always follow your doctor's prescribed dose.

How do I taper off prednisone?

Prednisone taper schedule depends on duration and dose taken. Short courses (<3 weeks) can often be stopped without taper. Longer courses require gradual reduction: Reduce by 2.5-5 mg every 3-7 days. Below 10 mg, taper slower. Our calculator creates a personalized taper schedule based on your dose and duration.

What are the side effects of prednisone?

Common side effects: increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, mood changes, fluid retention, high blood sugar. Long-term: osteoporosis, adrenal suppression, cataracts, glaucoma. Take with food to reduce stomach upset. Never stop abruptly after long-term use - taper required.

How do I convert prednisone to methylprednisolone?

Conversion: 5 mg prednisone = 4 mg methylprednisolone. Example: 40 mg prednisone = 32 mg methylprednisolone. For IV to oral: methylprednisolone IV dose is same as oral prednisone dose. Our calculator includes all corticosteroid conversions.

How long does prednisone stay in your system?

Prednisone has a half-life of 3-4 hours, but its effects last 18-36 hours. It takes about 5 half-lives (15-20 hours) to clear from blood. However, adrenal suppression from long-term use can last weeks to months after stopping.

What should I avoid while taking prednisone?

Avoid: Live vaccines, alcohol (increases stomach bleeding risk), NSAIDs like ibuprofen (increases ulcer risk), grapefruit juice (increases drug levels). Take with food to protect stomach. Monitor blood sugar if diabetic. Inform all doctors you're on steroids.

Can I take prednisone for COVID-19?

Dexamethasone (not prednisone) is approved for severe COVID-19 requiring oxygen. Prednisone may be used in certain cases. Never take steroids for COVID-19 without doctor supervision. Steroids can be harmful in mild cases. Follow current NIH guidelines.

What is prednisone withdrawal?

Prednisone withdrawal occurs when stopped abruptly after long-term use. Symptoms: fatigue, joint pain, fever, low blood pressure, nausea. This is due to adrenal suppression. Always taper slowly under medical supervision. Withdrawal can be dangerous if not managed properly.

⚠️ CRITICAL MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

NOT MEDICAL ADVICE: This prednisone dosage calculator is for EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. Corticosteroids have serious side effects and must be managed by a healthcare professional.

ADRENAL SUPPRESSION: Long-term steroid use suppresses adrenal function. Abrupt cessation can cause life-threatening adrenal crisis. Always taper under medical supervision.

REGULAR MONITORING: Patients on long-term steroids need regular monitoring of bone density, blood sugar, blood pressure, and eye exams.

EMERGENCY CONTACT: If you experience severe abdominal pain, black stools, confusion, or severe weakness, call 911 immediately. For overdose, call Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.

Last Update: March 10, 2026 | Next Review: October 1, 2026