Corticosteroid Conversion
Calculate equivalent doses between corticosteroids
Conversion Result
Current Dose
Equivalent Dose
Relative potency:
Equivalence Table
Anti-inflammatory doses equivalent to 5 mg prednisolone
| Corticosteroid | Dose (mg) | Potency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone | 20 | Low | Short (8–12 h) |
| Cortisone | 25 | Low | Short (8–12 h) |
| Prednisone | 5 | Intermediate | Intermediate (12–36 h) |
| Prednisolone | 5 | Intermediate | Intermediate (12–36 h) |
| Methylprednisolone | 4 | Intermediate | Intermediate (12–36 h) |
| Deflazacort * | 6 | Intermediate | Intermediate (12–36 h) |
| Dexamethasone | 0.75 | High | Long (36–72 h) |
| Betamethasone | 0.6 | High | Long (36–72 h) |
* Deflazacort equivalence varies between sources: the BNF cites 6 mg = 5 mg prednisolone; some references use 7.5 mg = 5 mg prednisolone. Check your institutional protocol.
Clinical Considerations
Anti-inflammatory equivalence
Doses are based on relative anti-inflammatory potency. Mineralocorticoid activity varies between corticosteroids and should be considered when selecting therapy.
Conversions in practice
Conversions are approximate and may vary depending on the clinical indication, route of administration and individual patient response. Individual adjustments may be necessary.
Mineralocorticoid activity
Hydrocortisone and cortisone have clinically relevant mineralocorticoid activity. Dexamethasone and betamethasone have minimal mineralocorticoid activity and are not suitable for adrenal replacement.
Note: This calculator provides conversions based on standard anti-inflammatory equivalences. The optimal dose should be adjusted individually based on clinical condition, treatment response and adverse effects. Never stop corticosteroids abruptly without medical guidance.
References
- 1. Liu D, et al. "A practical guide to the monitoring and management of the complications of systemic corticosteroid therapy." Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2013;9(1):30. PubMed ↗
- 2. Buttgereit F, da Silva JAP, Boers M, et al. "Standardised nomenclature for glucocorticoid dosages and glucocorticoid treatment regimens." Ann Rheum Dis. 2002;61(8):718–722. PubMed ↗