Intermediate-acting glucocorticoids have a duration of how many hours?

• A. 12-36 hours
• B. 24-72 hours
• C. 6-12 hours
• D. 48-96 hours

Answer: (A)

Durations of glucocorticoids are typically grouped to match how long their anti-inflammatory effects last. Intermediate-acting agents—like prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone—provide activity for about 12 to 36 hours. This places them between the shorter-acting options (roughly 6–12 hours) and the longer-acting ones (about 36–72 hours). So, the span that characterizes the intermediate-acting class is 12–36 hours. This duration influences how often they’re given—often once daily—and helps balance effective control with minimizing suppression of the body's own cortisol production.