Which are examples of intermediate-acting glucocorticoids?

• A. Prednisone and Methylprednisolone
• B. Hydrocortisone and Cortisone
• C. Dexamethasone and Betamethasone
• D. Triamcinolone and Fluticasone

Answer: (A)

Glucocorticoids are grouped by how long their effects last: short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting. The intermediate-acting group lasts longer than the short-acting ones but not as long as the long-acting ones, which makes them convenient for systemic therapy with a balanced dosing schedule. Prednisone is a prodrug that is converted in the liver to the active prednisolone, giving anti-inflammatory effects with a mid-range duration. Methylprednisolone is already active and shares a similar duration of action. Together, they exemplify the middle category because their effects typically persist long enough for convenient dosing without the prolonged suppression seen with long-acting steroids. By contrast, short-acting options like hydrocortisone and cortisone are mainly used for replacement and have quicker waning effects, while long-acting ones such as dexamethasone and betamethasone provide prolonged suppression. Triamcinolone and fluticasone have durations that place them outside this middle group in common practice, depending on the route, so they don’t fit as cleanly.