Which class of glucocorticoids includes prednisone as an example?

• A. Intermediate-acting
• B. Short-acting
• C. Long-acting
• D. Ultra-short acting

Answer: (B)

Glucocorticoids are grouped by how long they exert effects after dosing: ultra-short, short, intermediate, and long-acting. Prednisone is an intermediate-acting glucocorticoid because it is a prodrug that must be converted in the liver to its active form, prednisolone, and its anti-inflammatory effects last roughly 12 to 36 hours. This duration places it between short-acting agents like hydrocortisone (about 8–12 hours) and long-acting agents like dexamethasone (up to 36–72 hours). Other drugs in the same intermediate class include prednisolone and methylprednisolone. The classification helps guide dosing frequency and the risk of HPA axis suppression.