Prednisolone and prednisone, formerly called metacortandralone and metacortandracin, are two new synthetic hormones, which, milligram for milligram, possess greater anti-inflammatory effect and activity than cortisone or hydrocortisone and do not produce sodium and fluid retention or potassium depletion.
Prednisolone is produced by dehydrogenation at Positions 1 and 2 of the hydrocortisone nucleus. It is an analogue of hydrocortisone, while prednisone is an analogue of cortisone and is produced by dehydrogenation at Positions 1 and 2 of the cortisone nucleus.
As part of a research project to determine the effects of the various corticosteroids on skin electrolytes, the following is a preliminary report on the clinical effects of both topical and oral administration of prednisolone in a variety of dermatologic disorders.
METHODS AND MATERIALS
Topical Administration.—Prednisolone in strengths of 0.25% and 0.5% was prepared in an ointment of petrolatum and liquid