Orapred ODT

Generic name: Prednisolone sodium phosphate

What is Orapred ODT?

Orapred ODT is a prescription medicine used for a variety of conditions as determined by your doctor. Some may include: severe allergies that cannot be otherwise treated, in adults and children with asthma (or asthma caused by different medical conditions), skin diseases, kidney problems in people with lupus (such as proteinuria), stomach problems (such as ulcers), leukemia and lymphomas, multiple sclerosis, eye problems, rheumatologic issues (such as rheumatoid arthritis), tuberculosis, and meningitis.

What is the most important information I should know about Orapred ODT?

Do not stop your course of Orapred ODT treatment abruptly. Patients on immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids should be warned to avoid exposure to chickenpox and measles. If you are exposed to chicken pox or measles, seek medical advice without delay. While being treated with Orapred ODT, live vaccines should not be given, as this drug may suppress your immune system. Killed or inactivated vaccines can be administered, but the body's response cannot be predicted.

Who should not take Orapred ODT?

Do not take Orapred ODT if you have a fungal infection or if you are allergic to the drug or any of its components. Do not take Orapred ODT if you are receiving live or live attenuated vaccines.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Orapred ODT?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking to avoid an interaction with Orapred ODT. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure, heart problems, including congestive heart failure, kidney problems, stomach ulcers, a stomach infection, eye problems, if you are going through menopause, if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The initial dose of Orapred ODT may vary from 10 to 60 milligrams (mg) per day, depending on the specific disease entity being treated.

Multiple Sclerosis

The usual daily doses are 200 mg of prednisolone for a week, followed by 80 mg every other day or 4 to 8 mg dexamethasone every other day for one month.

Children: The initial dose of Orapred ODT may vary depending on the specific disease entity being treated. The range of initial doses is 0.14 to 2 mg per 2.2 pounds body weight per day in three or four divided doses.

Kidney Problems

The usual children's dosage is 60 mg/m²/day given in three divided doses for 4 weeks, followed by 4 weeks of single dose alternate-day therapy at 40 mg/m²/day.

Asthma Uncontrolled by an Inhaler

The usual children's dosage is 1-2 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight per day in single or divided doses.

How should I take Orapred ODT?

Do not remove Orapred ODT from its blister package until you are ready to use it. The blister pack should be peeled open, and the oral disintegrating tablet placed on your tongue, where tablets may be swallowed whole, or allowed to dissolve in the mouth, with or without the assistance of water.

What should I avoid while taking Orapred ODT?

Do not go for skin tests while on Orapred ODT. Do not break or use partial Orapred ODT tablets. Do not remove the tablet from the blister pack until right before you plan to use it.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Orapred ODT?

If Orapred is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Orapred with any of the following: amphotericin-B, antidiabetic drugs, aspirin, barbiturates, cyclosporine, digitalis glycosides, diuretics, ephedrine, estrogens, ketoconazole, live or live attenuated vaccines, phenytoin, rifampin, warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Orapred ODT?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blood in stool, congestive heart failure, convulsions, eye irritation, eyelid swelling, facial redness, headache, impaired wound healing, increased blood pressure, increased hair growth in areas that usually have minimal growth, itchy skin, loss of muscle mass, menstrual irregularities, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, nausea, stomach ulcers, sweating, swelling, tiredness, vertigo, weakness, weight gain

Can I receive Orapred ODT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Orapred ODT during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Orapred ODT?

If you miss a dose of Orapred ODT, skip that dose and take the next scheduled dose at the regular time. Do not double your dose.

How should I store Orapred ODT?

Store Orapred ODT at room temperature. Keep it away from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.