Steroid Conversion Calculator (Prednisone Equivalent)
Convert between corticosteroid doses using standard glucocorticoid equivalents. Example: 20 mg of prednisone is equivalent to 3 mg of dexamethasone, 16 mg of methylprednisolone or 80 mg of hydrocortisone.
Show steps
How to use the Steroid Conversion Calculator (Prednisone Equivalent)
- Enter the values in the fields.
- Press Calculate to see the result with the steps shown.
Formula and method
Equivalent dose = dose x (target steroid equivalent mg / starting steroid equivalent mg). Anti-inflammatory equivalents: hydrocortisone 20, cortisone 25, prednisone 5, prednisolone 5, methylprednisolone 4, triamcinolone 4, dexamethasone 0.75, betamethasone 0.6 mg.
Glucocorticoid equivalence table
| Steroid | Equivalent dose | Biological half-life |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone | 20 mg | 8 to 12 hours |
| Cortisone | 25 mg | 8 to 12 hours |
| Prednisone | 5 mg | 12 to 36 hours |
| Prednisolone | 5 mg | 12 to 36 hours |
| Methylprednisolone | 4 mg | 12 to 36 hours |
| Triamcinolone | 4 mg | 12 to 36 hours |
| Dexamethasone | 0.75 mg | 36 to 72 hours |
| Betamethasone | 0.6 mg | 36 to 72 hours |
Example conversions
| Starting dose | Prednisone equivalent |
|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone 20 mg | 5 mg |
| Methylprednisolone 32 mg | 40 mg |
| Dexamethasone 6 mg | 40 mg |
| Prednisolone 10 mg | 10 mg |
Mineralocorticoid effect
Hydrocortisone and cortisone retain more salt and water than dexamethasone, which has almost none. This matters for blood pressure and potassium.
Cautions
This calculator is for education and is not medical advice. Never change or start a medicine without the advice of a pharmacist or prescriber, and always follow the label.
Frequently asked questions
What is the equivalent of 5 mg prednisone?
20 mg hydrocortisone, 4 mg methylprednisolone or 0.75 mg dexamethasone.
Is dexamethasone stronger than prednisone?
About 6.7 times more potent per mg.
Can I switch steroids on my own?
No.
Why is prednisone not the same as prednisolone?
They have the same potency; prednisone is converted to prednisolone in the liver.
How long do steroids last?
From 8 to 72 hours depending on the drug.
Are equivalents the same for all uses?
They compare systemic anti-inflammatory strength.
Sources
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