Corticosteroid Conversion Calculator
Convert between corticosteroids using potency equivalencies. Hydrocortisone 20mg = Prednisone 5mg = Methylprednisolone 4mg = Dexamethasone 0.75mg. Anti-inflammatory and mineralocorticoid potencies differ significantly.
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Why: This page explains what the Corticosteroid Conversion calculator does, what to enter, and how to read the results—without repeating the overview above.
How: Enter your values in the calculator fields below, keep units consistent, then run the calculation to see results and any step-by-step work shown on this page.
Run the calculator when you are ready.
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For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before acting on results.
Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory medications. Different steroids have varying potencies, so "equivalent doses" refer to amounts producing similar glucocorticoid effects. Hydrocortisone 20mg = Prednisone 5mg = Methylprednisolone 4mg = Dexamethasone 0.75mg. Anti-inflammatory and mineralocorticoid potencies differ significantly—dexamethasone has no mineralocorticoid activity.
Sources: UpToDate, Lexicomp, AHFS Drug Information.
Key Takeaways
- • Convert via prednisone equivalent: (Dose ÷ From Equiv) × 5
- • Target dose = (Pred Equiv ÷ 5) × Target Equiv
- • Consider duration (short/intermediate/long) when switching
- • Mineralocorticoid activity matters in heart failure, hypertension
Did You Know?
How Does Corticosteroid Conversion Work?
Step 1: Prednisone Equivalent
Convert current steroid to prednisone equivalent: (Current Dose ÷ From Equivalent) × 5. Example: 40mg prednisone = 40; 8mg dex = (8÷0.75)×5 ≈ 53mg pred.
Step 2: Target Steroid Dose
Convert prednisone equivalent to target: (Pred Equiv ÷ 5) × Target Equivalent. Example: 40mg pred to methylpred = (40÷5)×4 = 32mg.
Clinical Considerations
Consider half-life (dosing frequency), mineralocorticoid effects (edema, hypokalemia), and indication-specific preferences.
Expert Tips
Corticosteroid Equivalence Table
| Steroid | Equivalent (mg) | Half-Life | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prednisone | 5 mg | 12-36 hrs | Intermediate |
| Prednisolone | 5 mg | 12-36 hrs | Intermediate |
| Methylprednisolone | 4 mg | 12-36 hrs | Intermediate |
| Hydrocortisone | 20 mg | 8-12 hrs | Short |
| Cortisone | 25 mg | 8-12 hrs | Short |
| Dexamethasone | 0.75 mg | 36-54 hrs | Long |
| Betamethasone | 0.6 mg | 36-54 hrs | Long |
| Triamcinolone | 4 mg | 12-36 hrs | Intermediate |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is corticosteroid equivalence?
Corticosteroid equivalence refers to doses of different steroids that produce similar anti-inflammatory (glucocorticoid) effects. Hydrocortisone 20mg = Prednisone 5mg = Methylprednisolone 4mg = Dexamethasone 0.75mg. Equivalence is approximate and varies by indication.
How is steroid conversion calculated?
Convert to prednisone equivalent first: (Current Dose ÷ From Equivalent) × 5. Then convert to target: (Prednisone Equiv ÷ 5) × Target Equivalent. Example: 40mg prednisone to methylprednisolone = (40÷5)×4 = 32mg.
Why do mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid potencies differ?
Glucocorticoid effect (anti-inflammatory) and mineralocorticoid effect (salt/water retention) are separate. Dexamethasone has high glucocorticoid but zero mineralocorticoid activity. Hydrocortisone has both. This affects steroid selection for heart failure or hypertension.
When should I taper corticosteroids?
Taper when on ≥20mg prednisone equivalent for ≥3 weeks. Reduce by 10-20% every 3-5 days for short courses. Slower tapers (5-10% every 2-4 weeks) for long-term use. Never stop abruptly—risk of adrenal crisis.
Can I substitute prednisone for prednisolone?
Yes—they are equipotent (both 5mg equivalent). Prednisone is a prodrug converted to prednisolone in the liver. Use prednisolone in severe liver disease when conversion may be impaired.
What is physiologic replacement dosing?
For adrenal insufficiency: hydrocortisone 15-25mg/day or prednisone 5-7.5mg/day. Give in divided doses mimicking diurnal rhythm (2/3 AM, 1/3 PM). May need fludrocortisone for mineralocorticoid replacement.
Key Statistics
Official Data Sources
⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. Steroid equivalence is approximate; clinical response varies. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for clinical decisions.
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