Brand and Generic name GENERIC NAME: prednisone BRAND NAME: Deltasone, Orasone, Prednicen-M, Liquid Pred

Classification hormones and synthetic substitutes ; adrenal corticosteroid;glu cocorticoid

Action Prednisone is biologically inert and converted to the predominantly prednisolone in the liver. It decreases inflammation by suppression of migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability; suppresses the immune system by reducing activity and vol of the lymphatic system; suppresses adrenal function at high doses. Indications and dosage are same as those for prednisolone.

Side effects sleep problems (insomnia), mood changes; acne, dry skin, thinning skin, bruising or discoloration; slow wound healing; increased sweating; headache, dizziness, spinning sensation; nausea, stomach pain, bloating; or Changes in the shape or location of body fat (especially in your arms, legs, face, neck, breasts, and waist).

Contraindications Hypersensitivity, serious infections (except tuberculous meningitis), varicella, systemic fungal infections.

Nursing Responsibility Administer once-a-day doses before 9 AM to mimic normal peak corticosteroid Blood levels. Increase dosage when patient is subject to stress. Taper doses when discontinuing high-dose or long-term therapy. Do not give live virus vaccines with immunosuppre ssive doses of corticosteroids Report unusual weight gain, swelling of the extremities, muscle weakness, blacker tarry stools, fever, prolonged sore throat, colds or other infections, worsening of the disorder for which the drug is being taken.

Brand and Generic name GENERIC NAME: Azathioprine BRAND NAME: Azasan and Imuran.

Classification Immunosuppressa nt

Action Azathioprine is an immunosuppressa nt, which inhibits DNA, RNA and protein synthesis and antagonises purine synthesis. It also inhibits mitosis and interferes with cellular metabolism of susceptible organisms. Azathioprine inj should be discontinued as soon as oral therapy can be introduced

Side effects Blood - Decreased white blood cells and platelets. Gastrointestinal Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Miscellaneous Rash, hair loss, fever, joint pain, diarrhea, negative nitrogen balance and reversible interstitial lung inflammation.

Contraindications Hypersensitivity; previous treatment with alkylating agents; pregnancy, lactation.

Nursing Responsibility -Give drug IV if oral administration is not possible; switch to oral route as soon as possible. -Administer in divided daily doses or with food if GI upset occurs. -BLACK BOX WARNING: Mon itor blood counts regularly; severe hematologic effects may require the discontinuation of therapy; increases risk of neoplasia. -Take drug in divided doses with food if GI upset occurs. -Avoid infections; avoid crowds or people who have infections. Notify your physician at once if you are injured. -Notify your health care provider if you think you are pregnant or wish to become pregnant, or if you are a man whose sexual

partner wishes to become pregnant. -You may experience these side effects: Nausea, vomiting (take drug in divided doses or with food), diarrhea, rash. -Report unusual bleeding or bruising, fever, sore throat, mouth sores, signs of infection, abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, darkened urine or pale stools, severe nausea and vomiting.