PTCE Top 200 · #38

Prednisone

Deltasone

Prednisone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Deltasone. It is a corticosteroid (systemic) used to treat inflammation, allergies. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Prednisone ranks #38 and is one of the most frequently tested pain/inflammation medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic namePrednisone
Brand name(s)Deltasone
Drug classCorticosteroid (systemic)
Class groupPain/Inflammation
Common useinflammation, allergies
DEA scheduleUnscheduled
AvailabilityPrescription only (Rx)

What is Prednisone used for?

Systemic corticosteroid used for many inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions (e.g., asthma exacerbations, rheumatologic disease) depending on regimen.

What drug class is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a Corticosteroid (systemic) in the Pain/Inflammation group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Prednisone

Major interactions

Is Prednisone a controlled substance?

No. Prednisone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

How to remember Prednisone (PTCE mnemonic)

PREDnisone PREsses inflammation — systemic steroid. 'BBC' SEs: Buffalo hump, Big belly, Crazy mood + ↑glucose, ↑BP, osteoporosis. Never stop abruptly.
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PTCE exam tip

Prednisone is a systemic steroid — never stop abruptly; taper to avoid adrenal crisis, a heavily tested counseling point.

Prednisone FAQ

What is the brand name for Prednisone?

The brand name for Prednisone is Deltasone.

What is Prednisone used for?

Prednisone is used to treat inflammation, allergies. Systemic corticosteroid used for many inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune conditions (e.g., asthma exacerbations, rheumatologic disease) depending on regimen.

What drug class is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a Corticosteroid (systemic) (Pain/Inflammation group).

Is Prednisone a controlled substance?

No. Prednisone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group

Drill Prednisone the way the PTCE asks it

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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).