In veterinary medicine, prednisolone is often recommended as an alternative to prednisone where the former provides superior bioavailability. While some products are labeled for use in some animals with certain conditions, prednisolone’s use in cats, dogs, horses, small mammals, birds, and reptiles to treat inflammation, immune-mediated disease, Addison’s disease, and neoplasia is “off label” or “extra label”. Prednisolone is most commonly prescribed to help relieve inflammation and joint pain, and to decrease the swelling, redness, and itching often associated with allergic reactions. 

Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) in the Horse 

Prednisolone is indicated for the treatment of Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO) in the horse. This condition was previously called heaves, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. RAO is a disease of the bronchioles in the lungs and is caused by an allergy to small dust particles and spores that are inhaled by the horse.1 The allergic reaction results in the production of fluid and thickening of the walls of the small airways of the lungs, causing increasing obstruction. 

RAO is reversible in its early stages, but the damage may become permanent if management changes are not made, since affected horses must make increasing efforts to breathe. Although RAO cannot be cured as such, its progress can be halted.

Two different forms of RAO are recognized in the horse: the barn-associated type seen in stalled horses that are fed hay, and summer pasture-associated obstructive pulmonary disease which is more commonly seen in horses living on pasture in the Southeastern United States.3,4 

Where to buy Prednisolone 

Prednisolone is available in the U.S. through pharmaceutical manufacturers and through veterinary custom compounding companies. 

This product carries numerous potential drug interactions. Please consult your veterinarian prior to beginning any treatment regimen.

FOR RX ONLY: A valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian is required for dispensing this medication.

2vcahospitals.com.

3Merck Veterinary Manual.

4aaep.org.