Cortan 20 is a high-potency systemic corticosteroid containing Prednisolone used for the effective treatment of wide-ranging inflammatory, allergic, and autoimmune disorders. It is a synthetic glucocorticoid that works by decreasing inflammation through the suppression of migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and reversal of increased capillary permeability, while selectively dampening overactive immune system responses. Produced by Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd., here is an updated guide for 2026.
What is Cortan 20 Used For?
Cortan 20 contains 20 mg of Prednisolone and is primarily prescribed for:
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Severe Allergic Conditions: Rapid control of acute bronchial asthma, severe drug hypersensitivity reactions, serum sickness, and angioneurotic edema.
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Inflammatory and Rheumatic Disorders: Management of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), juvenile arthritis, and acute gouty flare-ups.
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Respiratory Diseases: Suppression of clinical inflammation in cases of allergic pneumonitis, advanced pulmonary fibrosis, and symptomatic sarcoidosis.
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Nephrotic Syndrome: Induction of diuresis or remission of massive proteinuria in idiopathic protein-losing kidney conditions.
Clinical research highlights prednisolone as a versatile hormonal regulator capable of shifting cellular signaling to blunt aggressive tissue inflammation. For a deeper look at its clinical profile, see this StatPearls Clinical Review on Prednisolone.
Dosage
The standard dosage varies widely depending on the type and severity of the condition. Initial adult doses range from 5 mg to 60 mg daily in divided amounts, adjusted strictly by a physician to individual responses.
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Administration: The tablet should be swallowed whole with water. Do not take it on an empty stomach.
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Timing: It must be taken with or immediately after food to avoid severe stomach upset.
Common Side Effects
Cortan 20 is highly effective but can impact metabolic balances due to its systemic hormonal mechanism. Short-term or initial side effects include:
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Increased appetite and subsequent weight gain
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Fluid retention and localized swelling (edema)
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Mild mood alterations, restlessness, or insomnia
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Gastrointestinal discomfort or indigestion
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Temporary glucose intolerance (elevation of blood sugar levels)
Safety Insight: While standard short courses are secure, long-term use can thin bones and weaken skin structure. For more peer-reviewed information on its safety and cellular profile during extended therapy, refer to this NCBI PMC Research Study on Glucocorticoid Safety.
Important Warnings & Precautions
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Do Not Stop Abruptly: Prolonged use suppresses adrenal gland function. Suddenly halting Cortan 20 can precipitate a dangerous adrenal crisis; it must be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
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Infection Risk: Prednisolone suppresses your immune defense system, making you more vulnerable to catching bacterial or viral infections and masking initial illness symptoms.
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Vaccination Caution: Avoid receiving live or live-attenuated viral vaccines while on high therapeutic doses of this medication.
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Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare professional before use. It should be taken during pregnancy only if essentially required, and small amounts pass into breast milk requiring calculated spacing.
Price in Bangladesh (January 2026 Approximate)
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Price per Tablet: Approximately ৳6.27.
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Price per Strip (10 Tablets): Typically ৳62.70.
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Manufacturer: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cortan 20
Q: What is Cortan 20 used for?
Cortan 20 is primarily indicated for managing acute inflammatory processes, severe allergy conditions, asthma flare-ups, and auto-immune disorders. As detailed in peer-reviewed medical databases, it targets intracellular receptors to alter gene translation responsible for cytokine production.
Q: Is Cortan 20 an antibiotic?
No. It is a powerful steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and immunosuppressant. It provides no antibacterial protection and can actually mask standard underlying infections.
Q: Cortan 20 dose per day
The daily dose of Cortan 20 is highly individualized, ranging between 5 mg and 60 mg daily, often taken in split doses. Official medical guidelines strictly advise following your doctor’s tapering protocol and consistently consuming it with meals.
Q: Cortan 20 price in Bangladesh
As of 2026, the Cortan 20 price in Bangladesh is approximately ৳৬.২৭ per tablet. The retail market price in local pharmacies typically averages ৳৬২.৭০ for a ten-tablet strip.
Q: Is Cortan good for a cough?
Cortan 20 will only reduce a cough if the cause is linked to severe asthma, allergic pneumonitis, or chronic airway inflammation. Peer-reviewed studies confirm it is not a direct treatment for acute coughs resulting from standard common cold viruses.
Q: Does Cortan 20 make you sleepy?
No. Cortan 20 does not act as a central nervous system sedative. In fact, due to its metabolic stimulating actions, it can cause heightened alertness, mild restlessness, or temporary sleep issues if taken late at night.
Q: Cortan 20 side effects
Possible Cortan 20 side effects include stomach irritation, increased hunger, mild fluid collection, or blood pressure changes. According to FDA Drug Safety Reviews, these manifestations can be successfully managed when the drug is properly tapered off.
Q: How quickly does Cortan 20 start working?
It begins converting into active form rapidly within the liver, with structural anti-inflammatory and cellular changes taking effect within a few hours of oral administration.
Q: Are there any alternatives to Cortan 20 in Bangladesh?
Yes. Common alternatives include Precodil 20 (Opsonin), Deltasone 20 (Renata), Inflagic 20 (Square), Pred 20 (SK+F), and Predimax 20 (ACME).
Q: What if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember with some food. If it is already close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed interval and keep to your standard track. Never take a double dose to compensate.
Q: How to reduce household allergy triggers?
Minimize dust and allergens by using an easy-to-clean sofa or a high-quality bed.
Disclaimer: This is educational information only (updated January 2026). Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before starting or stopping any medication.
