From the Guidelines
Prednisolone is generally preferred over prednisone for IVF transfer due to its active form and reliable absorption, with a typical dosage of 5-10 mg once daily. The choice between prednisone and prednisolone in IVF transfer is guided by their pharmacological equivalence and the preference for prednisolone in certain clinical contexts [ 1 ]. Key points to consider in the use of these corticosteroids for IVF transfer include:
- The dosage and duration of treatment, which can vary based on individual patient needs and protocols
- The potential benefits of corticosteroid use in IVF, including improved implantation rates in patients with specific conditions such as recurrent implantation failure or autoimmune disorders
- The side effect profile, which is generally mild at low doses but can include insomnia, increased appetite, and mood changes
- The importance of proper administration, such as taking the medication in the morning with food to minimize side effects, and the need for gradual tapering if the medication is stopped after more than two weeks of use. While the provided evidence [ 1 ] discusses the use of prednisone and prednisolone in a different clinical context, the principle of their equivalence and the preference for prednisolone in certain situations can be applied to the context of IVF transfer, prioritizing the patient's morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.
From the Research
Comparison of Prednisone and Prednisolone in IVF Transfer
- There is limited direct comparison between prednisone and prednisolone in the context of IVF transfer in the provided studies.
- However, the studies suggest that corticosteroids, including prednisone and prednisolone, may have immunosuppressive effects that could potentially improve pregnancy outcomes in certain groups of patients, such as those with recurrent pregnancy loss or antinuclear antibodies 2, 3, 4.
- One study found that prednisone improved pregnancy outcome in repeated implantation failure by enhancing regulatory T cells bias 4.
- Another study found that prednisolone given to women with antinuclear antibodies improved implantation and clinical pregnancy rates, but not live birth rates 3.
- However, a study also found that exposure to corticosteroids in the first trimester was associated with an increased risk of urogenital congenital anomalies, such as cryptorchidism, hypospadias, and talipes 5.
Key Findings
- Prednisone and prednisolone may have immunosuppressive effects that could improve pregnancy outcomes in certain groups of patients.
- The use of corticosteroids in IVF transfer may be associated with an increased risk of congenital anomalies.
- More research is needed to fully understand the effects of prednisone and prednisolone in IVF transfer and to determine the optimal treatment protocols.