Cortan 5 is a prescription medication containing Prednisolone, a synthetic corticosteroid. It is primarily used to reduce inflammation and suppress an overactive immune system. Produced by The ACME Laboratories Ltd., Cortan 5 is a versatile treatment for a wide range of conditions, from severe allergies and asthma to autoimmune disorders and certain types of cancer.
What is Cortan 5 Used For?
Cortan 5 mg is formulated for adults and children to manage various inflammatory and immune-related conditions. Its primary applications include:
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Allergic Conditions: Treatment of severe seasonal or perennial allergies, drug hypersensitivity, and contact dermatitis.
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Asthma & Respiratory Care: Management of bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups.
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Autoimmune Disorders: Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and psoriasis.
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Eye & Skin Inflammation: Managing severe inflammatory conditions of the eye and certain skin disorders like pemphigus.
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Endocrine Disorders: Used as replacement therapy in cases of adrenal insufficiency.
Clinical Insight: Prednisolone works by entering cells and preventing the release of substances that cause inflammation. It also modifies the body’s immune response to various stimuli. For a technical deep dive, visit the National Library of Medicine (NIH) – Prednisolone Profile.
Dosage
The dosage of Cortan 5 varies significantly based on the condition being treated and the patient’s weight. The initial dose for adults can range from 5 mg to 60 mg daily.
It is highly recommended to take Cortan 5 in the morning (usually before 9:00 AM) to mimic the body’s natural rhythm of steroid production and reduce the risk of insomnia. To prevent stomach irritation, it should always be taken with or immediately after food. Never stop taking this medication abruptly if you have been on it for more than a few days; it must be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Common Side Effects
While highly effective, Cortan 5 can cause several side effects, especially with long-term or high-dose use:
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Increased appetite and weight gain
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Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) or mood changes
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Increased sweating and thinning of the skin
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Upset stomach or indigestion
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Slightly increased blood sugar levels
Important Warnings & Precautions
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Do Not Stop Abruptly: Sudden withdrawal can lead to “Adrenal Crisis,” which is a medical emergency characterized by severe weakness and low blood pressure.
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Vaccinations: Avoid “live” vaccines (like Measles or Chickenpox) while on high doses, as the medication lowers your immune response.
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Diabetes: If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar closely, as Cortan can significantly increase glucose levels.
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Eye Health: Long-term use can increase the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.
Cortan 5 vs. Deltacortril 5: Key Differences and Usage
Patients often compare different brands of Prednisolone available in the market.
| Feature | Cortan 5 (ACME) | Deltacortril 5 (Pfizer/Local) |
| Active Ingredient | Prednisolone 5 mg | Prednisolone 5 mg |
| Drug Class | Corticosteroid | Corticosteroid |
| Primary Use | Inflammation & Allergies | Inflammation & Allergies |
| Formulation | Standard Tablet | Standard Tablet |
| Unit Price | ৳ 1.50 | ৳ 1.50 – ৳ 2.50 |
Cortan 5 Price (March 2026 Update)
Pricing for the Cortan range by The ACME Laboratories Ltd. remains very affordable in the 2026 market.
| Product Name | Strength | Unit Price (BDT) | Strip Price (10 Tablets) |
| Cortan 5 | 5 mg | ৳ 1.50 | ৳ 15.00 |
| Cortan 10 | 10 mg | ৳ 2.50 | ৳ 25.00 |
| Cortan 20 | 20 mg | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Cortan 5 Alternative Brands & Prices
If Cortan 5 is unavailable, these high-quality alternatives with the same generic are widely available in Bangladesh.
| Brand Name | Company Name | Price per Unit (BDT) |
| Nupred 5 | Incepta Pharmaceuticals | ৳ 1.50 |
| Pred 5 | Square Pharmaceuticals | ৳ 1.50 |
| Prelone 5 | Beximco Pharmaceuticals | ৳ 1.50 |
| Xalcort 5 | Renata Limited | ৳ 1.50 |
| Prednicort 5 | Opsonin Pharma | ৳ 1.45 |
| Cortal 5 | Eskayef (SK+F) | ৳ 1.50 |
| Prednitab 5 | Aristopharma Ltd. | ৳ 1.50 |
| A-Cort 5 | Popular Pharmaceuticals | ৳ 1.50 |
| G-Prednisolone | Gonoshasthaya Pharma | ৳ 0.80 |
| Deltacortril | Pfizer/Various | ৳ 2.00+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cortan 5
1. What is the Cortan 5 mg price in Bangladesh?
As of March 2026, the retail price is ৳ 1.50 per tablet. A standard strip of 10 tablets costs ৳ 15.00.
2. What are the common side effects of Cortan 5?
Common side effects include increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, and mood swings. Long-term use can lead to more serious issues like bone thinning or increased blood pressure.
3. What is Cortan 5 used for?
It is a steroid used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including asthma, severe allergies, arthritis, skin conditions, and various autoimmune diseases.
4. Is Cortan 5 safe during pregnancy?
With Caution. Cortan 5 is generally avoided during the first trimester unless the benefit to the mother outweighs the risk to the fetus. It can sometimes lead to lower birth weight or cleft palate if used in high doses early on. Always consult your obstetrician.
5. Can I take Cortan 5 with an empty stomach?
No. It is highly recommended to take Cortan 5 with food or milk to prevent stomach ulcers or general gastric irritation.
6. Does Cortan 5 make you sleepy?
No, it usually has the opposite effect. Because it is a steroid, it can act as a stimulant, often causing insomnia or “steroid jitters” if taken late in the day.
7. What is the recommended Cortan 5 dose?
The dose varies by condition. For acute allergies, it might be 15–20 mg daily for a few days. For chronic conditions, it could be as low as 5 mg. Always follow your doctor’s exact schedule.
8. Is Cortan 5 considered high risk?
Yes, it is high risk for individuals with Active Infections (like TB or fungal infections), Diabetes, Osteoporosis, and Peptic Ulcers.
9. Are there any alternatives to Cortan 5 in Bangladesh?
Yes, widely available alternatives include Nupred 5 (Incepta), Pred 5 (Square), and Prelone 5 (Beximco), with most priced at the regulated rate of ৳ 1.50.
Disclaimer: This is educational information only (updated March 2026). Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before starting/stopping any medication.
