Glucocorticoid Equivalency Calculator
Enter your current steroid and dose to see equivalent doses in all other common systemic glucocorticoids. These conversions apply to systemic (oral/IV) anti-inflammatory dosing only — not physiologic replacement dosing.
Equivalency basis: Anti-inflammatory (glucocorticoid) potency relative to hydrocortisone 20 mg = prednisone 5 mg = methylprednisolone 4 mg = dexamethasone 0.75 mg = betamethasone 0.6 mg = triamcinolone 4 mg.
Duration of action: Hydrocortisone — short (8–12h) · Prednisone/prednisolone — intermediate (12–36h) · Methylprednisolone — intermediate · Dexamethasone/betamethasone — long (36–72h)
Duration of action: Hydrocortisone — short (8–12h) · Prednisone/prednisolone — intermediate (12–36h) · Methylprednisolone — intermediate · Dexamethasone/betamethasone — long (36–72h)
Steroid Equivalency Reference
| Steroid | Equivalent Dose | Relative Potency | Mineralocorticoid Activity | Half-life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone | 20 mg | 1× | High | 8–12 h |
| Prednisone | 5 mg | 4× | Low | 12–36 h |
| Prednisolone | 5 mg | 4× | Low | 12–36 h |
| Methylprednisolone | 4 mg | 5× | Minimal | 12–36 h |
| Triamcinolone | 4 mg | 5× | Minimal | 12–36 h |
| Dexamethasone | 0.75 mg | 25× | None | 36–72 h |
| Betamethasone | 0.6 mg | 30× | None | 36–72 h |
Physiologic replacement: In adrenal insufficiency, hydrocortisone 15–25 mg/day divided 2–3× is standard. Do NOT use dexamethasone for long-term physiologic replacement (no mineralocorticoid activity). Fludrocortisone (0.05–0.2 mg/day) is required for mineralocorticoid replacement in primary AI.
⚕️ Clinical note: These conversions reflect anti-inflammatory (pharmacologic) equivalency only. Individual patient response varies based on formulation, route, bioavailability, and clinical condition. Steroid conversions do NOT apply directly to physiologic adrenal replacement dosing. Abrupt steroid discontinuation after prolonged use risks adrenal crisis — always taper under medical supervision. This tool is for clinical reference; prescribing decisions must be individualized.