This medication is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood/hormone/immune system disorders, allergic reactions, certain skin and eye conditions, breathing problems, certain bowel disorders and certain cancers.

The off label uses of this medication - it is also used as a test for an adrenal gland disorder (Cushing's syndrome).

Not recommended in patients with the following conditions:
If allergic to it or to other corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone).
If there are active fungal infections.
If there are other infections (e.g. tuberculosis, herpes), kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood conditions (e.g. psychosis, anxiety, depression), low blood minerals (e.g. low potassium/calcium).
If there is thyroid disease, stomach/intestinal problems (e.g. ulcer, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, unexplained diarrhea), high blood pressure, heart problems (e.g. congestive heart failure, recent heart attack), diabetes, eye diseases (e.g. cataracts, glaucoma, herpes infection of the eye).