American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

Which steroid is classified as the second most potent?

1. Dexamethasone

2. Hydrocortisone

3. Methylprednisone

4. Prednisone

The correct answer is: Methylprednisone

Methylprednisolone is considered the second most potent corticosteroid when compared to other common corticosteroids. It is a synthetic glucocorticoid that is often used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. The potency of corticosteroids is typically gauged based on their anti-inflammatory effects relative to hydrocortisone, which is used as a baseline with a potency of 1. Dexamethasone is the most potent corticosteroid and is often preferred in conditions where high dosages of anti-inflammatory treatment are necessary. Hydrocortisone, while effective, is relatively low in potency compared to synthetic forms. Prednisone is also less potent than methylprednisolone. Thus, in this context, methylprednisolone stands out as the second most potent corticosteroid typically utilized in clinical settings.