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Asthma Medicine Oral Corticosteroids

Respiratory



 



The name of your oral corticosteroid is ___________________________.

 

What are oral corticosteroids?

 

They are medicines that are used for asthma flare-ups or attacks.  Most often they are taken for a short time (5-10 days).  They are part of the “Red Zone” on the written Asthma Action Plan.

 

How do they help?

 

They decrease airway swelling.  This opens the airways and makes it easier to breathe.

 

What are some examples?

  • Prednisone tablets
  • Prednisolone
    • Orapred®: 15mg/5ml
    • Pediapred®: 5mg/5ml
    • Prelone®: comes in both strengths as listed above
    • Orapred®ODT (dissolvable tablets): 10mg, 15mg, & 30mg
  • Methylprednisolone (Medrol®)

Are there side effects I should know about?

 

Side effects may include any of the symptoms listed below.  Side effects improve when you are not taking the medication.

  • Increased appetite
  • Changes in mood
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Stomach ache

More side effects may occur when taking this medication for a long time.  These additional side effects are listed below.

  • Weight gain
  • Weakening of the bones (osteoporosis)
  • Decrease in linear growth (height) for a child
  • Higher risk for infection
  • Eye changes (cataracts)
  • Increase in blood pressure
  • Increase in blood sugar (diabetes)
  • Bruising and skin changes

Please talk with your health care team if taking oral corticosteroids for a long time.

 

Are there any special instructions for taking this medicine?

  • It should always be taken with food.
  • If taking it twice a day, it is best to take it with breakfast and again at lunch or after school with a snack. 
  • If taking once a day, it should be taken in the morning.
  • If you are taking an oral corticosteroid for longer than 10 days, do not stop it without first talking with your health care team.  They may suggest a "taper" schedule.

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is 6731.

 



The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 04/13/2011

Copyright © 04/13/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6661

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