Prednisone offers quick asthma relief, but it’s not a long-term solution. Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding dosage and duration. Taking more than prescribed won’t improve results and can cause serious side effects.
Managing Side Effects
Prednisone can cause increased appetite, weight gain, mood changes, insomnia, and increased blood sugar. Monitor these effects closely. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and open communication with your doctor can help mitigate these issues. Discuss potential interactions with other medications you’re taking.
Long-Term Asthma Management
Prednisone treats asthma symptoms, but it doesn’t address the underlying cause. Your doctor will likely prescribe a long-term controller medication, such as an inhaled corticosteroid, to manage inflammation and prevent future attacks. Using a preventative inhaler regularly is vital for long-term asthma control.
Dosage and Timing
Your doctor will determine the appropriate prednisone dose based on your specific needs and the severity of your asthma. They’ll also explain the best time of day to take it, often with food to minimize stomach upset. Never adjust your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your physician. Regular monitoring of your lung function via peak flow measurements is recommended.
Alternatives and Adjunctive Therapies
In some cases, your doctor might suggest alternative therapies, such as allergy shots, to reduce your reliance on prednisone. Biologics are also being used for severe, uncontrolled asthma. They offer targeted treatment to reduce inflammation and potentially decrease the need for high-dose steroids.
