About Prednisolone

• Prednisolone belongs to a class of drugs called steroids, which act to reduce inflammation in the body. Prednisolone has been used to treat asthma in children and adults since the 1950s. Prednisolone (like most other steroids) is available only by prescription.
  
  

Other Uses of Prednisolone

• Prednisolone is also used to treat conditions other than asthma, including allergies, skin conditions, psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, arthritis and lupus.
  
  

About Children and Asthma

• According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, asthma is the most-often cited reason why kids miss school. Even those children who take their prescribed medications on a regular basis may have occasional asthma problems that require emergency treatment. If your child is taking prednisolone or any other prescription medication for asthma but the symptoms are worsening, call your doctor or if your child is having serious difficulty breathing, visit an emergency room immediately.
  
  

Who Should Not Take Prednisolone

• People who are allergic to prednisolone should not take the medication and should talk with a doctor about finding an alternative to treat their asthma symptoms.
  
  People who have fungal infections should not take prednisolone, either. If you have been prescribed prednisolone for asthma or another condition and develop a fungal infection, ask your doctor whether you should stop taking prednisolone until the fungal infection is gone, and if there is an alternative medication you can use instead of prednisolone.
  
  

What About Side Effects?

• As with any prescription medication, you'll want to discuss potential side effects with your doctor before taking prednisolone. Among the more widely-reported side effects of prednisolone are stomach irritation, irregular menstrual periods in women, and softening of bones. In most cases, a doctor has considered the possibility of side effects before prescribing a medication, and has determined taking prednisolone is more important than the possible risks associated with it. Remember, however, that the ultimate decision about taking the medication is up to you.