Corticosteroid medications treat swelling and inflammation of the air passages in those who have asthma. Corticosteroids may be given by inhaler, orally or by injection.

Oral corticosteroids:

• Decadron
• Medrol
• Solu-Medrol
• Pediapred
• Prednisone

Inhaled corticosteroids:

• Fluticasone (Flovent)
• Triamcinolone (Azmacort)
• Beclomethasone (Beclovent, Vanceril)
• Budesonide (Pulmicort, Rhinocort)

Long-term use of oral corticosteroids can result in side effects. However, side effects are uncommon in those who use a corticosteroid inhaler, and in those who only receive short courses of therapy with corticosteroids.

Side effects include:

• Thinning of the skin
• Osteoporosis
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar
• Cataracts