Discover the New OCS Toolkit: Your Guide to Safer Oral Corticosteroid Use
Published: June 25, 2025
Oral corticosteroids (OCS) are commonly used to treat severe flare-ups of a wide range of respiratory, allergic, skin and autoimmune conditions. However, their use comes with important considerations regarding safety, side effects and long-term management.
The new Oral Corticosteroids Toolkit (OCS Toolkit) supports patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals. It is a resource of information on OCS treatment for asthma, allergies, eczema and related conditions.
What Are Oral Corticosteroids?
Oral Corticosteroids (OCS) are powerful anti-inflammatory medications. Prednisone, a pill, is the most commonly prescribed OCS.
OCS are used to treat severe asthma attacks, COPD, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps and sinusitis. They are sometimes used to treat severe flare-ups of skin conditions such as severe eczema, chronic hives or psoriasis. OCS also treat autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and lupus.
When used short-term, or a “burst” of 3-5 days, OCS offer effective relief of symptoms. However, both short-term and long-term use can lead to serious side effects.
The OCS Toolkit breaks down how OCS work, when they should be prescribed, and why they should be used cautiously. Find answers to common questions about OCS, such as:
- “What conditions do OCS treat?”
- “What is considered OCS overuse?
- “Are there alternatives to OCS for my condition?”
Understanding OCS Side Effects
OCS side effects can affect people who use the medications on a short-term “burst” and on a long-term basis. These side effects can impact daily life and lead to other medical conditions.
Learn strategies to reduce the risk and impact of side effects:
- Monitor side effects, such as testing for bone density and blood sugar.
- Taper OCS doses under medical supervision.
- Consider lifestyle changes that support your disease management.
- Consider other types of therapies, including non-steroid options.
OCS in Asthma Management
If you have asthma and need two or more courses of OCS in a 12-month period, speak with your doctor about other treatment options. Two or more courses of OCS in a 12-month period is an indication of poor asthma control.
Patients can ask:
- “Can we adjust my controller inhaler or explore advanced treatments like biologics?”
- “Are there environmental triggers we haven’t addressed?”
OCS are not considered a long-term solution for asthma. The goal is to prevent flares, not just treat them.
Health Disparities in OCS Side Effects
Communities that are underserved often face a higher risk of OCS-related complications due to health disparities and systemic inequality. Black and Hispanic/Latino patients with severe asthma symptoms tend to go to the hospital or emergency department, where they are prescribed OCS. As a result, they are more likely to rely on OCS for treatment. This increases their risk of serious medical conditions, including diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular issues.
Healthcare professionals can work with patients and caregivers to reduce reliance on OCS treatment. This can improve health outcomes for all patients.
Resources for Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in minimizing OCS overuse. If a patient needs OCS often or regularly, it might be time to reevaluate their management and treatment plan. Or they may need extra support to stick with their treatment plan.
Think beyond the burst! Stay up to date on the latest research and guidelines for OCS treatment. When you look for long-term solutions, you can help patients better manage their conditions, while keeping OCS use to a minimum.
Reviewed by:
William E. Berger, MD, FACAAI, is a board-certified allergist and immunologist who serves as a media spokesperson and Chair of the Medical Advisory Council for Allergy & Asthma Network. He is a Distinguished Fellow and Past President (2002-03) of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI).
