Oral Corticosteroid Overuse in Asthma
Welcome to our Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations podcast series about oral corticosteroid (OCS) overuse. This is the first of two episodes about these medications. In this episode, we focus on oral corticosteroids and asthma. We learn about how taking corticosteroids by pill, injection, or IV drip can hurt you in the long run and what you can do to stop using them too much.
This episode about oral corticosteroid overuse in asthma is produced in partnership with The Itch Podcast. Our co-hosts, Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney talk with Dipa Sheth, MD, about why using oral corticosteroids too often to treat asthma is not safe. Learn about the side effects, better ways to control your asthma, and safer medicines you can use.
You can listen to the podcast on ItchPodcast.com. The podcast is also available as a download on major platforms for listening anytime, anywhere:
We thank Sanofi Regeneron for sponsoring this episode. All opinions expressed are our own and do not reflect views of Sanofi Regeneron. Sponsorship does not influence content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.
Why is oral corticosteroid overuse for asthma harmful?
In this podcast episode, we explain that corticosteroids given in the emergency department or urgent care are sometimes called the “asthma shot.” These corticosteroids can help in an emergency but can also be harmful if used too much.
Dr. Sheth explains how to tell if you are using too many corticosteroids and why they should only be used for a short time. She also discusses safer options, like asthma inhalers and new medicines with fewer side effects.
Key takeaways about OCS overuse
Oral corticosteroids should only be used in emergencies. If you are taking more than one round of OCS for your asthma a year, you should see an asthma specialist. Work together to develop a management and treatment plan to control your asthma symptoms.
- Emergency use only: Why oral corticosteroids should only be used for emergencies and how OCS treats asthma.
- Too much use is a warning: If you need more than one round of OCS per year, your asthma may not be well controlled.
- Side effects matter: Repeat use of OCS can hurt your body. It can weaken your bones, cause weight gain, and affect your heart and eyes.
- Safer options exist: Asthma inhalers and biologic medicines can help control asthma with fewer problems.
- See a specialist: Working with a doctor or an asthma specialist can help you develop the best plan for your asthma.
Timestamps on ‘Oral Corticosteroid Use in Asthma’:
01:25 – Dr. Dipa Sheth Intro
01:58 – What are oral corticosteroids?
03:30 – How fast do corticosteroids work?
04:40 – How do corticosteroids help with asthma?
06:16 – Medications you may get at the ER for asthma other than oral corticosteroids
08:04 – Best ways to treat asthma inflammation
09:55 – Why ER visits aren’t enough to manage asthma
11:26 – Why using too many oral corticosteroids is harmful
14:10 – How to tell if you use too many corticosteroids
14:45 – How to use fewer oral corticosteroids
17:25 – Who is affected by too much OCS use?
20:59 – Signs of uncontrolled asthma
23:20 – Systemic vs. inhaled corticosteroids
