#105 - Understanding Oral Corticosteroid Overuse in Asthma

Ever wonder if the “asthma shot” from the ER, or those go-to steroid pills for your asthma flares, might be doing more harm than good?

Dr. Dipa Sheth joins us to discuss the common pitfalls of relying too heavily on oral corticosteroids (OCS), also known as oral steroids. We unpack why these systemic medications should generally be reserved for short-term use. She also shares how improving asthma control can help you avoid frequent steroid use in the first place.

Although oral steroids can effectively treat asthma flare-ups in emergency settings, overuse poses significant risks, from adrenal insufficiency to osteoporosis. We dig into ways patients can proactively manage their asthma, reduce ER visits, and talk to healthcare providers about preventive treatments (like inhalers or biologics for asthma) that keep inflammation in check without the side effects of frequent steroid use.

Note: Although we discuss oral corticoid steroids, they can also be given as injections or via IV drip for asthma. We would also like to refer to them as systemic steroids as they impact the entire body, unlike inhaled steroids, which target the airways and lungs. 

What we cover in our episode about oral steroid overuse

• Understanding Oral Corticosteroids (OCS): Learn what these steroids (often called the “asthma shot” in the ER) are and how they can help with severe flare-ups.
• Why Overusing Steroids Can Be Risky: Discover the potential long-term side effects of relying on systemic steroids (pills, injections, or IV), from adrenal insufficiency and osteoporosis to more frequent infections.
• Short-Term Fix vs. Lasting Relief for Asthma Care: Learn how urgent care or ER visits may mask an under-managed condition and why seeing a specialist can improve asthma control.
• Safer Alternatives to OCS: Explore inhaled corticosteroids, biologics, and other preventive treatments that target asthma at its source, reducing the need for frequent steroids.
• Taking Control and Reducing ER Visits: Get practical strategies for working with your healthcare provider to minimize steroid use, prevent flare-ups, and break free from the cycle of repeated steroid courses.

This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi and Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, always consult with your healthcare provider.