What is oral corticosteroids?

Oral Corticosteroids
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Oral corticosteroids for children: Overview

Oral corticosteroids are medicines that help calm down the body's response to inflammation. Oral means that they are taken by mouth. This is most often in the form of a pill. They also come in liquid form.

This medicine is used for treating many conditions, such as asthma, allergic reactions, and juvenile arthritis. Your child's doctor may prescribe it for a severe skin problem. A rash from poison ivy is one example. Your child may have side effects from taking this medicine. These include nausea, headache, dizziness, and anxiety.

Follow your doctor's instructions on how to give this medicine to your child. If your child takes it for 2 weeks or more, take special care when it's time for your child to stop. You might need to slowly reduce (taper) the amount your child takes. Slowly cutting down over time helps your child's body adjust to the change.

Oral corticosteroids for children: When to call

Call 911 if:

  • Your child vomits blood or what looks like coffee grounds.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You think your child may be having problems with the medicine.
  • Your child's symptoms are getting worse.
  • Your child is dizzy or lightheaded.
  • Your child has new or worse nausea or vomiting.
  • Your child's stools are black.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child does not get better as expected.

How can you help your child safely take oral corticosteroids?

  • Be safe with medicines. Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
  • If your child vomits up the liquid medicine within 30 minutes after taking it, you can give another dose.
  • Give your child this medicine after a meal, such as breakfast or lunch. It may cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions for how to stop giving this medicine to your child.

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