Compare Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
- AlbuterolPrednisone
- AlbuterolPrednisone
Summary of Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Summary for SABAPrescription onlyAlbuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). It's a rescue inhaler that treats or prevents sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in adults and children at least 4 years old with certain breathing problems, such as asthma. Albuterol is inhaled through the mouth using either an HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) or a dry powder inhaler. The typical dose is 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours as needed when you suddenly have trouble breathing. Albuterol side effects generally include sore throat, throat irritation, and infections.
Summary for CorticosteroidPrescription onlyPrednisone is an oral corticosteroid. It's taken by mouth by adults and children to treat health conditions related to an overactive immune system or inflammation, such as allergies and certain skin conditions. Your healthcare team will determine your dose based on what medical condition you have. Some of the common short-term side effects of prednisone include stomach irritation and mood changes. And if you take this medication for a month or longer, you're more likely to experience long-term side effects, like weight gain and weakened immune system.
Indications of Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Indications for•Treatment or prevention of wheezing or tightening of airways in people ages 4 years and older with certain types of lung problems (e.g., asthma)•Prevention of exercise-induced asthma in people ages 4 years and olderIndications forThis medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:
•Allergies or allergic reactions•Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)•Eye conditions•Lung conditions•Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)•Conditions related to blood cells•Certain cancers (e.g., leukemia•Nervous system conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis)•Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)Pros and Cons of Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Pros and Const for SABAPros•Works within minutes to help you breathe easier when you have an asthma attack or trouble breathing•Only used as needed when you're short of breath or when you're about to exercise•Can be used by children as young as 4 years oldCons•Might have to use the inhaler multiple times per day since it's a short-acting medication•Might be difficult for some people to use the inhaler properly•Should carry with you at all times so you can use it when you need toPros and Const for CorticosteroidPros•Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system•Available as a liquid, which is a good option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills•Available as a lower-cost generic•Dose can be adjusted based on your response to the medicationCons•Can cause side effects like upset stomach, mood changes, and sleep problems•Need to taper your dose before stopping (if you took it for more than a couple of weeks)•Might raise your risk for infections, bone weakening, and skin problems if used long term•Can slow growth in children if they take it for a long period of timeCommon Side Effects of Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Common Side Effects forNote: Side effects you might have can depend on your age, dose, the type of albuterol inhaler you're using, and how often you're using the inhaler.
Common Side Effects for•Swelling (e.g., puffiness in the face, hands, or feet)•Stomach bloating•Muscle weakness•Headache•Insomnia (trouble sleeping)•Changes in your mood•Larger appetite (possibly leading to weight gain)•Higher blood sugarWarnings of Albuterol vs. Prednisone
Common Side Effects for•Breathing problems•Heart problems•Low potassium in the blood•Allergic reactionsCommon Side Effects for•Greater risk of infections•Mood and behavior changes•Reduced adrenal gland function•Changes in heart and kidney function•Stomach problems•Bone problems with long-term use•Eye problems with long-term usePrices with our coupons for Albuterol vs. Prednisone
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