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Albuterol vs. Prednisone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Albuterol and prednisone are both medications used to treat lung conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Albuterol, available under brand names like ProAir HFA and Ventolin HFA, is a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) used as a rescue inhaler for sudden wheezing or shortness of breath in conditions like asthma. Prednisone, available as Rayos and Prednisone Intensol, is a corticosteroid taken orally to treat inflammation and immune-related conditions, including lung issues. Albuterol is inhaled and works quickly to relax lung muscles, while prednisone is taken by mouth and works by calming the immune system. Albuterol is typically used as needed, with a common dose of 1 to 2 inhalations every 4 to 6 hours, whereas prednisone dosing varies widely based on the condition being treated. Albuterol is available in inhaler forms, while prednisone comes in tablets and liquid forms. Common side effects of albuterol include sore throat and throat irritation, while prednisone can cause stomach irritation and mood changes. Albuterol can interact with medications like beta blockers, while prednisone can interact with NSAIDs, increasing the risk of stomach issues.

Albuterol

 

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Summary for Albuterol

Prescription only

Albuterol 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.

Indications for Albuterol

  • 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 older

Pros and Cons for Albuterol

Pros

  • 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 old
  • Available as two types of inhalers: HFA inhaler (or metered dose inhaler) and dry powder inhaler

Cons

  • 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 to

Common Side Effects for Albuterol

Note: 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.

Warnings for Albuterol

  • Breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Low potassium in the blood
  • Allergic reactions

Summary for Prednisone

Prescription only

Prednisone 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 for Prednisone

This medication is used for many different conditions. Generally, it's used for autoimmune problems, conditions related to swelling, or cancer. Some examples include:

Pros and Cons for Prednisone

Pros

  • 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 medication

Cons

  • 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 time

Common Side Effects for Prednisone

  • 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 sugar

Warnings for Prednisone

  • 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 use

Prices with our coupons for Albuterol vs. Prednisone

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Albuterol1 hfa inhaler / 18g of 90mcg
$32.10$46.43
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Prednisone10 tablets / 20mg
$8.95-
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