Quick Question

[Wolffers]

I live in Canada and am wondering if it is standard practice in the UK to prescribe prednisone on a permanent basis for someone in extremely severe COPD as a help? It is here in different provinces. Thanks in advance😊

[Karenanne61]

The issuing of 'Rescue packs' , containing steroids and antibiotics, seems to be a bit of a lottery here, from what I've read on this forum. Some medics understand the need for them as sod's law dictates we'll need them over a holiday or long weekend! Others seem reluctant and insist the sufferer see a gp - which can often be very difficult.

[6538]

I cant speak for all parts of the UK but my consultant prescribed prednisolone 5mg daily 15 years ago and I am still taking it, personally I wish I didn't have to due to the side effects , but without it I wouldn't be able to do half the things I can do now.

[Chip_y2kuk]

It happens... i know of people on long term prednisolone... but its not the norm, most will be on inhaled steroids of various doses (inhalers, I know it's more common for nebulisers in america; I don't know about Canada)

Chip

[Millyboo710]

I’ve been on 7mg of prednisone for nearly three years. I have an autoimmune lung disease, not COPD, as well as pulmonary hypertension and sleep apnoea, and take a whole range of drugs daily and will have to for the rest of my life.

[soulboy118 in reply to Millyboo710]

Thanks milly

[leo60]

I think a low dose of Pred. was quite often prescribed for COPD, but due to the side effects it tends not to be given on a long term basis. xx

[soulboy118]

It's,not uncommon but they usually give the bare minimum steroids and try and reduce then , but if they help and and mitagated. With other medicines,why not