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Alternatives to Prednisone for Children With Asthma

Asthma is a serious respiratory condition affecting increasing numbers of children in the United States. Prednisone is one of the most commonly prescribed oral corticosteroid for asthma patients. However, according to the American Family Physician journal, many parents have been concerned that prednisone is not an ideal treatment for their children. Side effects of weight gain, water retention and headaches seem bad enough. Long-term side effects can even include depression and osteoporosis.

  1. Inhaled Steroids

    • The pharmaceutical community introduced inhaled steroids into the market as an alternative to prednisone, in response to the aforementioned dilemma. The Asthma Society of Canada indicates that since inhaled steroids go directly to the site of the inflammation (the lungs), smaller dosages are used, alleviating fears of side effects from overexposure. However, a study referenced in the American Family Physician journal indicates that the overall effectiveness of inhaled steroids is inferior to oral steroids.

    Avoiding Asthma Triggers

    • As the old adage goes, "The best defense is a good offense." Making an effort to avoid asthma triggers may keep a child from needing steroids. Many things in the environment can trigger asthma attacks. These include cigarette smoke, high concentrations of pollen, and any foods to which a child might be allergic. Regular cleaning can reduce dust mites and other triggers. Unfortunately, there are times when parents or their asthmatic children cannot control of the environment, so this plan is not entirely foolproof.

    Acupuncture

    • Proponents have touted acupuncture a treatment for asthma. In the procedure, very thin needles are inserted into the skin at various points on the body. Acupuncture is a safe procedure that is not generally painful. It provides a good alternative to prednisone. How effective acupuncture is for asthma treatment, however, is not well documented.

    Chiropractic Care

    • Studies sponsored by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association have indicated that using chiropractic care to treat asthma in children is highly effective. These results were consistent, even in cases where the prescription asthma medications where reduced. Showing a reduction of asthma symptoms even where medications are reduced shows that chiropractic treatment could eventually--if not initially--be used as a replacement for steroids such as prednisone.

    Other Natural Remedies

    • Other remedies for asthma are touted in the naturopathic community. Licorice extract is known as an anti-inflammatory and an anti-allergen, and there are several teas for lung and bronchial congestion which employ the use of licorice. The company, Traditional Medicinals, makes several such teas, as well as yogi teas. Additionally, essential oils known for relieving congestion and inflammation--such as rosemary, tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint--can be applied in aromatic rubs on the chest and throat region during inflammation. Regularly taking vitamin and antioxidant supplements can also help to reduce asthma symptoms over time, perhaps eventually eliminating the need for steroids.

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