Osteoporosis causes brittle bones and can lead to bone fractures, especially in active children. Nearly 5 million children in the United States have asthma. National Jewish looked at the side effects of steroids on adrenal gland suppression, cataracts, cushionoid disease and hypertension, making National Jewish's study the most comprehensive ever published focusing on steroid side effects in children. The last time medical researchers performed a similar study was more than 35 years ago. In addition, asthma itself can limit growth.
Inhaled corticosteroids decrease and prevent swelling of the airways.
Oral corticosteroids, in pill or syrup form, relax tight muscles around airways. Any question regarding a medical diagnosis, treatment, referral, drug availability or pricing should be directed to either a licensed physician or to the product's manufacturer.