Short courses of oral prednisolone tablets will be used to treat flare ups (exacerbations) of COPD along with antibiotics if needed, usually for 7 to 14 days. The prescribed dose of tablets are taken preferably in the morning, after breakfast. Side effects include fluid retention, indigestion, increased appetite and sleeplessness.
As part of a self management plan you can discuss with your healthcare professional whether you can have a supply of steroids and antibiotics at home to help self manage your condition. This is sometimes called “rescue medication” and is only used if you have a flare up or exacerbation.