The effect of alternate-day prednisone therapy on cortisol secretion rate in corticosteroid-dependent asthmatics.

The effect of alternate-day prednisone regimen (nine-patients) on cortisol secretion rate was compared with daily therapeutic regimen (ten patients) in corticosteroid-dependent asthmatics. Only the alternate-day regimen did not suppress the adrenal function. The therapeutic efficacy of both regimens was equal. The advantages of alternate-day corticosteroid therapy are presented and the optimal way of starting this therapy discussed.