Azmacort and avascular necrosis??

[Jennif102]

Hello-
I just read an article today about SARS patients in Beijing who received high doses of steroids to be cured and now are suffering from Avascular Necrosis- brittle bone disease.

I know that Azmacort is an inhalant and a much weaker steroid than, say, taking prednisone all the time, but I have been taking 3-4 puffs of ventoline and 3-4 puffs of azmacort everyday for probably the last 10-14 years at least (I am currently 26).
I am just wondering if long term use of azmacort can harm your bones...lead to arthritis, etc.

I think Azmacort has done wonders for my asthma, so I do not want to get off it unless it will cause permanent bone damage, in which case I would love recommendations for a good subsitute.

Thanks and regards.

[bluebanana]

As far as I am aware inhaled steroids are not linked with osteoporosis or thining of the bones. The fact they are inhaled means that only a small amount goes into the blood stream and the doses are small. It is oral steroids like prednislone which can cause problems. If you are still worried talk to your doctor about it, or read the advice you are given with your medication.
Good luck

[wrin]

NO.

NO NO NO NO NO.

NO a thousand times.

Intravenous solu-medrol and a couple puffs of azmacort are two completely different things. That's like the difference between taking Tylenol 2's after a bit of a knee thing and somebody on high-dose daily Dilaudid intravenously for chronic pain.

NOT the same thing.