What is a commonly used systemic steroid?

Prednisone is commonly used as a systemic steroid due to its potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. It is frequently prescribed to manage conditions such as asthma exacerbations, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups, autoimmune disorders, and other inflammatory conditions. When given systemically, prednisone acts on various immune pathways, providing rapid relief from inflammation and helping to control symptoms.

In contrast, the other options listed are primarily inhaled corticosteroids or are used via local delivery routes. Fluticasone and beclomethasone are predominantly utilized in inhalers for direct delivery to the lungs, which minimizes systemic side effects. While budesonide can also be inhaled, it is frequently administered in nebulized form for asthma or COPD but still operates mainly in a localized manner when inhaled. Hence, they are not classified as systemic steroids like prednisone.