May cause hypercorticism or suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, particularly in younger children or in patients receiving high doses for prolonged periods (risk of adrenal crisis). Withdrawal and discontinuation of a corticosteroid should be done slowly and carefully. Bronchospasm may occur with wheezing after inhalation. Not to be used in status asthmaticus or for the relief of acute bronchospasm. Avoid nasal corticosteroid use in nasal wounds until healing. Prolonged use of corticosteroids may increase the incidence of secondary infection, mask acute infection (including fungal infections), prolong or exacerbate viral infections, or limit response to vaccines. Exposure to chickenpox and measles should be avoided. Use caution in active or quiescent tuberculosis infections or in ocular herpes. Prolonged treatment with corticosteroids has been associated with the development of Kaposi’s sarcoma. Candida albicans infections (mostly mild to moderate) of the mouth and pharynx may occur with orally-inhaled corticosteroid use. Rare cases of vasculitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome) or other eosinophilic conditions (e.g. vasculitic rash, decreased pulmonary function, cardiac complications) can occur. Use with caution in cataracts and/or glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure, open-angle glaucoma, and cataracts have occurred with prolonged use). Use with caution in osteoporosis (risk of increased bone loss and osteoporotic fractures). Use with caution in history of seizure disorder. Metabolic clearance of corticosteroids increases in hyperthyroidism and decreases in hypothyroidism. May cause reduction in growth velocity in pediatric patients.