When it comes to treating an allergic reaction, your doctor may adjust the dose of steroid as needed. For children, the dosage should be determined by a medical professional. Acute severe allergic contact dermatitis, such as that caused by poison ivy, is usually treated with a two-week course of systemic corticosteroids. Most adults require a starting dose of 40 to 60 mg.
The oral corticosteroid should be gradually reduced over a two-week period. However, a complicated reduction regimen is not necessary due to the short duration of systemic corticosteroid use.
