How Much Steroid Should You Take for an Allergic Reaction?

When it comes to treating an allergic reaction, your doctor may adjust the dose of steroid as needed. Learn more about the recommended dosage and how to reduce it.

How Much Steroid Should You Take for an Allergic Reaction?

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.