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COPD Exacerbation — UKMLA MCQ

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HardRespiratory MedicineCOPD ExacerbationUKMLAMRCGP AKTPARAPSA

A 69-year-old with a COPD exacerbation is prescribed oral prednisolone. There is no pneumonia and no indication for hospital admission. What duration is recommended?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Five days

The best answer is “Five days”. For an acute COPD exacerbation managed with systemic corticosteroid, prednisolone 30 mg daily for 5 days is recommended. Longer courses increase hyperglycaemia, mood, infection and bone risks without routine added benefit. Spirometry is not used to determine when an acute steroid course ends.

Reference: NICE NG115: COPD in over 16s: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng115/chapter/Recommendations