Which systemic corticosteroid is commonly prescribed for its anti-inflammatory effects?

Prednisone is a systemic corticosteroid widely prescribed for its potent anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in conditions like asthma. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, work by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands. They inhibit the inflammatory response, reducing inflammation in the airways, which is a major component of asthma exacerbations.

When asthma is poorly controlled, especially during acute episodes, systemic corticosteroids like prednisone can effectively diminish airway inflammation, improve lung function, and reduce symptoms. This is vital for managing severe asthma attacks and preventing further complications that could arise from uncontrolled inflammation.

The other options listed, such as ipratropium, cromolyn, and levalbuterol, serve different roles in asthma treatment. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic medication that primarily helps with bronchodilation, while cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer that prevents the release of inflammatory mediators but is not a corticosteroid. Levalbuterol is a short-acting beta-agonist that works as a bronchodilator. None of these options provide the same systemic anti-inflammatory effects that prednisone does, making it the correct choice in this context.