I just had a check up with my Pulmonologist and as we were going over prescriptions I mentioned that some of the people on this web site had this stuff in their medicine cabinet in case of emergency. Anyway she got up to get me some free samples of spiriva and symbicort and we kept talking and never did get back to the prednisone. I will find out from her but also want to know what some of you guys might think would be cause for an emergency. Then how many of the pills are you suppose to sallow? I also have that proair to open my airways in case of bad SOB. Just thought I'd ask. Thanks.