My husband was diagnosed with COPD several years ago, over the last year he has had pneumonia or pleurisy often. Since last February he has been continuously for 20 days will be off for 8 days and then will have to start the prednisone all over again. I am afraid of the effects the steroids may have on him. He is also on Spirivia, Ventolin and Albuterol. Can anyone give me any guidance?