A nurse is teaching a client who has been taking prednisone to treat asthma and has a new prescription to discontinue the medication. The nurse should explain to the client to reduce the dose gradually to prevent which of the following adverse effects?

Robitussin A-C contains codeine, which is an opioid antitussive that can have sedating effects. One of the major disadvantages of using this medication is the potential for drowsiness as a side effect. This can impair the client's ability to perform tasks that require alertness and can interfere with daily activities.
The other options listed are not the major disadvantage of antitussive therapy with Robitussin A-C:
The medication is irritating to the bronchial tree: Robitussin A-C is primarily used as an antitussive (cough suppressant) rather than for its effects on the bronchial tree. While it may have some mild irritant properties due to certain ingredients, it is not considered a major disadvantage of this medication.
The client may use the medication for 14 days: The duration of use for Robitussin A-C is typically determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's condition. While prolonged use of antitussives is generally not recommended without medical supervision, the duration of use is not considered the major disadvantage of this medication.
The medication is very expensive: The cost of medication can vary, and while cost may be a consideration for some individuals, it is not considered the major disadvantage of Robitussin
A-C specifically. The major disadvantage relates more to the potential for drowsiness caused by the medication.

A. Administering the granules mixed with 20 oz of water is not necessary. Montelukast granules can be administered directly into the mouth or mixed with a small amount of soft food (e.g., applesauce) if necessary. The specific instructions for administration should be provided by the healthcare provider or included in the product labeling.

B.If you’re using it to prevent breathing problems related to exercise, take a single dose at least 2 hours before exercising. However, another dose cannot be taken within 24 hours.

C.Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist commonly used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in children and adults. The usual recommended dose is once daily in the evening, depending on the specific instructions from the healthcare provider.

D. Administering the medication at the onset of wheezing is not the recommended approach. Montelukast is a daily maintenance medication for asthma and should be taken regularly as prescribed, regardless of wheezing symptoms. It is not intended to be used for immediate relief of wheezing or acute asthma symptoms. Short-acting bronchodilators are typically used for quick relief of wheezing or acute asthma symptoms.