Which of the following is a short-term oral corticosteroid option for asthma?

The correct answer is cortisone, as it is a short-term oral corticosteroid that can be used in the management of asthma, particularly for acute exacerbations. Cortisone is a pro-drug that is metabolized to cortisol in the body and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce airway inflammation during asthma attacks.

Methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, and betamethasone are also corticosteroids and may be used in various clinical settings to manage inflammation. However, they are more commonly associated with systemic conditions or can be administered in different forms (e.g., IV or IM) rather than being considered the first-line choices in the context of short-term oral corticosteroid options specifically for asthma. While they have similar effects in reducing inflammation, cortisone is traditionally recognized for its use in acute asthma exacerbations in the oral form.