Prednisone Tapering and Biologic

[Maur81]

Hello, I was diagnosed with moderate to severe crohn's 6 weeks ago after almost 2 years of misdiagnosis. After 2 weeks of budesonide not working I was put on 40mg. prednisone (and not given any other medication). After 2 weeks of that I went down to 35mg and had symptoms of a flare after 4 days so went back up to 40mg which calmed things down. My GI told me I could go back to 35 mg after 5 days and then continue the weekly decrease of 5mg. After 5 days of 35 mg. I couldn't take the shakiness and side effects anymore so went down to 30 mg. 2 days early today. Will this be worse than staying at 35mg for 2 more days? And do most people start a biologic while still on prednisone? Thank you for your advice!

[jackdup]

None of us are doctors here but wouldn’t think going down to 30 2 days early would be of any consequence. It’s not like you stopped taking them altogether, but as always best to get confirmation from you doctor. The pharmacist may be able to tell you as well. I haven’t used biologics so can’t comment on that aspect but wouldn’t think the doctor would start the biologic while you are still taking the steroids. Again never hurts to ask if it is okay to start the biologic while still on the steroid.Good luck.

[Valbaty54]

I don't think two days will matter. I hope it made a difference to your side effects and shakes! I used to get those. I was on Pred and biologics at the same time for over two years, though by then it was only 5mg Pred. Infliximab plus azathioprine has worked well for me. Good luck!

[Kelly100]

Hi Maur! Glad to hear you have a diagnosis and can start treating your symptoms. Prednisone is unfortunately not a long term solution and in many cases is used as a bridge while your maintenance medication kicks in and starts working.

Maintenance meds can include mesalazine, immune suppressants , biologics or a combination of all or some.

Keep your IBD team updated on your progress in case they have to tweak or change your medication.

Feel better soon!