Questions about using prednisone for a flare

[gnstric66]

Hello I have recently been taken off of methotrexate and only using rinvoq also using some Celebrex and Tylenol. Those meds are really not enough, I've started having pain in feet and overall inflammation. My doctor said I can have prednisone if I need it. I was just wondering how much prednisone do most people use for a flare-up I have a 5 mg dosage but I don't really know for how many days to use it. I just wondered if anyone has been able use for short term and get better and stop. Thanks

[Ferret18]

I guess it’s different for different people and your doctor will know other issues you may have and how the prednisone interacts with other drugs you are taking.

I’m currently on a 29 day reducing amount of prednisone due to a flare. Started on 60mg, now on 20mg and sue to go down to 10mg next week.

[Durrell]

Well RA flares as & when & yes short term steroids can help but proper treatment really needs to be put in place. With experience now I wish I’d known more in the beginning about steroid use, you will be fine to use it & 5mg may help you initially, did your dr not give you any idea how you should take it? as it’s all new to you I think I would call the surgery & ask for advise. It could be a 5 or 10 day course??. I was told steroids are great for a quick fix but not long term which now I know more I agree with. Give the surgery a call get the right advise for you.,

[claresabbara]

Hi, most people are given a set dosage to be taken twice a day. Either 5mg or 10mg twice a day. I would certainly start with 5 mg and see how it manages symptoms. I had side effects affecting my vision as do some others or weight gain. Many people have no problems at all. So I would start low and increase if needed but contact your doctor to confirm the dosage is correct or needs to be increased. I hope it helps you

[rwandle]

I am in the USA and my doctor prescribed 5 mg and to take two tablets only when needed. I never take it more than two days.

[gnstric66 in reply to rwandle]

Thanks so much