Is it normal after reaching your lowest mgs 3 that it will take awhile for your body to adjust. I am having some pain but not terrible.

[Nickie]

[PMRpro Ambassador]

If you are having pain that suggests you are at the borderline of "lowest dose to control symptoms". If they continue to get worse then you would possibly be better going back to the last dose you were fine at.

But you don't say how fast you have reduced: it should NEVER be more than 10% of your current dose. Once you are at 5mg that means even 1/2mg at a time is pushing it. There are schemes for reducing at that level that cover that - will give you details if you are interested. Many people struggle at that dose - you are not alone.

[suzieh]

I got down to 5.5mg in early Dec. and then over a couple of weeks the pains crept back followed by a really bad week - 2nd week of jan (the first flare I had experienced). Initially I tried to ignore the unwell feelings and pains taking occasional paracetamol but finally had to admit the steroid dose was not enough and had to go up again - 7mg seemed to be ok so I have stayed on that for 2 weeks and then reduced back to 6.5 mg. Going to stay on this for a few weeks until I feel I can reduce again... Hope this is helpful. You are not alone!

[Falkers]

Hi, I have just come down to 3mg. My Rheumy suggested 1mg per month, and to give it two weeks to settle. I have mild ache in my back and feel a bit tired, but will stick with this to see if it settles. Will let you know.

[IslandShell in reply to Falkers]

Hi Falkers, I am down to 3mg. also at a reduction of 1mg. per month. The mornings are quite painful with sore thighs and fingers. Things get better as the day goes on but do get suddenly worn out in the late afternoon. My hands and wrists did not bother me when first diagnosed with PMR, that pain came some months into it. I will be very interested in how your reductions go. Good wishes to you .

[Falkers in reply to IslandShell]

Hi Merk, Thanks for that, I will let you know how I progress. Good wishes to you too.

[jinasc]

Send a PM with home email address and I will send you a reduction plan.