Hypothyroidism n intake of prednisone

[Alsaba]

I hv been taking prednisone since many years as i m a patient of rheumatoid arthritis now in my recent blood test my tsh came around 30. Is it caused by prolong intake of steroids??

[PMRpro Ambassador]

This isn't really the place to get info about that - we all have PMR/GCA.

However, usually pred suppresses the TSH level so that it appears that thyroid function is good and less thyroxine is required. Your level is very high so that suggests you may be developing poor throid function. I think you need to speak to your doctor about being referred to a thyroid specialist.

[Casia]

I had to lower my thyroxine dose recently having been on Pred for 2 and a bit years and the same dose of thyroxine for 35 years but my tsh level was not as high as yours, you should certainly see your doctor or endocrinologist . Good luck !