How to finally get off steroids

[PenelopeVita-Finzi]

I have been on steroids for GCA for nearly 5 years. After some ups and downs I have now been on 1 mg for about two months. I had a hip replacement 3 weeks ago and didn’t want to try coming off pred until that was over. Does any one have any advice for this final stage? Would dead slow method be slow enough?

[SnazzyD]

Hello, well done for navigating the op. I guess the big question is how do you feel, in all ways? Are you still on Methotrexate?

[PenelopeVita-Finzi in reply to SnazzyD]

Yes, I am still on Methotrexate.

[SnazzyD in reply to PenelopeVita-Finzi]

How are you doing generally, do you feel up to a drop?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi,

Should be, but to be extra careful you could try reducing to 0.5mg on the first taper and then to zero on the second. That’s what I did.

Enjoy your new hip! I’ve almost forgotten about mine now - January this year. But just be aware, a joint replacement MAY make your ESR rise.

Good luck.

[PenelopeVita-Finzi in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you. I shall take your advice. I have been holding off taking the dose down because of the hip operation.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You can only try - and it may be that 1mg is what is keeping things under wraps. And at 1mg I'd be in no hurry.

[PenelopeVita-Finzi]

Yes, I might as well jog along happily! It would be wonderful to get off all the pulls that go with the steroids & metho tho’. Many thanks.