PRED ALTERNATE DAILY DOSAGE

[Radancer]

I am currently on 5mg then 4mg on alternate days however I read about pill cutters on this forum so I bought one today.

My intention was to split a 5 tab into 2.5 plus two 1mg = 4.5mg and take that everyday to equalise the daily dosage so I am taking same amount each day.

Would anybody no if there are any benefits / drawbacks to doing either of the above alternatives.

My other question is that I tapered from 20mg to 5mg in one year which I am led to believe is pretty fast all things considered for a 68 year old male.

Currently I have a good quality of life with only a little stiffness in upper arms and legs that I can easily live with for the rest of my life and just wondered what other people of similar age and dosage experience with regards pain and what they can and cant do

My other tips that have helped me pred / gym / sauna / steam room / vodka and I rub my arms and legs with Tiger Balm everyday which does not have long term side effects such as ibuprofen gels.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Personally I think it’s better to take same amount each day - then your body knows what to expect. If you alternate I’m not sure it’s the best way - although it does seem to be popular with some Rheumies.

As you don’t seem to be having many problems it may not make any difference - but you won’t know unless you try!

You have reduced quite quickly - so maybe you are one of the lucky ones. But just be aware not to go too fast from now on - sometimes the lower you get the more difficult it becomes.

Normal aches and pains of life do return on lower doses, and it’s sometimes difficult to know what is what. A little stiffness can be “normal” and liveable with but don’t let it get any worse just in case it is PMR complaining.

[Radancer in reply to DorsetLady]

Yes I agree that equal dose each day would be best. Was previously on 5 mg per day so I just guess that doctor not familiar with pill cutters or he probably would have prescribed 4.5 mg.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Radancer]

It is possible to get 2.5mg tablets too. I don't think most doctors think about reducing in 1/2mg steps - it wouldn't be done with most uses of pred as people are just on it for a short time, reducing in fairly big steps to zero, or they are on a standard dose for a kong time, often for life,

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to PMRpro]

You beat me to it!

[Radancer in reply to DorsetLady]

Asked my chemist about 2.5mg but they do stock them as there is not a great calling for them plus the pill cutter is really easy to use

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Radancer]

Fine - always used a pill cutter without any problem - still do for other meds.

[Radancer in reply to Radancer]

Also meant to say that Tiger Balm is good for headaches as well and I checked with chemist that does not interact with pred or any other medication. I swear by it so have posted a few details from another site. I find red the most effective.

TIGER BALM WHITE

Effective soothing relief from tension headaches

Containing our unique blends of herbal ingredients, Tiger Balm has been used for generations. Each little jar of Tiger Balm White provides an alternative way to relieve the pain of tension headaches.

11% Natural Camphor

8.0% Menthol

1.5% Clove Oil

13.0% Cajuput Oil

Also contains: Dementholised Mint Oil, Yellow Soft Paraffin and Hard Paraffin

Muscular aches & pains: to be rubbed gently on the affected parts of skin as necessary (usually 2 to 3 times daily).

Tension headache: Rub a small amount onto the forehead or temples using a circular motions. Repeat at 30 minutes and one hour after the initial application.

TIGER BALM RED

Herbal relief from aches and pains.

Inspired by centuries of Chinese wisdom, Tiger Balm brings effective relief to millions around the world. Tiger Balm Red has an aromatic formula which helps soothe sore and aching muscles.

11.0% Natural Camphor

10.0% Menthol

5.0% Clove Oil

7.0% Cajuput Oil

Also contains: Cinnamon Oil, Dementholised Mint Oil, Yellow Soft Paraffin and Hard Paraffin.

To be rubbed gently on the affected parts of skin as necessary (usually 2 to 3 times daily).

***

[Hidden in reply to Radancer]

The Chemist can simply order the uncoated 2.5mg Tablets in for you & they are useful for splitting into 1.25mg as your taper gets lower.

[Radancer in reply to Hidden]

You are correct and will keep that in mind if I get to 1.5mg. At the moment I have 6 month supply of 5 and 4 tablets which will cut to 4.5. so probably not worth changing and If I am lucky and get to 4 then wont need splitter or 2.5 tabs for a long time yet and If I am really lucky and get down to 3.5 mg the 2.5 tab plus a 1 tab will do the trick but as you say I will just take things day by day. As I said before my lifestyle thankfully is good now at current dose as I am led to believe anything below 7 is not considered a worry.

[SheffieldJane]

You seem to be doing pretty well - no fatigue?

My Endocrinologist favoured alternating the dose as an Adrenal stimulant. I feel better on the higher dose ( 4.5 mgs). Nice regime - I must try the Vodka. Good luck. Look out for any increase in symptoms. That was a quick taper.