My mum has been on 60mg pred for 4 weeks and her CRP levels are now down to 3 so our GP has said its ok to reduce to 50mg which we were happy to do.My mum has chest infection and terrible cough and just been given course of antibiotics for it.
My question is should we wait till this has cleared up before reducing the steroids?
We have next appointment with rheumatologist on Tuesday.
Honestly, it never rains….
Have you discussed this with the doctor who prescribed the antibiotics? Ideally you should. Does the Rheumy have a number to call such as for the Rheumy nurse for urgent queries?
Reasons for (only my opinion) - 50mg is still a hefty dose and above what a GP would prescribe for some respiratory flare ups. It is still a decent dose for GCA for most people. 10mg less Pred might reduce the immunosuppression slightly. It might help feel less being away with the fairies.
Reasons against - It’s less likely at high doses but she may get withdrawal symptoms which might make her feel worse for a few days and might confuse the picture when you might want a level playing field. That extra 10mg might be holding off a flare if one is being goaded by the infection.
Think you probably need medical input on this -I’d be inclined to hold off decreasing until abx course finished -but that’s just personal opinion.
I'd wait unti the abx are finished and the chest infection improved - and then I'd drop 5mg first for a week and then the other 5mg.
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