Prednisone reduction

[Seal49]

Started reducing my prednisone f r om 30 mg a day by 2.5 every two weeks and mow at 22.5. I follow this site continuously and get the impression this is on the fast side. Talked to Rheumatologist about slowing down a b d staying at 22.5 longer. He insists I should continue and start 20 mg now. I tried to swim yesterday in our pool and do have some leg aching. Maybe just unrelated. Do you think I should get another Rheumatologist? Sounds like slower is better. He says if pain starts then just go back to 22.5. Not sure what to do.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

We consider every 2 weeks too fast - you usually need at least 3 weeks to know if the new dose is still enough. However, 30mg is a high starting dose for PMR and that is possibly why he is so keen on speedy reduction.

When you resume exercise - start small and easy at first. And rest on alternate days. It is difficult to undo having done too much - so increase slowly.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Ditto to PMRpro’s comments -it can take 2 weeks before you know if current dose is enough before you reduce.

Yes you can return to previous dose, but better to stay on current for an extra week or preferably two to be sure, rather than start yo-yoing -that’s just counterproductive - and demoralising for you, the patient..