a wee bit of discomfort

[skygirl62]

hello ….. I’m new to this and now on 12.5g pred for a week and have noticed a bit of discomfort….. but nothing major. Do i stick to this dose and go down as prescribed or go back up to 15g…….it’s all very confusing to say the least. I started on 30 then 20 followed by 15 ….. each for a week, and that was through a rheumatologist.

[Bcol]

Morning Skygirl62, -luv the name! Welcome to the forum, can you add some information to your profile so that we can help with some useful answers. Do you have PMR and/or GCA and when you were you diagnosed?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi, and welcome,

As  Bcol says a bit more info would help, but guessing probably PMR - so maybe have a look at this info -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

But will say a week at each dose is not long enough, needs longer to know that’s enough before you decrease, and you probably do need to go back to 15mg for now, as it does sound as if you’ve gone too low.

Your tapering plan may work for other illnesses where Pred is prescribed but not PMR nor GCA., and reducing 15-12.5-10mg may be a recognised taper, but it doesn’t work for every especially when being rushed.

Please request 1mg tablets - and attempt a slower taper.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

That is a very speedy taper and while it was OK from 30 to 20 as that was still above the usual starting dose for PMR. now you are below 20mg it should slow down considerably. As already said, it takes more than a week to know if the new dose is still adequate to keep the inflammation under control. If you are feeling the difference at 12,5mg it probably means you aren't ready for that yet.

Have you a follow-up appointment with the rheumy or are you now under the care of your GP? How long are you supposed to continue with weekly reductions?

[piglette]

I have found from bitter experience if you have any niggles DO NOT REDUCE. PMR always wins, you need to knock it on the head first.

[FalmouthHeights]

A week is too quick. English expert says 3 weeks at15 and 12.5. Then 4 to 6 weeks at 10. Then 1 mg a month. I think a month each