17.5 mg prednisolone

[Helliwelli12]

Tapered down to 17.5 mg but getting shoulder pain and head twinges. I've noticed at 20 mg I feel better. Wondering if I should taper back up to 20 mg.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

How long have you been at 17.5mg? And how long were you at 20mg previously?

Know you recently returned to work - so perhaps you are trying to do too much for the amount of Pred you are taking.

Think I might go back to 20mg -and give it at least a month on that dose, and time to get back into work routine.

Then try reducing by 1mg a time (monthly).

[Helliwelli12 in reply to DorsetLady]

I've been on 17.5 about 4 days prior to that was on 20 mg for two weeks. Yes I'm on phased return mornings only this week but finding it difficult to remember some processes yes I may switch back to 20 again.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Helliwelli12]

As only 4 days since reduction it could be steroid withdrawal, and it may improve, but think in your case I’d be inclined to go back to 20mg for at least a month… 2 weeks is not long enough at any dose, to know it’s sufficient before you reduce. Plus working makes it all the more difficult… so steady as you go.. and good luck, hope the concentration returns.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

I agree with all DL has said - I think you do have to question whether you can restart work and taper pred at the same time. And where the priorities should lie.

[Helliwelli12 in reply to PMRpro]

I appreciate your concern but I don't have the freedom to give up work and will only be paid 50% sick pay now and I am a single lady with bills to pay. This was why I had to try and go back to work. I know I may still have to retire for medical reasons and have not ruled it out yet. But if I did retire I would have to sell my house and move which is more stress on top of my health issues.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Helliwelli12]

Yes, I do get that, I really do. BUT if you carry on and get completely broken, you won;t be able to work at all and maybe for much longer. Do make sure you have done your homework on the options available to you.