calcium supplement

[Winckle]

Was on 10 mg for 9 months, now down to 7 after a year. Heard of calcium supplement being prescribed for some friends (female). Is that something everyone on steroids should be taking?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Most on here who are diagnosed with either PMR and/or GCA are prescribed a VitaminD/Calcium supplement alongside their Pred, but also start on higher dose than 10mg..

Looking at profile am guessing you don't have either of those illnesses, but that doesn't mean the Pred isn't leaching calcium from your bones... suggest you speak to your doctor.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Short answer - yes. Pred increases the excretion of calcium through the kidneys so there is a risk less is absorbed in the gut and less gets to the bones, This can result in reduced bone density. You do need calcium and vit D (vit D improves calcium absorption), you don't necessarily need a "bone protection" drug, that is the next step up.