how to handle a flare

[Januzzi]

I am doing great no pain..I’m down to 7-1/2mg from 20mg with slow taper. 1/2 mg a month over 8 mths but this week my doctor says drop to 6mg from 7-1/2 I’ve been doing so good I’m scared to drop that quick….my question is if I have flare in the next few weeks. Do I add 5 mg to last dose where I felt good ….and then how quickly do I get back to 7-1/2 I really appreciate the information I get from you guys Thank you

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Explanation of dealing with a flare in this link -

healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk...

Hope you won’t need it, but why is doctor telling you to speed up your tapering… once you get to your levels it’s exactly what you don’t need… adrenals will need nudging into life - and a slower taper is best way to do that… as well as for your PMR

You were doing perfectly fine on 0.5mg reduction - what a klutz… not you obviously 🤦🏻‍♀️

[Koalajane]

I really don’t understand why your doctor is asking you to do this as it is asking for trouble! I am very lucky that my doctor lets me control my dose.

Good luck to you if you follow his instructions.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Just say no. It is a useful habit to learn when you have PMR!

Explain you want to continue with what has worked thus far - and which is even more important at lower doses. As you get lower you should get slower - not lose control by speeding up.

[Charlie1boy]

Why oh why oh why???

If it ain’t broke, why try to fix it? I couldn’t agree more with the replies you’ve already had. I managed to get to zero after seven and a half years following an equally slow taper - without any flares.

I know what I’d say?

Good luck.

[sidra1968]

Just say no, say you do not want to risk going backwards at this point..and why would he want to have your risk that? Geez Louise, some of these docs.

[nuigini]

Don't do it!! I agree wholeheartedly with PMRpro.

Congratulations on doing so well so far!

[LemonZest11]

Sometimes you just have to remind your doc that it's your body. All the info on here is to the contrary of his instructions. Be strong and stay your course.