How long to stay on lower dose when tapering

[arvine]

Been on pred for over 7 yrs, got down to 4 mgs Dec 2022, then haf gca symtons rheumy increase to 49 again, had several issues in 2023, back, gluteal tears, lost my son in july 2023 , tapering again , now down to 4 mgs for over 2 weeks, still going yhrough some emotional and physical pain, but rheumy and I agree after so long want to get off pred, how long does anyone suggest I stay at 4 mgs before tapering to3 mgs

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Usual advice is anything between 4-8 weeks before reducing… and maybe try only 0.5mg as you have been on Pred for so long.

Really is no rush at such low dose…

And do you realise you have posted this twice.

[arvine in reply to DorsetLady]

No didnt realize, but brain still bit on overload, thank you

[PMRpro Ambassador]

For a start I wouldn't go straight from 4 to 3mg, at least go via 3.5mg and use one of the slowed tapers to slow it down as much as you want. Once you feel OK, you can try to start a very slow taper and see how you get on. If it doesn't suit you, you can stop and wait a bit longer.

[arvine in reply to PMRpro]

Ok thank you, so do you suggest after 3 weeks when down To 4 every day can start tapering to 3 1/2?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to arvine]

It sounded as if you are already at 4mg every day? There is NO hurry. If you rush at it you will just get into trouble.

[Bcol]

Five week 0.5mg DL tapers works well for me and even then only start the next one if all feels well. You may find you need longer as you get even lower. Trying to rush at this stage may well end up with you taking even more Pred in the long term.

[arvine in reply to Bcol]

yes that seems to be what most people advise, thank you

[autumnlass]

Take Care. 🙂