Basal cortisol test result

[Billswife]

Following my previous post, I had blood taken on 10 June and have just phoned my GP surgery for the result, which was given as 396nmol/l. The GP had noted “no further suppression required”. I would now like to start reducing Prednisolone 1mg to 0.75mg using Dorset Lady’s 7-week reduction plan and see how that goes before continuing to 0.5mg over the next 7 weeks. I would really appreciate the opinion of this forum before making this decision. My instinct after following a very slow reduction over the past five years is not to rush the final stages. I look forward to your thoughts and, once again, thank you for your guidance and support.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

What a strange comment to make! Why would you take pred to suppress cortisol production!!! But yes - your adrenal suppression is returning to normal and for day to day living that is a good level - but it doesn't mean that they will respond fully in an emergency situation so be aware, it is thought to take up to a year for that even after being off pred altogether.

And absolutely right - slow and steady is still the watchword even at this really low dose. There is still the PMR to consider - it may be at a very very low level of activity but we say again and again - even 1/2mg can be plenty to keep inflammation under control so keep on the way you have been - just in case. I really hope it will be a precaution you didn't need!

[Billswife in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you PMRPro for your prompt response. I will continue cautiously, exercising the patience I have had to learn - patience not being an attribute that comes naturally to me! I will also try to avoid that particular GP!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Billswife]

I suspect most of us are in the same boat when it comes to patience!!!

[Pink_and_Black in reply to Billswife]

I was emailed to respond to your question but PMR and Dorset Lady are the experts and I would always take their advice. I’m happy for you that you’re on the final stages of reduction. Take it steady and you’ll get there. x

[Billswife in reply to Pink_and_Black]

Thank you, I will.

[Elvied in reply to PMRpro]

My niece has overactive adrenals and too much cortisol. They put her on 25mgs of prednisone to try to reduce the cortisone level .that level is normal so no more prednisone needed

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Elvied]

But the pred just added to the corticosteroid effect in the body - so why/how?

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Agree with PMRpro - odd comment.

..and yes continue with slow taper, and small steps... certainly no rushing to the [hopefully] finish line!

[Billswife in reply to DorsetLady]

Thanks Dorset Lady, there will be no rushing here!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Billswife]

Pleased to hear it!😊