Medication
I have had a prednisone daily of 10 mg. But after about 4 yrs of it my blood sugar was affected. That was over 15 years ago. Prednisone really helps me yet
My doctor won’t prescribe it! Wondering if my rheumatoid doc might let me try it again? Or am I just cut off unless I have a super flare!
That's a great question,
! Unfortunately, we are not medical professionals, so I can't say one way or another if your rheumatologist would feel comfortable with you trying prednisone again, but hopefully any of our community members with personal experience can chime in here and let you know whether or not they were able to use prednisone after having blood sugar affected.
That being said, are you also on other medication to help with your RA? Most doctors do not like to use prednisone long term (although there are, of course, exceptions) as there can be usage consequences, as well as the fact that the prednisone doesn't do anything to help stop the advancement of RA. Typically doctors will use prednisone as an addition to another medication, or as an "as needed" situation. (Here is more information on steroids and RA, https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment/steroids) Obviously, I have no idea what your rheumatologist is like, so I can't say how they would feel about prednisone, but it certainly doesn't hurt to talk through this with them.
I'm also sharing a link to an article with more information on types of treatments for RA, https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/treatment, in case you're interested.
Hopefully you will get some input from other community members here, and the articles I shared will help get a conversation going with the doctor. Please, if you're comfortable, let us know how things go. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)thanks so much!! You are so kind. I’m enjoying being able to chat with ppl and read all the info and comments. Others can be a huge help. Having a better day today so all is good. oh I'm so glad, both that you're able to connect with others here, and that you're having a better day! We're so glad to have community members like you here. -- Warmly, Christine (Team Member)
Hi Lolo
Corticosteroids have a hidden cost in terms of long-term use. General practitioners are great but they cannot be an expert in best practices for every condition under the sun. I suggest you seek a board-certified rheumatologist.
Ok... so that out of the way, I have been seeing the same rheumatologist for the past 10 years (basically, since I was diagnosed). When I experience symptom flares, we use prednisone on a taper schedule, not as a long-term option. I usually start at 20mg and work down over the next 30-45 days.
Prednisone is a double-edged sword. It makes me feel ***great***. Generally, I can take care of house projects that I put off because it makes me feel that good. That said, it carries side effects, such as the blood sugar issue you mentioned. I won't go into details on that but it is just one reason that non-specialists shy away from writing long-term prescriptions.
Best wishes to you!
Teri
