PREDNISONE
Hi guys! I would like others comments regarding the use of Prednisone. I have been on it over 15 years. My rheumy doc wants me to cut out the drug - slowly. I am now at 3 one mg per day & am really struggling with pain & fatigue. Can anyone relate?? I've dutifully done my blood work all these years which show no side effects so far from this drug.. Thanks!
Please tell us what your diagnosis is and if you're on any other drugs for a rheumatoid condition. I have rheumatoid arthritis mostly in my hands/wrist and feet/ankles. I take Leflunomide for the R.A. Been on Prednisone 15 plus years.
Thanks for the info. It helps to understand the big picture.
I think Pred is a wonder drug in certain situations. Before I went on Humira [about 15 years ago], and the MTX by itself wasn't working well, I was getting corticosteroid shots in many of my major joints. It was a godsend. However, FOR ME, Pred pills make me rebound when I get off them. [I've had to go on the Pred pills for COPD bronchitis flares.]
Pred is not meant as a long term solution. It's to get you over the hump - translation.....maybe a month. So hopefully you will discuss weaning off the Pred with your rheumatologist. At the same time you might want to discuss with him/her starting biologics, which are targeted for RA. While Pred may make you feel somewhat better, it doesn't do quite the job of arresting RA.
Hi,
! In addition to Drea's advice, I wanted to share this article on the ups and downs of prednisone -- https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/the-prednisone-roller-coaster. Check out the reader comments at the end of the article for some insight into others' experiences with prednisone. It can cause some serious long term side effects, which is probably why your rheumatologist is wanting to taper you down/off of it.
I hope this information is helpful for you and I also hope you get more feedback from other community members!
And, most of all, I hope your pain and fatigue begin to decrease!
Best, Erin, RheumatoidArthritis.net Team Member.
