I've had a diagnosis of PA for 3 years, 3 months. My former rheumatologist had me on 10 mg of Prednisone a day for 3 years, supplemented periodically with additional 5 mg. dosages and Cortisone Injections. In February of this year on the instruction of my new Rheumatologist, I tapered off prednisone. Since that taper, and being off Prednisone I have developed terrible aches and stiffness from my low back down as well as increased exhaustion. I was told by my new rheumatologist, as well as a physical therapist that these symptoms are from Prednisone Withdrawal. Can anyone tell me how long this will last?? Is there anything that can be done for it? Is the physical therapy likely to help? Thanks, Ann in Central Florida - Does anyone know anything about prednisone withdrawal and how long it lasts? I was on 10 mg of Prednisone daily for three years. Came off in February of this year and feel terrible (and stupid for letting it happen to me, not questioning it). Is there any way to expedite the process - stiffness and pain, really slowing me down - far worse than my PsA. Plus more exhaustion and depression. Anyone know anything about this? I believe the procedure is to wean one off the drug, taking smaller doses, varying days etc. Doctors I know usually follow that routine. I don't know however what dose this would be used with. Fr. William you definitely should not stop cold turkey my rheumy's regimen for going off before I had my knee replaced last July "05" was 9mg for 5 days 8mg for5 down to 0 about 2 months of tapering- I had been on 5 or 10 daily for ten years after the surgery for some reason I have not had to go back onto the MTX or the pred just 150 mg voltarin daily, glucosamine, fish oils I say a prayer every night ---- Hi, I suggest that you check with your physician about having a bone density test to see if prednisone has affected your bones or your parathyroid glands, which are located in your neck, just below your thyroid glands. Take care and strive to be happy. Sincerely, William Reid ----- Ann, I was on 30mg for over a year but my rheumy took me off of it so slowly I didn't have any problems. I have been on MTX alone for more than 3 years now and am beginning to have pain and stiffness increasing everywhere in my bod. Something I would really like to learn is how to get rid of the fatigue. Since I also have fibromyalgia I seem to be getting a double whammy. What I wouldn't give for some "get up and go"! I hope someone has a better answer for you as to what to do now. I would call my rheumy to find out if he couln't hellp you through this painful period. God Bless! Janet in Ca |
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