I think after 20 years you sure might be unable to produce your own cortisol. Prednisolone is well absorbed rectally, so it’s not all that different from taking a pill. Muscle and joint aches are one symptom of adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol), but it can be pretty dangerous, too. Perhaps you (or your pharmacist) could call around to other pharmacies to check availability. I suggest you contact your doctor ASAP for some suggestions. If the suppositories are really not to be found, you could substitute Cortifoam or a cortisone enema. Stopping cold turkey is a bad idea.

Thanks, I have tried every possible avenue but apparently it's down to the manufacturers, am using budenofalk pretty unsuccessfully

Budenofalk (budesonide) might be a poor choice in this case. Although it should generally be adequate for proctitis, budesonide isn’t as well absorbed as prednisolone. This makes it good for someone trying to minimize systemic side effects, but not so good for someone who *needs* systemic absorption to replace the missing cortisol from atrophied adrenal glands.

Thanks again Scott, have you got any suggestions as to what might help, I can't get hold of any prednisolone rectal preparations at the moment. Also I wonder if anyone has any ideas on how to deal with these withdrawal symptoms??

I previously suggested Cortifoam or cortisone enemas, but your doctor would have a better idea than I do what’s available in the UK. If what you are having is steroid withdrawal then steroids are necessary ASAP. Heck, oral prednisone would be better than cold turkey steroid withdrawal.

Thanks again, still waiting for answers!!

Just got answer from consultant, he says I would NOT get any withdrawal from prednisolone suppositories so....... 

Well, the consultant may be describing the most common scenario, and there are certainly other possible causes of joint pain, but here’s what it says in the package:

”It is very important that you do not suddenly stop using Prednisolone Suppositories even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop using your medicine too suddenly, you may suffer from some of the following: Fever, joint and muscle pain, itching eyes, nose or skin, mood changes, loss of weight, low hormone levels and low blood pressure, symptoms of which may include dizziness, headaches or fainting. In extreme cases this can be fatal. Your doctor will tell you how to stop using Prednisolone Suppositories.”

Thanks Scott