I was on prednisone for a very long time and I have been tapering down for months. Once I got below 5mgs daily I began suffering nausea and muscle pain. Has anyone ever suffered from prednisone withdrawal?
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Yes, in my case it was mostly headaches. I had such issues for a couple months while withdrawing. It’s a medicine you need to get off. You will get over the withdrawal symptoms eventually.
The slowest part of the withdrawal has to be at the lower doses, when the percentage changes tend to be largest. The body’s production of cortisol has been suppressed, and it has to be gently, patiently prodded into resuming production. It’s very dangerous to withdraw too quickly, so don’t ignore the symptoms.
Thanks CTBarrister and Scott F - I have been on heavy doses of steroids for 15 years straight - I assume it will take time.
It will take time. Once you are off, you will eventually need to get a bone density scan done. I was on prednisone for 20 years and it left me with osteopenia. Long term usage is known to effect bones and a bone density scan is a prednisone damage assessment. You might need calcium and vitamin D supps. Discuss with your doctor.
Thanks - great advice.