Never stop Prednisone abruptly. Reducing your dose gradually is key to minimizing withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor should create a personalized tapering schedule, but here’s a general guideline for consideration:
Discuss your tapering plan with your doctor. This is paramount for your safety and health. They’ll factor in your health condition and individual needs. Begin with small reductions. A common approach is to decrease the dose by 2.5mg or 5mg every few days or every week. This slow decrease allows your body to adjust. Monitor yourself closely. Pay attention to any symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, muscle weakness, or mood changes. Report these immediately to your doctor. Adjust the tapering schedule as needed. If you experience significant side effects, your doctor may slow the reduction rate. Don’t hesitate to communicate any concerns. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Adequate rest, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can support your body during the tapering process. Expect some withdrawal symptoms. These are common and usually manageable. Your doctor can help you manage these symptoms. Don’t self-adjust your dosage. Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Unnecessary adjustments can be harmful.
Possible symptoms during tapering include:
- Fatigue Joint pain and stiffness Muscle aches and weakness Headaches Mood changes (irritability, depression) Increased appetite Weight gain
Remember, a slow and carefully managed taper is crucial for a safe transition off Prednisone. Regular communication with your doctor is essential throughout this process.
