Stopping Prednisone: Tapering Off the Medication

Never stop Prednisone abruptly. Your doctor will create a tapering schedule, gradually reducing your dose over several days or weeks. This prevents adrenal insufficiency, a potentially serious condition where your body doesn’t produce enough cortisol.

Typical tapering schedules involve reducing the daily dose by a small amount at regular intervals. For example, you might decrease your dosage by 5mg every few days or a week. Your doctor will personalize this plan based on your individual health and treatment response. Follow their instructions precisely.

During the tapering process, monitor for symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, nausea, or dizziness. These could indicate your body needs more time to adjust. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

After completing your tapering schedule, continue to follow your doctor’s advice regarding potential side effects and follow-up appointments. Regular checkups ensure your body adapts well and identify any issues promptly.

Remember, individual responses to Prednisone vary. Open communication with your doctor is key throughout the entire process, ensuring a safe and successful transition.