Your doctor will typically begin prednisone treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica with a relatively high dose, often 15-20 milligrams daily. This initial dose aims to quickly reduce inflammation and alleviate your symptoms.
After initial improvement, your doctor will gradually reduce your prednisone dosage. This tapering process is crucial to minimize potential side effects. The reduction is usually slow, perhaps by 1-2.5 milligrams every 1-2 weeks. Your physician will carefully monitor your progress and adjust the dosage according to your response. Some individuals may require a slower taper, while others might tolerate a slightly faster decrease.
Regular blood tests help track your progress and detect potential complications. These tests monitor your inflammatory markers and overall health. Your doctor uses this data to guide the tapering process and prevent relapses.
The goal is to reach the lowest effective dose that keeps your symptoms under control. This maintenance dose can vary greatly from person to person. Maintaining a consistent dosage and following your doctor’s instructions meticulously are vital during this phase.
Remember: Never adjust your prednisone dosage without consulting your doctor. Sudden changes can cause serious health issues.
Important Side Effects to Report: Increased blood sugar, weight gain, bone thinning, mood changes, and increased risk of infection are potential side effects. Report any unusual changes to your physician immediately.
