High dose Orapred almost worse than the disease

[10yearveteran]

I haven't taken the time to introduce us yet. I am E and my 11 year old son G has Crohns. He was diagnosed when he was 8 MONTHS old. We've been through so much over the years, but I am still never prepared for a big flare up. He has Crohns related arthritis. Several weeks ago, his joints started hurting and I took him to his rheumatologist. Long story short, he's now on 80mg Orapred daily. He's had 3-4 good days but is miserable again. Joints hurt, gut hurts, face is swollen, mood is dark. I'm beginning to think the steroid is causing the second round of symptoms. Any thoughts?

He's also on Methotrexate and Remicade.

 

[Clash]

Welcome to the forum!! So sorry to hear that your son is suffering right now. My son is on prednisone, which I've read is in the same class the difference being prednisone is activated by the liver into prednisolone. I do have to say that it has caused joint pain, moon face and mood swings in my son. He has been on 40mg a day for 8 weeks. We are hoping that he will start tapering tomorrow and these effects will soon pass.
I am really new to the forum, I'm sure someone will come by and offer more experienced opinions. I hope you find the right medication for your son and he is soon feeling better!!

 

[Sascot]

Sorry I don't have any advice on the side effects, it certainly sounds like the Orapred is causing more symptoms but with this disease, who knows! I hope he feels better soon!

 

[DustyKat]

Hi 10yearveteran and :welcome:

I am so sorry to hear about your boy, bless him...:hug: My goodness you must have been through the wringer over the years!

From what you are describing I wouldn't be surprised if it was the Orapred. The moods and moon face definitely but what may also be of concern is the gut pain...where is it located, what is it like and how severe?

Dusty. xxx