Prednisone nearly a year now

[Mike88]

I have been on fluctuating doses of prednisone since I was diagnosed nearly a year ago, nothing else seems to work well enough for me to get off of it. Is it even remotely normal to have to take steroids this long? I'm starting to get really depressed about it.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

It is becoming increasingly rare for doctors to keep people on steroids for prolonged periods of time due to the long list of side effects and long term damage it can cause to your bones etc.

That said, many of us have been on low dose prednisone for several months. I know my current doctor doesn't believe in using it unless its absolutely essential. What dose of pred are you on? Have you tried the biologics?

 

[Mike88]

I tried humira and it did not work, so now I have switched to remicade and just had my 2nd infusion last week and so far have felt no change. Not sure how long it takes before seeing results for it though. Really hope it works, I don't want to be one steroids anymore.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

It can take several weeks before you see changes. Hopefully remicade will work and you can gradually taper off the prednisone.

 

[guest78]

Hi, I have struggled getting off steroids too. I have been on it for 5months now, which is the longest i have ever been on it. as of yesterday i am no longer on it. so fingers crossed i can stay off the stuff. i hate it too!
i am on humira, i did have remicade which worked for a while but did take a few weeks to kick in.
good luck!!!
xxxx

 

[Mike88]

Thanks for the reply's guys. Maybe it just has not been enough time yet for the Remicade to work out, Ill let yall know if its got any better in a few weeks. Good luck staying of that dastardly prednisone!!

 

[rollinstone]

Iv been on pred 7 months now, tapering for a while, I'm on 10mg, been on Aza for 2 months now, I find the Aza to work much better than the pred, has your GI talked about adding any other meds to your remicade? I.e Aza or MTX?

 

[mwkwmn]

I had to take steroids longterm while trying other drugs but I always seemed to end up on steroids I UNOs it can be rough at times but your not alone. This site alone offers valuable information and support. I would recommend learning everything you can about steroid treatment and other medications that are available. Good luck to you and keep your head up.