I was taking prednisone for about a year for asthma, took about a month to wean, then in two weeks had symptoms of adrenal suppression: achiness, dizziness, especially after spinning class in which I sweat heavily. From getting up in the morning I yawn uncontrollably, feel lethargic, difficulty concentrating. Called my internist who said go back to 10mg and wean again, dropping 1mg. Per week, now in my 4th week at 7mg per day, taking entire dose at breakfast but by middle afternoon start feeling depleted again as I have felt each day of this attempt. Should I break the dose in half and take twice a day, or what? Last night woke at three in the morning and felt like my body was on the edge of shock, went and took 2mg's to settle things down. Will take longer than I thought, or what?
Thanks,
Gordon.

You can try taking half a dose twice a day. But it is imperative that you wean off as soon as possible. Corticosteriods such as Prednisone can leave permanent damage.

You don't mention what you were taking it for. Would you mind? I am curious as most corticosteroids are only prescribed for a 7 day course.

You probably should not change anything without discussing this with a physician, however your pharmacist could probably advise if the dose could be broken into two doses a day without contacting your physician. When I was on it, the physician had me reduce the dose but break it into 3x a day at first, then twice a day, and eventually down to once a day. Why not speak to a pharmacist, and if he has concerns about advising you, then drop by a clinic or emegency room for advice.

Good luck!

Didi

Quote:

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Originally Posted by J_9

You don't mention what you were taking it for. Would you mind? I am curious as most corticosteroids are only prescribed for a 7 day course.

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It was for asthma, J_9. With severe asthma you can be on it for longer periods. That old 'risk outweighs... " thing. :)

Hugs, Didi

Sorry, I missed that. Tired I guess.

But, if the OP is in the US, please do not go to the ER for advice on your meds. The ER is overworked as it is and they cannot take time away from emergent patients to answer questions about medication. Please call your pharmacy in the morning instead.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by J_9

Sorry, I missed that. Tired I guess.

But, if the OP is in the US, please do not go to the ER for advice on your meds. The ER is overworked as it is and they cannot take time away from emergent patients to answer questions about medication. Please call your pharmacy in the morning instead.

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Oh, gosh, J_9, don't apologize! :) It's so easy to miss a word or two on here. I do it all the time! Sorry that you are so tired. I don't know how you do it sometimes, what with the kids and all.

Our ER's are crazy here in Ontario, as well, but there is such a shortage of doctors up here when you call the doctor's office they often advise you to go to the ER. It can take 3 to 6 weeks just to see the Nurse Practitioner in the doctor's office where I live! I have no idea how long to see a physician!

By the way, J_9, when I was typing up my response there wasn't one already. I took a call on my cell, finished my response, and when I sent it I saw that you had already responded. It might have looked like I was trying to give advice over yours, and I wasn't! :) We all know that you know your stuff!

Hugs, Didi