You might try 8.5 every day rather than alternating. This gives your body a constant level with the overall amount being the same as alternating. This approach worked for me and in talking with the PA this technique is something they use on an individual basis. You might discuss approach with doctor but do realize that the percent of decrees goes up as the dosage amount goes down. 1 mg decrease at 10mg to 9mg is 10% decrease whereas the same 1 mg decrees at 5mg to 4mg is 20% decrease. Your body has a certain dependency on the oral prednisone and you need to reteach your body to be independent. Not always a straight line.