I couldn't tell for sure. I had to go with what my endocrinologist said -- my cortisol level was "adequate." However, my endocrinologist wouldn't say my cortisol level would be adequate every day after I stopped prednisone. I was told to restart prednisone for "any reason" if I felt the need. There was a need and I had to go back on 60 mg of prednisone. My first attempt to stop prednisone didn't go so well but a lot was learned. I learned to expect the unexpected!

My cortisol level isn't checked anymore. I'm told that cortisol levels are variable depending on the time of day and what happens during the day. There is no "normal cortisol level" for every situation. There was no guarantee my adrenal function would be adequate for every situation. It was only adequate on the day and at the time it was tested.

My overwhelming fatigue is not a problem anymore. I feel much better being off prednisone.

Prednisone replaces the cortisol our adrenals produce. Since I'm not on prednisone anymore --I have to assume my adrenals are working. A low cortisol level caused by adrenal suppression because of prednisone use won't improve until prednisone is reduced. Adrenal function improves gradually with time so don't expect to feel better as soon as prednisone is stopped.

Any lingering pain is totally gone and feel you totally alive, it's a wonderful thing