I am 6 years post kidney transplant and have been off of the 5mg of prednisone for five years. I explained to my doctor I did not want to be on a steroid long-term. He said the 5 mg is such a low-dose, there would be no side effects. I said I would like to try a year without the steroid, and he allowed me to go off of them. I have had no adverse effect off prednisone. I just had my blood work done and my kidney is very happy and always has been. I understand that immunosuppressive drugs are the trade for life with a functioning organ. I also understand that each body is different and therefore responds to medicines differently. I make it a priority to have a dr who listens to my concerns and allows me to adjust accordingly, when possible. It is a balancing act, and all members of the team need to be working together.