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@johnbishop

Hi @maija, Thanks for the reference. I was not familiar with the dead slow and nearly stop taper schedule as described on the site you referenced here: https://healthunlocked.com/pmrgcauk/posts/131189593/dead-slow-and-nearly-stop-reduction-plan. It's pretty close to how I was able to taper off of prednisone for my first occurrence of PMR. My rheumatologist helped me by suggesting I keep a daily log of my dosage and pain scale (0 to 10). The first time with PMR that took 3 years to taper off, I was going between 1 mg and 1/2 mg for the last six months until I was finally able to taper off. I mostly used a taper every week schedule towards the end. When I first started the prednisone I tried tapering every 3 to 4 days but was not too successful. I think the key is that we are all affected a little differently and the tapering can be subjective depending on how we feel and how much pain is acceptable. Biggest help for me was having a good supply of 1 mg tablets and a good pill splitter ☺

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Replies to "Hi @maija, Thanks for the reference. I was not familiar with the dead slow and nearly..."

Thanks for your reply. Very interesting how slowly you tapered off towards the end. From 60 mg (visual issue- neg GCI biopsy) for one
week, 40 for another week and 20 mg for 4 weeks: then the gradual taper. Twice I did return to a prior dosage for another 2 weeks. For
the most part I do well, and am usually feeling my best in the afternoon beginning at 3 to 4 PM. I have not experienced any of the "bad"
side effects of Prednisone except for the "chubby cheeks" which are becoming less chubby. I am 83 years old and have some difficulty
with balance while walking. Not a big issue on level walkways that are free of ice.
Thank you for the service you are performing: I am SO pleased that I found this site.

Maija