Hi there. I'm sorry you are struggling. The typical starting dose is 15-20 mgs. I started with 15 mgs. and two years later I'm still on 9.5. You should only taper if you are feeling reasonably well. And then never more than 10%. Slow and easy does it. According to the Mayo study the average length of PMR is 5.9 years. Some people are in remission in two years. The disease dictates the tapering schedule. Doctors can recommend a tapering schedule though I've found the best advice from PMR forums. Hopefully you'll find the dose where you feel good. If you reduce too fast, the inflammation will get ahead of you and you'll experience too much pain. You can't force a reduction. You have to listen to your body. You need a rheumatologist who will work with you and give you the flexibility you need to find your best path. Best to you. Kathy