← Return to GCA (Giant Cell Arteritis) and PMR (polymyalgia rheumatica)

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@valerie6062

Am tapering from 50mg about 4 months ago and am now on 12.5 mg. After reading these comments I am feeling quite nervous about tapering any further. I am taking methotrexate but still have 3 doses to go before the 6 week dose when I am told its effect will kick in. This is my 2nd attempt at tapering into single digits. I was on 7 mg and suddenly had a double vision episode and my rheumatologist swooped me back to 50mg. I don't want this to happen again obviously.It is such a roller coaster ride .

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Replies to "Am tapering from 50mg about 4 months ago and am now on 12.5 mg. After reading..."

I was diagnosed in August of 2019 with GCA. By October of that year, I was on 80mg of methylprednisolone and Actemra weekly injections. I certainly understand your concern and apprehension. Even though I had gotten to 40 twice and down to 15 once in 2022, I had to go back up to 40 in a short time. I honestly can't remember when/why I was switched from methylprednisolone to prednisone---but I just got down to single digits for the first time this year.

Vision is so precious, I'm a big believer in slow....slow tapers. My rheumatologist would have me taper .5mg every three to four weeks. So, you have moved along fairly quickly. Please be patient and know that I and others are sitting beside you on that roller coaster ride. In my experience, slow is SO worth it. The support of groups like this kept me going mentally, just not being alone and feeling like I had more questions than answers.

Take your time and listen to your body. When you are fatigued, rest. It is life-changing for sure but there is light at the end of the tunnel. We have to accept that the disease is in charge, and we are trying to manage it as best we can. It will quiet down when it is ready. My best....💞