I've been on prednisone for 7 months. My doctor has tried twice to step me down with symptoms immediately worsening. With that said, I started out at 60mg and then was on 20mg for about 3 months and have been on 10mg for the last 3 months. A couple weeks ago, we tried to step me down to 5mg, but fever returned and all symptoms worsened considerably. So, I'm on 10mg for at least another month - I start Avara today, along with staying on the Plaquenil. I have to give the Avara a chance to work in my body then in a month, my doctor wants me to step down to 5mg of prednisone, the goal being to have me off of it within six weeks. I'm going to tell you, prednisone feels like an immediate fix and it feels good, though not perfect. The thing is, I've gained 40lbs with it and have developed other issues such as severe heartburn and slight problems with bladder control. The answer is to use it while your doctor finds the right med or combo of meds that will work.

PS - I went through reclast, for two and now am on prolea.

@Wendy5732
I have been on low dose steroids for about 8 years, in addition to the biologics, the Mtx, plaquenil and celebrex. I have had several pathological fractures (ribs and foot) but the flares when I stop them are unmanageable. Even still, I will need reconstructive surgery on my left hand. 3 joints need total replacement ant the thumb needs major repair. The Rd has eaten away the tendons that hold the joints in place. I go for occupational therapy several times a week to keep hands from stiffening. I'm currently on 4mg me droll 2x daily. When I flare badly I go on a dose pack.

Watch out for diabetes, and osteoporose!!
Steroïden can do Good on the short term,but on the long ????

I am down to 2 and a half mg a day.Have discontined Arava and Xeljanz for upcoming back surgery.Hope I don't have a flare and end up having to take higher dose of prednisone.Your doc will advise dosage based on your flares.