ORAL Steroids are not safe. Especially if you have diabetes, eye issues, gut issues, thyroid, liver problems. They also cause Osteo Porosis. Doctors don't always tell us everything, bc they just don't have time for a lot of questions and answers that would cause more questions/answers.

When we sit in an exam room and wait, aching, then we understand why he has to keep moving.

Oral steroids work for my bas allergic dermatitis. I once took a low dose month of them and it didn't phase my RA at the time.

However, injected into my joints or as an epidural injection, instant relief. I can only have up to 3 steroidal treatments a year, if urgently needed, bc they will cause worse problems. Steroids should be a serious last resort.

So, if doc doesn't want those steroids going through your digestive system, he is watching out for your health. Steroids can also trigger 2ndary infections and avascular necrosis and other things we don't want.

Trust your specialist to know your vulnerabilities and how to treat you best.

You might also straight-out ask the doctor at your next appointment about anything that concerned you. Write the questions, concerning RA therapy, beforehand to be organized, save time.

Not a fan of corticosteroids but I absolutely needed them when I was trying to get on the right RA meds. Prednisone was the only thing that gave me the ability to use my hands and feet. It was a really rough patch. Desperate times call for desperate measures. I weaned off of it as soon as I possibly could. RA isn't easy. Hugs to everyone who is struggling. It's been nearly 3 years since I was diagnosed and I still don't have a proper grasp on the issue. 🤷‍♀️

I became a diabetic with prednisone only after taking it for low blood platelets for 4 weeks. I cannot take cortisoids. Dangerous med if taken too much for too long.

Mine will only give the short dose. But, he will prescribe it when needed. I don't understand why yours will not prescribe it. Maybe you have some other health conditions that it would affect? Or, do you have another doctor who prescribes it for other conditions? One is only supposed to take a specific amount yearly. Though some people need it on a daily basis. Good luck!
Pat

Mine gives me enough to take 2 a day. I only take for a few days if I have a flare