Safe Dosage Of Prednisolone

Was diagnosed with ITP in August 2011. Went on Prednisolone after failing Dexa. In mid December while tapering down to 10mg a day, platelet count went down to 74. Haematologist put me back on 20mg Pred but platelet continued to go down to 53 the following week. He then started me on Revolade and Danazol while maintaining 20mg a day Pred. The last few weeks counts have been above 200 with last week at 339. Have been cutting down Revolade and was taking only 2 this week. Doctor is looking at cutting down on Pred this week but I am a little reluctant after what happened the last time we tapered down. Although I've been having muscle aches and shaky hands, not to mention weight gain and moon face(I believe the effects of Pred), I am afraid of cutting down the pred at this rate. I've been on 20mg since mid December 2011. I would appreciate it if anyone can advise me if it is safe to go on 20mg Pred for this long as my doctor feels that taking such a dosage for too long is harmful.What is the normal rate of tapering and how long is it safe to stay on 20mg Pred? Counts this morning was at 287 and would be seeing doctor in about 2 hours. Thank you for any feedback and advise.

Angel:

There isn't a safe dose of Prednisone. It can cause long-term damage over time.

20 mg's isn't a very high dose, but you would want to get that down. Your counts are great....it's time to try a taper. You'd want to go slow, especially when you get below 10 mg's.

Thanks so much for the reply, Sandi. Doctor stopped the Revolade yesterday and cut the Pred to 20/15 mg alternate days. Hopefully situation will stabalise with Danazol and low dose Pred. This forum has been a great help.

Is your doctor uncomfortable with platelet counts in the 50s? Most of us (and our docs) would be happy if we could maintain that level of platelets.

Angel - that is a great taper. It's slow and should give you some security. Gotta let it go, girl!