Your doctor will create a specific tapering schedule, usually gradually reducing your dose over weeks or months. Never adjust your dosage without consulting your physician. Common tapering schedules involve decreasing the daily dose by a small amount (e. g., 5mg) at regular intervals. Closely monitor your symptoms during this process. Report any increase in sciatica pain or other adverse effects immediately to your doctor. They may need to adjust the tapering schedule accordingly.
Managing Side Effects
Prednisone can cause several side effects, including weight gain, increased appetite, mood changes, insomnia, and increased blood sugar. Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine to mitigate these. Discuss potential side effects with your physician; they can offer strategies for management. For example, monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is crucial if you have diabetes or risk factors. Good hydration can also help manage some side effects.
Monitoring Progress
Regular check-ups with your doctor are vital during and after Prednisone treatment. Blood tests might be necessary to monitor your blood sugar, potassium, and other relevant values. Openly communicate any concerns or changes in your health status with your healthcare provider. This ensures they can tailor your treatment plan effectively.
