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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Fatigue And Itchy Body While Trying To Withdraw Prednisone?

I was on prednisone for 15 days along with Amoxicillin for an ear infection. I took 40mg of prednisone twice a day (80mg) for five days then down to 40mg for five days and finally 20mg for five days. I had some side effects each time I lowered the dosage, such as extreme fatigue and body aches. Since I have finished it, I developed and itch over my entire body that is unbearable. Wherever I scratch, my skin swells and red/purple marks appear and then a slight rash. This has been going on a couple of days since my last does about a week ago. I read it s a withdrawal side effect after being on prednisone at such a high dosage. Is this normal and how long will it last? Also, what will help besides Benadryl?
Fri, 29 Nov 2019
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

During a long Prednisone therapy, adrenal gland reduces / stops secretion. Sudden withdrawal of Prednisone creates deficiency of the adrenal hormone, this creates your symptoms. To avoid this Prednisone needs to be weaned off very gradually, so that the adrenal gland is gradually reactivated.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Vasudha Jayant Athavale, General & Family Physician
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What Causes Fatigue And Itchy Body While Trying To Withdraw Prednisone?

Hi, During a long Prednisone therapy, adrenal gland reduces / stops secretion. Sudden withdrawal of Prednisone creates deficiency of the adrenal hormone, this creates your symptoms. To avoid this Prednisone needs to be weaned off very gradually, so that the adrenal gland is gradually reactivated. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Vasudha Jayant Athavale, General & Family Physician