I have had experience with prednisone. I was hospitalised back in 1996 at a centre for Bone and Joint diseases for a week where they gave me a "pulse" of prednisone 1000mg (1 gram). This I have learnt since starting to investigate AS is extremely high for any disease. My ESR was constanting well over 100 and I would have had them remove my arm at that stage if I though it would have helped.

Anyhow, the pulse was only good for a few days and they started me on daily pred. for next 2 years - first at 25mg/day but over time I found that I could get away with between 5 - 10mg. Pred. does have some side effects of increased chance of osteoporosis (which I also have but which I think may also be a side effect of AS as the osteo is only in my spine and hips where the inflmmation is).

Anyway, would I take it again. I think its a great drug short term for flares - say 2- 3 weeks but its a personal choice. Some AS'ers call it a "prednisone holiday/vacation". Talk to your pharmacist about the drug and make an informed decision. Its not a casual choice with pred. but in emergencies I have found it helpful.

Don't think you can - KNOW YOU CAN

[red]Don't think you can KNOW YOU CAN[/red]