skip to main content

Corticosteroid withdrawal — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsCorticosteroid withdrawalGPhC CRA

A 55-year-old woman who has been taking prednisolone 30 mg daily for three weeks for a severe flare of rheumatoid arthritis asks whether she can stop the tablets now that she feels better. What is the most appropriate advice?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — The dose should be reduced gradually to avoid adrenal crisis, even after three weeks of treatment at this dose

The BNF advises that gradual withdrawal of systemic corticosteroids should be considered if the patient has received more than 40 mg prednisolone daily for more than one week, or has received treatment for three weeks or more, as abrupt withdrawal may cause adrenal crisis. At 30 mg daily for three weeks, gradual dose reduction is recommended to allow the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to recover.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS Corticosteroids