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Steroid card and adrenal suppression — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsSteroid card and adrenal suppressionGPhC CRA

A 55-year-old man has taken prednisolone 10mg daily for polymyalgia rheumatica for four months. He asks whether he can stop it because his pain is better. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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Correct answer: C — Seek prescriber advice for gradual reduction and carry steroid safety information

Longer-term systemic corticosteroids can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Stopping abruptly after months of treatment can cause adrenal insufficiency and disease flare. The patient should follow a prescriber-led taper and carry appropriate steroid safety information. NSAIDs may increase gastrointestinal risk and are not a simple replacement.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS