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Steroid withdrawal — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyEndocrine TherapeuticsSteroid withdrawalGPhC CRA

A 62-year-old man has taken prednisolone 20 mg daily for polymyalgia rheumatica for six weeks. He says the pain is better and asks whether he can stop the tablets today. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: B — Do not stop suddenly; follow a prescriber-led tapering plan

After several weeks of systemic corticosteroid therapy, abrupt stopping can precipitate adrenal insufficiency and disease flare. Dose reduction should follow a clinical plan from the prescriber. The patient should also understand steroid card requirements and infection precautions where relevant.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS