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Oral corticosteroid tapering — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsOral corticosteroid taperingGPhC CRA

A 46-year-old man with Crohn's disease brings prednisolone 40mg daily for 14 days then reducing by 5mg weekly. He says he feels better after two days and wants to stop because steroids make him hungry. He has taken several courses this year. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: EContinue the taper pending prescriber review

A tapering course should be followed as prescribed, particularly after repeated steroid exposure. Stopping early risks relapse and may increase adrenal suppression concerns depending on cumulative exposure. The pharmacist should reinforce morning dosing, adverse effect counselling and review if symptoms worsen.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training/registration-assessment