prednisone helps

Hi Alex,

My CIDP has been treated with only prednisone for 7 years. My only side effect is a permanent 20 lb weight gain. (I also take Lyrica for pain.)

Within weeks of starting the prednisone my foot drop was corrected, my coordination and stength increased and my pain diminished. My neurologist has me taking as low a dose as possible; unfortunately every time I catch a cold I have to return to a high dose and start the decreasing dosage schedule all over again.

You do need to be aware of the possible side effects, while realizing that not everyone gets all or even any of them. You will need regular checkups of your eyes and bones. Plus you will need to carefully watch your diet (avoiding the “whites” as much as possible – salt, sugar, fat, bread).

I am very lucky that prednisone has helped so long. And it is good to know that I can try other treatments when the steroids no longer work.

Good luck,
Flossie