From the Research
For acute flare-ups of psoriatic arthritis, prednisone is typically prescribed at a dose of 5-10 mg daily for a short duration of 1-2 weeks, followed by a gradual taper over another 1-2 weeks to minimize withdrawal effects, as supported by the most recent study 1. The specific dosage depends on the severity of symptoms, with higher doses (up to 20 mg) used for more severe flares and lower doses (5 mg) for milder cases. Some key points to consider when prescribing prednisone for psoriatic arthritis include:
- The total treatment duration should generally not exceed 4 weeks to avoid serious side effects associated with long-term corticosteroid use 2.
- When taking prednisone, it should be administered in the morning with food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation and minimize disruption to the body's natural cortisol rhythm.
- Patients should be monitored for potential side effects including elevated blood glucose, increased blood pressure, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
- It's essential to note that while prednisone provides rapid symptom relief, it's not recommended as a long-term treatment for psoriatic arthritis due to potential adverse effects including osteoporosis, weight gain, increased infection risk, and potential worsening of psoriatic skin lesions upon withdrawal, as highlighted in a study on the use of systemic glucocorticoids in patients with psoriatic arthritis 1.
- Corticosteroids work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, providing quick relief from joint pain, swelling, and stiffness during flares.
- A study on the use of systemic corticosteroids in patients with psoriatic arthritis found that most rheumatologists prescribed prednisone at a dose of 5-10 mg/day for less than 3 months, and often in combination with DMARDs or biologic therapy 1.
- Another study highlighted the importance of cautious use of systemic corticosteroids in patients with psoriasis, as they can cause flare-ups and should be used with care 3.