My wife (50) is on steroids (Medrol-4mg) since nearly 10 odd years, for her arthritis. She cannot stop the steroids and no pain killer seems to work for her. She has gained weight (85 kg) for her height 5.4 inches. Request guidance on how she may discontinue the steroids?

In established cases of rheumatoid arthritis dmrd (disease modifying drugs) e. G. Methotraxate, hcqs, lefunomide, saaz etc. Have to be used. They all are toxic drugs & can cause bone marrow depression along with other side effects. They should be taken under medical supervision. Some times steroids may have to used. Kindly adjust the dose to minimum required, to control your symptoms. Have your tests done periodically to rule out any side effects. Kindly show me x rays of the affected part. Rule out diabetes & vit. D deficiency or any other metabolic disorder. 

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