How can I manage the pain and swelling in my foot and right knee (which has slightly damaged joint cartilage) when I try to lower my 8mg Medrol dose, considering I am already taking DMARDs (15mg of Mtx weekly, 500mg of Sulfasalazine daily, and 200mg of HCQS daily) and my rheumatoid factor (RF) test result is 98? | Apollo Pharmacy

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How can I manage the pain and swelling in my foot and right knee (which has slightly damaged joint cartilage) when I try to lower my 8mg Medrol dose, considering I am already taking DMARDs (15mg of Mtx weekly, 500mg of Sulfasalazine daily, and 200mg of HCQS daily) and my rheumatoid factor (RF) test result is 98?

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How can I manage the pain and swelling in my foot and right knee (which has slightly damaged joint cartilage) when I try to lower my 8mg Medrol dose, considering I am already taking DMARDs (15mg of Mtx weekly, 500mg of Sulfasalazine daily, and 200mg of HCQS daily) and my rheumatoid factor (RF) test result is 98?

Asked by Male, 58 · 13 hours ago

Veda Maddala

M Pharmacy

13 hours ago

I understand how challenging it is to taper methylprednisolone (Medrol) while managing joint pain, especially with active rheumatoid arthritis. It is common to experience flares when lowering your steroid dose. Since you are already on a strong combination of disease-modifying drugs (methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and hydroxychloroquine), please do not adjust your doses on your own. Your rheumatologist can safely slow down your tapering schedule or adjust your other medications. In the meantime, applying cold packs, elevating your leg, and avoiding heavy strain can help soothe your knee and foot. Please contact your doctor to tailor a comfortable plan for you.

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How can I manage the pain and swelling in my foot and right knee (which has slightly damaged joint cartilage) when I try to lower my 8mg Medrol dose, considering I am already taking DMARDs (15mg of Mtx weekly, 500mg of Sulfasalazine daily, and 200mg of HCQS daily) and my rheumatoid factor (RF) test result is 98?

Answered 13 hours ago

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