MSNik

Stacy, sorry you are feeling bad enough to consider steroids as an option. I will tell you that I have been given refills on my steroids pack, and I have filled it once or twice, but only after calling my doctor to be sure its the right thing to do.
Another thing you should be aware of, is the dose pack is really a very low dose of steroids...Im figuring you are taking anywhere between 5-50 mgs a day, with a taper down? Can you confirm that? When you do the IV, its 1000 mgs a day....so much higher, with so many more side effects. However, all steroids do have side effects, and they shouldnt be abused.
I really would call the doctors office, leave an urgent message and when you get ahold of the doc or even his nurse, explain your symtoms in detail- be able to discuss how long they have been happening and if they are changing. Make an informed decision based on their thoughts....if you cant be checked out, then its the next best thing. Do you have a local GP whom is familiar with your situation? Even he/she would be better then just self medicating- at least they can monitor you while you are on them. You need to be concerned about sugars elevating for one thing...usually they will do a simple glucose test on you when you are finished the round of steroids, if nothing else...but again, you are talking Prendisone pack...its not very high to begin with..
PLease try first to talk to your Neuro....you want to save Steroids for when it is absoutely necessary, and NOT abuse the idea of using them...like Bearygood said, you really do KNOW when things just are that bad! Continuous steroid use renders them less effective, and thus you need more and more of them to get the same effect....dont use them, unless you really think its time.
Good luck, and feel better soon.
Nikki

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RRMS- dx 05
Rebif 2005-2011
LDN Sept. 2011
"Every New Beginning Comes From Some Other Beginning's End"