Can they just stop the steroids once they feel well?
No. Steroids mustn't be stopped suddenly or changed without the doctor: it can make someone very unwell and bring the symptoms back.
This applies even when the symptoms have completely gone. Signs that the body isn't coping after stopping include vomiting, muscle weakness, dizziness, and feeling faint or very tired: get medical advice straight away. Set up repeat prescriptions so tablets never run out.
Sources
- NHS: Polymyalgia rheumatica, treatment
- NHS medicines: Prednisolone
- Arthritis UK (formerly Versus Arthritis): Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)
Reviewed 2026-11-09 · next review 2027-11-09