Prednisone

I was diagnosed with Crohns Disease in 2002. I have been on prednisone daily (20mg) for over 10 years and I've been hearing that I should not be on this medicene that long. I was taking the Humira injections a few years back but Leukemia got me and I had to stop the injections. Are there any other alternatives? I am also taken 1000mg of Pentasa daily for the past 10 years. My doctor doesn't seem to think anything is wrong with taking these meds for so long. My other doctors (cancer and primary care doctors) think otherwise.

 

Tim,

You are correct about the bones. May of 2011 I fell and broke my arm and foot. I had surgery with pins and plates placed. May of 2012 I fell again and broke my elbow on my same arm and had surgery with pins and plate. Since I've been on prednisone, I've broken several bones and fractured my ribs more than once. I think I am going to seek out another doctor. Thanks for your reply.

Hi Scifigal,

As you mentioned, I do have osteropenia. I've had one infusion of remicade in 2003. I was on Humira for 1 year. I've suffered with migraines for years even before the Crohns was diagnosed. My eyesight has worsened in the past 5 years. I take Ambien to sleep. I've gained at least 30lbs. since on the prednisone. Two episodes of blood clots in my lungs after the surgery for my broken arm,foot and elbow. Almost died but pulled through. Then being diagnosed with Leukemia and having Chemo has taken a toll on me so I am also on Cymbalta and seeing a shrink. I am so lucky to be alive and thinking seriously on changing doctors now. Through the Grace of God I know he will guide me and he has by me being a member of this website and reading comments of my situation. I am 59years old sure don't want to be bed ridden before I retire. I will keep all posted on my new adventure with a new doctor. Thanks so much for your reply.