The less prednisone the better. There is likely no totally safe dose. There has been increased recognition on the long term side effects of prednisone based on clinical studies. Osteoporosis, increased risk of heart disease, increased risk of infections, weight gain are all assocaited with low dose prednisone use. Medications such as methotrexate, Arava, the anti-TNF drugs (Enbrel, Humira, Remicade) are all used to try to reduce prednisone.
About Alan Matsumoto, M.D.
Part-time Faculty, Division of Rheumatology
Johns Hopkins University