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Published on: 11/6/2025
Why do I have to taper steroids slowly?
Steroids need to be tapered slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms and to allow your body to adjust and start making its own steroids again. See below to understand more.
Wondering why tapering steroids is necessary?
Explanation
When you take steroids for a while, your body gets used to them, and it might stop making its own natural steroids. If you stop steroids suddenly, your body can’t make enough steroids quickly, which can make you feel sick. This is why doctors suggest slowly reducing, or tapering, the dose of steroids.
Why Tapering is Important:
- Avoid Withdrawal Symptoms: If you stop steroids suddenly, you might feel tired, weak, or dizzy because your body is not ready yet.
- Help Your Body Adjust: Tapering gives your body time to start making its own steroids again, so you can feel better naturally.
Steps in Tapering:
- Your doctor will slowly lower your dose over time.
- This is done by taking smaller and smaller amounts until you can stop safely.
By tapering, you help your body get back to normal in a safe way. Remember, always follow your doctor's advice on how to taper your medicine.
(References)
- Priya G, Laway BA, Ayyagari M, Gupta M, Bhat GHK, & Dutta D. (2024). The Glucocorticoid Taper: A Primer for the Clinicians. Indian journal of endocrinology and metabolism, 39371659.
- Suehs CM, Menzies-Gow A, Price D, Bleecker ER, Canonica GW, Gurnell M, et al. (2021). Expert Consensus on the Tapering of Oral Corticosteroids .... American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine, 33112646.
- Komminoth M, Donath MY, Hepprich M, Schuetz P, Blum CA, Mueller B, et al. (2023). TOASST" (Taper Or Abrupt Steroid STop) multicenter trial. PloS one, 37018188.
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