PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsMedium
A patient calls the pharmacy asking for advice on their new prescription for 'prednisone 20 mg, take 1 tablet daily for 5 days, then taper down'. They ask if they should stop taking it if they feel better after 2 days. What information should the technician provide?
- AThey should increase the dose if symptoms worsen.
- BThey can stop the medication if symptoms resolve completely.
- CThey should switch to an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory.
- DThey should continue the medication as prescribed, following the tapering schedule.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. They should continue the medication as prescribed, following the tapering schedule.
Corticosteroids like prednisone must be tapered down gradually, especially after even short courses, to prevent adrenal insufficiency. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. The technician should reinforce the importance of adhering to the prescribed tapering schedule.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Increasing the dose without consulting a prescriber is inappropriate and potentially harmful.
- B. Abruptly stopping prednisone can cause adrenal insufficiency and withdrawal symptoms.
- C. Switching medications without medical guidance is unsafe and outside the technician's scope.
Corticosteroid Tapering
Systemic corticosteroids, such as prednisone, must be gradually tapered down, not abruptly discontinued, to allow the body's adrenal glands to resume natural steroid production and prevent adrenal insufficiency.
- Prevents adrenal crisis (fatigue, weakness, nausea, low blood pressure).
- Even short courses (e.g., 5-7 days) may require tapering.
- Patient education on adherence is critical.
Memory trick: Follow the plan, especially when it's a 'taper' like a gentle slope.