When providers anticipate stopping systemic glucocorticoid therapy, the approach to discontinuation should be guided by the patient's risk of developing glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency (AI) as well as a flare of the underlying disease. Prednisone should be tapered slowly over a period of days, weeks, or months to help prevent prednisone withdrawal symptoms due to a lack of the natural steroid cortisol. Compare the five common prednisone taper protocols side-by-side — 5-day burst, 6-day dose pack, 12-day, 21-day, and 28-day — with day-by-day schedules and a printable PDF. The most common 5-day prednisone dosage follows a tapering schedule, starting with a higher dose (like 40-60mg) on the first day and gradually decreasing over the five days to minimize side effects while maximizing benefits. Prednisone withdrawal can cause fatigue and low blood pressure. Find out how to taper safely and prevent adrenal complications. In this article, I explain how to taper prednisone to prevent side effects and withdrawal, who needs to taper prednisone and why tapering prednisone is necessary. The tapering schedule for prednisone depends critically on the starting dose and duration of therapy: for high doses ( 30 mg/day), taper to 10 mg/day over 4-8 weeks then reduce by 1 mg every 4 weeks; for medium doses (10-30 mg/day), reduce by 5 mg weekly to 10 mg/day then by 2.5 mg weekly to 5 mg/day; and for low doses ( 10 mg/day), taper by 1. If you’ve only taken prednisone for 3 weeks or less, you might not have to taper. The doctor will let you know. If you’ve been on steroids for more than a year, it may take 2 months to taper. To prevent withdrawal after prolonged use, prednisone should be gradually reduced according to a schedule created by your healthcare provider. Do not stop or taper prednisone without consulting your healthcare provider. NEVER stop or change steroid doses without medical supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can cause life-threatening adrenal crisis. This calculator is for educational reference only—always follow your doctor's prescribed taper schedule.