After initiation of glucocorticoid therapy in patients with giant cell arteritis, gradual tapering of hormone dosage can be started after 4-6 weeks of remission to the minimum maintenance dose. However, hormones are prone to relapse after tapering, especially after discontinuation, so small doses of hormones are required to continue maintenance therapy for 1 to 2 years. It is important to reduce the dose under the guidance of an experienced specialist and not to discontinue it on your own.
If a relapse occurs during the tapering process, the doctor will give increased hormones or add immunosuppressive drugs such as methotrexate and azathioprine, depending on the relapse.