Bell’s palsy and Steroids

The standard treatment for the management of Bell’s palsy is a short course of oral steroids commenced within seventy-two hours following the onset of symptoms.

In a nutshell 

  • The majority of patients will receive a prescription for an oral steroid called Prednisolone.
  • The recommended dose most commonly prescribed is 60mgs once daily for five days.  On day 6 of you should start to reduce the dose by 10 mgs/day.  If you have been given these directions, it means that on day 6 of your treatment, you take 50mgs, day 7 you should take 40mgs and so on, finishing the course on day 10 when you only take 10mgs.
  • Taking steroids for a short period (between 7 – 14 days) comes with far fewer health risks or side effects compared to longer-term use.  However, side effects can still occur and should be reported to your GP.

Side effects

Side effects are short-lived and usually not serious but can include the following:

  • Headaches
  • Stomach irritation
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Mood changes, for example, irritability or low mood.
  • Fluid retention

These symptoms may occur during the course of treatment and sometimes for a few days after completing your treatment.

Take your medication safely

  • Before starting your prednisolone make sure the prescriber is fully aware of your medical history and any medication you are currently taking or have recently taken.
  • Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
  • Take your medication at the same time of day as directed by the subscriber.
  • Take medication with food or milk to prevent stomach irritation.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Avoid foods and liquids which may be irritants, for example, spicy food, coffee etc to avoid stomach irritation.
  • Finish your course of treatment as prescribed and follow the guidance on decreasing the dose of prednisolone carefully.

Withdrawal symptoms

As you start tapering your dose or when you finish your course of prednisolone a small minority of people may experience the following symptoms.

  • Body aches or joint pain
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Lightheadedness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea

These are usually short-lived and pass within a few days. If you are concerned or these symptoms persist beyond a few days, then contact your GP for advice.  Research has shown that overall the benefits of taking a short course of prednisolone for your Bell’s palsy far outweigh the risks.

If you are in any doubt about dosage and reducing the dose, as you come towards the end of your treatment, please contact your GP or talk to your pharmacist.

Read more

Bell’s palsy diagnosis and treatment

Bell’s palsy and steroids

Recurring Bell’s palsy