What type of prescription is anticipated regarding Sam's prednisone dosage?

In the context of managing a patient's therapy with prednisone, tapering the dosage is essential when the patient has been on a long-term course of this corticosteroid. Prednisone can cause suppression of the adrenal glands, and a rapid cessation of the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potentially severe complications, including adrenal crisis.

Therefore, a gradual tapering of the dosage allows the body to gradually adjust and resume normal adrenal function. This approach minimizes risks and helps ensure that the patient remains stable while gradually reducing dependence on the medication. The tapering process is also guided by the duration of therapy and the dosage before tapering begins, making it a critical component of safe prescription practices related to corticosteroid therapies.

In contrast, other options such as increasing the dosage, switching medication, or continuing at the current dosage do not appropriately address the need to safely discontinue prednisone after prolonged use. Each of those alternatives could lead to adverse effects associated with the abrupt withdrawal of glucocorticoids or ineffective management of the underlying condition.