I stated a new cycle, Dec 13, after a remission of 4 yrs. I stated the D3 half ass, only D3 and the vit K the Same day. I didn’t start the rest of the supplements until Jan 10. I had my D3 level done Jan 16 and it was 45. This cycle is lasting 2 weeks longer than usual and I’m
Hoping that it’s because I was taking all of the supplements. I’m currently taking 60,000 D3, 2000 omega 3, 1000mcg k2(mk 4) 200 mcg (mk7) which is 2 capsules of my vit K, the Kirkland mature multi, 400 mag glycinate, 50 mg b complex, and 2000mg turmeric. I’m not seeing results, assuming because my levels were only 45 and not the 80 that is what episodics need. I’m also on 120 mg verap, extended release which I read in here is not enough. I also tried EmgAlity on Dec 30 and I’m due tomorrow for dose 2. Not sure I’ve seen a difference, esp since historically, my cycle is done by now. This cycle, I’ve been on Prednisone the entire time. The highest has been 60 mg and lowest was about 40. I tried to wean this past week
Since it should’ve been my last week of the cycle but I couldn’t. Yesterday I tried 50mg and 1 HA so today I’m
Back up to 60, hoping to go down again. I know the risks of prednisone but I just can’t deal
With the pain and have to work. I found a supposed cluster HA specialist and have an appt in 4 days. I’m
Currently using oxygen and 2mg imitrx injections thanks to getting the vials, to abort.  Any help appreciated.

Hi,

Episodic clusters for 20 years.  Always used high levels (3600 to 4200) of gabapentin to slowly abort cycle.  Recent cycle has been chronic for 1.5 years   Neurologist wanted to try Aimovig - no results in three months.  Then we tried Emgality - no results in three months.  Then Tegretol  - no results in three months and super dizzy.  Back to gabapentin and also was desperate and tried the D3 regimen.  6 weeks and the headaches stopped.  Ramping down on the gabapentin, and staying on the D3. 

Have also used Prednisone, up to 80 mg for as short term to end cycle.  Unfortunately prednisone can inhibit blood supply to the hips.  Had to have two full hip replacements at 50 due to that. 

Good Luck - get rid of the prednisone if you can.

Hey Rob,

Thanks for the feedback. Have you had recent labs or your serum 25(OH)D3, calcium and PTH?  Knowing the 25(OH)D3 serum concentration that keeps you CH pain free is good info to have handy.

Take care,
V/R, Batch