I also hate steroids so I do not have any good stories to share. I have only used iv 'roids once - 5 days/no taper. In retrospect, if I have to use them again, I will be asked to be closely monitored. Blood sugar , etc. My heart rate was rather rapid for several weeks. I am also not sure if they helped. The only good thing steroids is that I lost 50 pounds in the few months following my infusions. Of course, I gained it all back over the next year. My neuro and I have agreed to no more steroids unless I experience optic neuritis or significant, rapid impairment. Take care!