it can shut down after about 25-35mcg
Now as to your questions - yes I am for taking high dose almost right off - I always start that way myself - but if you havent done it before, that is why I say a 5% ramp up is ok.
As to the precipitous drop to 50mcg before tapering - I am not really for - the problem is that your body seems to adjust a tad more slowly - I prefer the slow comedown to enable may body to process the new levels - and remember, that extra maount that you did wont help any if you dont get your thyroid going again as fast as possible after supplementation has run out.
I also dont see any problem with longer cycles for those who have serious weight problems - many people take it medically for years - that does not mean doses of 150mcg ED, however!!