Connect
← Return to Methotrexate / Actemra
Discussion
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Feb 2 6:53pm | Replies (40)
Comment receiving replies
In the first week after PMR diagnosis, I have needed to increase prednisone from 10 to 15 and today to 30 mg. I have osteopenia and am taking alendronate (Fosamax), which has improved my bone density ( it used to be in the osteoporosis range). I am told by my new rheumatologist I have no alternative to prednisone until I am in remission, then can try methotrexate. Actemra is not an option for me because I already take inflixamab, another biologic, for Crohn’s. I would love to find one biologic that works on both diseases! I’m wondering about Humira. Does anyone have experience with Humira for PMR?
Replies to "In the first week after PMR diagnosis, I have needed to increase prednisone from 10 to..."
Connect
Humira is a TNF inhibitor which isn't likely to help PMR. My experience with Humira was when my ophthalmologist said Humira was "optimal treatment" for uveitis.
Prior to this, Actemra (tocilizumab) was used to treat PMR. I was able to successfully taper off prednisone for the first time in more than 12 years. Soon after I tapered off prednisone I had a flare of uveitis. My ophthalmologist stopped Actemra and started 60 mg of prednisone. Humira replaced Actemra to prevent uveitis from recurring.
While on Humira, I wasn't able to taper off prednisone again because PMR pain returned. I was on Humira and 15 mg of prednisone when my rheumatologist informed me that it would be impossible to adequately treat both PMR and uveitis. I was allowed to choose between Humira and Actemra because I could not take both. I chose Actemra.
My ophthalmologist was dismayed about my choice and said it was just a matter of time until uveitis flared again. Actemra isn't an ideal treatment for uveitis. However, a monthly Actemra infusion has worked well for me. Uveitis hasn't recurred and PMR is in remission. Best of all, I have been prednisone free for more than 2 years.
What works for me might not work for you. I have reactive arthritis, uveitis and PMR. All of these autoimmune disorders are now in remission on a monthly infusion of Actemra.