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Treating PMR with Prednisone and Hydroxychloroquine
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Sep 5 5:10pm | Replies (86)Comment receiving replies
Sulfasalazine and other DMARDS. My rheumy recently switched me to my third DMARD. First, I was on methotrexate for two years which I self-injected and it seemed to help the tapering process to get off prednisone. Then I experienced negative liver lab tests which apparently isn’t that unusual. So, my rheumy then prescribed hydroxychloroquine to replace the methotrexate. I immediately felt better and had more energy for exercise but I also developed diarrhea which wouldn’t go away and I finally had to stop it. By this time, I was down to 1 mg of Prednisone and was feeling that the end was close. I started back in the gym and was feeling the best I had felt in over two years. Then, whammy, I suffered the first flare I have ever had. I increased my prednisone but apparently not enough because I then suffered two additional flares each worse than the previous ones. Now, my rheumy has prescribed Sulfasalazine and I am back on a slow taper from 7 mg of Prednisone. Two weeks in I am feeling good but am cautious about repeating my earlier failure of trying to go without any DMARD.
I think I never fully understood the function of DMARDs. First, they allow us to taper off of Prednisone far faster than without. Second, because a DMARD also reduces inflammation on its own, many of us will continue with a DMARD even after we have finished with Prednisone. So, rather than an afterthought or a secondary supplement we need to see a DIMARD as a co-equal to Prednisone.
I would like to hear from others about their experience with both Hydroxychloroquine and Sulfasalazine. Tell me about any side-effects and whether you feel better after taking them.
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I quit hydroxchloroquine was not effective for me. Still on prednisone 11 mg Qd. Now trying gabapentin 300 mg Qd some improvement muscle aches pains in middle of night
What does dmard stand for? Thanks Ellen
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I'm on Hydroxychloroquine and still tapering down on the Prednisone. This past week I went down from 7.5 mg to 5 mg and had severe pain for several days; it was excruciating. I was in so much pain I took 2 Advil Gels, not knowing that I wasn't suppose to take that type of med. Felt better within the hour and the pain went away and has been gone ever since. Lesson learned: I will now try Tylenol the next time I have pain. I still feel okay enough to get some things done in a day which I couldn't do before. I'm not a 100% but anything is better than I use to feel; incapacitated by the pain and stiffness. I am able to do some of my daily chores, and cook and bake once in a while. Food shopping for 4 has been a bit challenging, especially bringing the bags into the house and putting the things away. I'm tired, but I'm sure the weight gain from the Prednisone does not help; addressing that as we speak. Thank God my daughter and son have been able to help me.
I also found that depending what I was eating in a day, would definitely affect how I would feel within the next 48 hours. My blood sugars and liver enzymes are up. I just started a healthy diet and will continue to stay away from sugar, caffeine, and excessive amount of carbs (Ex. breakfast this morning consisted of 1 egg, 1 egg white, peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Had decaf ice coffee with Almond milk). I made this decision after deciding "it just isn't worth it". I will still have a cheat day once in a while, but I'm now very aware of what and how much I eat.
As far as sleep, I have been on a lot better schedule getting at least 7 hours a night during the week and 6 on the weekend. I have two dogs, one of which receives different meds around the clock for seizures and weakness in his hind legs. The other has Pannus (early onset blindness--diagnosed at 5 years old). I believe these things happen for a reason. My daughter also has special needs and is doing well in spite of all her challenges she has faced since after her birth. They are my life. Like the saying goes, "who saves who"? I don't know what I would do without them.
P.S. I want to thank everyone who has given me input regarding my PMR journey. I've been receiving wonderful feedback from many members of the support group and greatly appreciate their helping me to navigate this mess. God bless all of you with many hugs for all your help
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