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Kevzara and Prednisone Tapering before and during Kevzara

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) | Last Active: Nov 20 2:00pm | Replies (39)
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@khmc

I have had PMR and GCA since 03/21 My GCA is in remission ( 2 years blood tests )
PMR is very active. Has anyone switched from Actemra to Kevzara.
I do not take Prednisone since 09/21

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Replies to "I have had PMR and GCA since 03/21 My GCA is in remission ( 2 years..."
DadCue | @dadcue | Mar 10 9:25am

Were you on Actemra for GCA? Did Actemra help with getting GCA into remission?

I was prescribed Actemra for PMR. There is the potential that someday Actemra will completely stop working.

Actemra was FDA approved for GCA in May of 2017. An exception was made to treat my case of PMR "like you would treat a patient with GCA." Even though I was never diagnosed with GCA -- Actemra worked for me. I got completely off Prednisone.

Kevzara wasn't an option in 2019 when I started Actemra. Kevzara was FDA approved for PMR a year ago in February, 2023. My rheumatologist said Kevzara would now be an option for me if Actemra stops working. Yes, it is possible to switch from Actemra to Kevzara.

A sustained remission is the goal of these biologics. Another goal is to prevent the relapses which happen to 50% of patients who are unable to taper off Prednisone in a reasonable period of time.

Sounds to me, if PMR is still very active, you are not in remission. You are still at risk of a GCA relapse. I would think you would be eligible for either Actemra or Kevzara.

As the commercials say, "ask your doctor if this medication would be right for you."

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